Scientists link metabolism to our internal clocks

The human internal body clock has a lot more to do with your metabolism than previously thought, UCI researchers say.

Researchers discovered a molecular link between the body clock — otherwise known as the circadian rhythm — and metabolism, which may allow for better treatments of diabetes, obesity and other diseases.

The study’s findings can be seen in the new issue of the journal Cell.

The protein — appropriately called CLOCK — that regulates the body’s circadian rhythms, works with another protein called SIRT1 that manages how much energy a cell uses.

The proteins’ cooperation can point to disruptions in circadian rhythms and possibly help scientists find ways to correct them.

A notion the findings support is that a healthy diet and proper sleep habits could help keep the balance between the proteins.

— Daniel Tedford