[Circadian rhythms - how do they influence our lives?].

CHRONODISRUPTION AND METABOLISM

The increased disruption of natural daily rhythms in modern societies interferes with the temporal coordination of physiological processes in the body. The resulting internal desynchronization favors the development of a range of diseases - including metabolic disorders such as obstipation, obesity, and type-2 diabetes.

CHRONODISRUPTION AND IMMUNITY

The combination of chronodisruption and insomnia impairs the sensitivity and efficiency of the immune defense. Vice versa, a stabilization of the circadian system can confer an increased resilience against many pathogens.

CHRONOMEDICINE

In recent years the field of chronobiology has developed from a basic science to a highly translational discipline. Besides classical chronotherapy, i. e. a temporally optimized drug scheduling, stabilization of the circadian system - by behavioral interventions or chronobiologicals - offers several novel targets for prevention and therapy of many widespread diseases.