Is the Circadian Rhythm Dysregulation a Core Pathogenetic Mechanism of Bipolar Disorder? / 신경정신의학

ABSTRACT

Circadian rhythm is a periodic and continuous change in physiological, behavioral, and mental characteristics that occurs in most organisms on the Earth, because the Earth rotates in a 24-hour cycle. The circadian system regulates daily rhythms of physiology and behavior, such as the sleep/wake cycle, body temperature, hormonal secretion, and mood. The influence of circadian rhythm is very powerful, but limited research has addressed its effects. However, many recent studies have shown that circadian dysregulation may play an important role in the pathogenesis of bipolar disorder. This review study examined current and noteworthy studies, including the authors' own works, and proposes a possible clinical application of bipolar disorder based on evidence that circadian rhythm dysregulation in bipolar disorder may be a key pathogenetic mechanism.