Professor and Chair, Neuroscience UT Southwestern Medical Center Dallas, Texas, United States
We live on a planet with a 24-hour day-night cycle that determines the energetic cycle of essentially all forms of life. Living systems have evolved circadian clocks to predict the 24-hour passage of time. My laboratory discovered the first gene that controls circadian rhythms in mouse and humans, known as the “Clock” gene. This gene acts as the primary regulator of circadian behavior and physiology in mammals. In addition, the circadian clock gene network interacts directly with many other pathways in the cell. We have found that time restriction and circadian alignment of feeding are critical factors for extension of lifespan under caloric restriction. Because the circadian gene network is a conserved regulator of aging pathways, we are testing whether enhancing clocks promote lifespan.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participant will be able to learn about the core molecular mechanism of the circadian clock in mammals.
Upon completion, participant will be able to learn how the clock controls metabolism and vis-versa.
Upon completion, participant will be able to learn how the circadian clock contributes to the extension of lifespan in mice.
