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Depression Linked to Altered Activity of Circadian Rhythm Gene

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Depression appears to be associated with a molecular-level disturbance in the body’s 24-hour clock, new research suggests. 

Scientists examined genes that regulate circadian rhythm in people with and without a history of depression. As a group, those with a history of depression had a higher level of activity of the so-called Clock gene, which has a role in regulating circadian rhythm, than did people with no mood disorders.

Higher expression levels of this gene suggest something is amiss in the body’s 24-hour biological and behavioral cycle, which could affect sleep patterns and other physiological functions governed by circadian rhythm. Sleep disturbance is a common symptom of depression.  (more…)

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