BMC Neurology is calling for submissions to a new Collection on sleep physiology and circadian rhythms. It aims to highlight recent advances to our understanding of sleep and circadian rhythms, especially in the context of disease development and management.
Circadian rhythm, as a controller of the sleep-wake cycle and other biological processes, as well as circadian melatonin and sleep pressure, play vital roles in human health and wellbeing, and disruptions to their stability can contribute to the development of a wide range of diseases and the deterioration of mental health. Understanding the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that link sleep and circadian rhythms to disease development and progression is essential for formulating effective prevention and treatment strategies.
For example, the identification of specific genetic and epigenetic markers associated with sleep and circadian rhythms could allow for early detection of individuals at risk of developing certain diseases, while the development of targeted therapies that modify circadian rhythms or the production of circadian melatonin could help to prevent or mitigate disease progression. This Collection seeks to highlight innovative new approaches to this sleep-centric method of disease detection, prevention, and treatment.
Topics that will be covered in this Collection include but are not limited to:
• The role of sleep, circadian rhythms, and sleep-associated melatonin in neurological and metabolic diseases
• The impact of sleep pressure and local sleep on the pathophysiology of common disorders
• The relationship between sleep, circadian rhythms, circadian melatonin and mental health disorders
• Sleep disorders and their impact on the development of common diseases
• Novel approaches to diagnosing and treating diseases stemming from sleep and circadian rhythm disruptions
• Sleep in disorders of consciousness
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