Circadian Health Glossary

Peripheral Circadian Clocks

Peripheral circadian clocks are the timekeepers found in various organs and tissues outside the brain, where the “principal” clock, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), resides. These clocks operate similarly to the SCN, rhythmically influencing physiological activities within individual tissues. The core of their function lies in their ability to keep time autonomously, cycling over roughly a 24-hour period. Importantly, the peripheral tissue clocks are flexible; they readjust their pace through the main clock or even with environmental cues such as light and feeding schedules.

Where Are the Peripheral Circadian Clocks Located?

Each organ or tissue in our bodies hosts a peripheral clock that functions as its own distinct time zone, inherently synchronizing the surrounding processes to its rhythm. The peripheral clock can be found in:
  • Kidneys
  • Liver
  • Lungs
  • Skin
  • Adipose tissue (fat)
These localized rhythms are crucial for the organs’ peak health and functionality. When peripheral circadian clocks are correctly synchronized, they promote harmonious organ collaboration, allowing the body to operate at its best.

Relationship to Health

Disruption of peripheral clocks has been implicated in several health conditions, marked by the body’s inability to execute the right function at the right time. Metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity are prime examples of when the rhythm is disrupted. Irregular sleep patterns and the all-too-common jet lag underscore the connection between our peripheral clocks and holistic health.

The cost of these disturbances isn’t just in feeling out of sorts. It’s a deeper issue that can spill over into other areas, such as immune response and even cancer cell proliferation.

Related Definitions

Circadian Health PERIPHERAL CIRCADIAN CLOCKS sleep