The circadian clock is crucial in many biological processes including energy balance. Long-term circadian disruptions are associated with premature mortality, obesity, impaired glucose tolerance, diabetes, psychiatric disorders, anxiety, depression, and cancer progression. Short-term disruptions are associated with susceptibility to illness, fatigue, and loss of concentration, all of which effect quality of life, productivity, and lifespan.
Therefore, understanding how short- and long-term circadian disruptions affect the physiology of humans and animals will help to understand the etiology and progression of diseases as well as day-to-day well-being.
