Researchers from two universities created a mathematical model to help explain the resilience of the body's master clock found in the brain. There is a cluster of neurons in the brain that work together to manage the internal rhythms of the body. They also hope the results lead to suggestions on how to improve the internal clock in people who do not have a good internal rhythm.
The reason for this study is because continued disruptions to a person's circadian rhythm can cause diabetes, memory loss, and other issues. Since society has created a situation where many people end up working hours outside of the normal day light hours, it can be be hard on being exposed to light, eating, and sleeping.
The researchers created a mathematical model that looked at the suprachiasmatic nucleus (the internal clock) as a macroscopic or big-picture system made up of an infinite number of neutrons. They looked at the connection between the neutrons in the system and how they manage to have a shared rhythm. It was found that frequent and sustained disruptions to the circadian rhythms can weaken the connection which weakens the shared signals.
The mathematical model indicated that a small number of disruptions can make the connection closer but they are still working on how this relates to the fact that a lot of disruptions can cause a weakening of communications between the neurons. Mathematical modeling allows scientist to study situations that cannot be explored through normal methods. It creates a situation where they can change variables without hurting anyone.
This is interesting because I know from personal experience that jet-lag can really mess up your internal clock especially if you live in a location that does not have nights that get dark. I also find that my sleep patterns take a while to get back to normal. Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear. Have a great day.
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