Roles of circadian clocks in cancer pathogenesis and treatment

Circadian clocks are ubiquitous timing mechanisms that generate approximately 24-h rhythms in cellular and bodily functions across nearly all living species. These internal clock systems enable living organisms to anticipate and respond to daily changes in their environment in a timely manner, optimizing temporal physiology and behaviors. Dysregulation of circadian rhythms by genetic and environmental risk factors increases susceptibility to multiple diseases, particularly cancers. A growing number of studies have revealed dynamic crosstalk between circadian clocks and cancer pathways, providing mechanistic insights into the therapeutic utility of circadian rhythms in cancer treatment. This review will discuss the roles of circadian rhythms in cancer pathogenesis, highlighting the recent advances in chronotherapeutic approaches for improved cancer treatment. Cancer: Reviewing the role of circadian rhythm Therapies that reset the body's circadian clock could prove valuable in treating multiple cancers. Chronic disruption to circadian rhythm by genetic and environmental factors such as frequent jet lag is associated with increased susceptibility to diseases, particularly cancer. Yool Lee at Washington State University in Spokane, USA, reviewed understanding of clock dysregulation in cancers and the promising application of novel 'chronotherapies'. Disruption to the molecular crosstalk between clock mechanisms and cell cycles (including cell death and immune pathways) can allow cancer cells to take hold. Rhythm disruption also modulates the activity of tumor suppressors and cancer-promoting genes, and can even trigger anti-cancer drug resistance. Training the clock via light therapy, exercise, and administering chemotherapy drugs at specific times of day may prove valuable, while drugs that affect the circadian clock also show promise.

Automated summary

Circadian clocks play a crucial role in optimizing physiological functions and behaviors in response to daily environmental changes, but dysregulation can increase susceptibility to diseases, especially cancer. Recent studies have highlighted the dynamic crosstalk between circadian clocks and cancer pathways, offering new insights into potential therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.