Review Paper:
Role of Circadian
Disruptions and Epigenetic Modifications in Cancer and Neuro Developmental Disorders
Nadiminti Venkata Murali, Ganta Sriteja, Mathangi Sudheendra Babu, Kanikaram Sunita
and Gadde Bhanu Prasad
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 20(8); 289-297;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/208rjbt2890297; (2025)
Abstract
Circadian rhythms are physiological processes which regulate the sleep-wake cycle,
metabolism and hormonal functions driven by clock genes. Suprachiasmatic nucleus
(SCN), located in the anterior hypothalamus, regulates the mammalian circadian clock.
Disruptions in circadian rhythms are associated with various metabolic disorders,
neurodevelopmental conditions and cancers. Melatonin is crucial for synchronizing
circadian rhythms, it maintains physiological homeostasis and particularly stabilizing
the circadian clock under conditions of inflammation and stress. Circadian rhythms
misalignments such as sleep disturbances and melatonin deficiencies lead to the
pathogenesis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Time restricting feeding (TRF) is an effective strategy for improving metabolic
health and in reducing obesity related risks. Epigenetic regulation, including DNA
methylation and histone modifications influence the circadian machinery, with dysregulation
of these processes contributing to cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders. Therapeutic
strategies targeting circadian rhythm alignment, such as melatonin supplementation
and epigenetic modifications, offer promising avenues for reducing circadian related
pathologies including metabolic syndrome, ASD and cancer.
