Pharmacological modulators of the circadian clock as potential therapeutic drugs

Mutat Res. 2009 Nov-Dec;680(1-2):109-15.

Abstract

Circadian clocks are molecular time-keeping systems that underlie daily fluctuations in multiple physiological and biochemical processes. It is well recognized now that dysfunctions of the circadian system (both genetically and environmentally induced) are associated with the development of various pathological conditions. Here we describe the application of high throughput screening approach designed to search for small molecules capable of pharmacological modulation of the molecular clock. We provide evidence for the feasibility and value of this approach for both scientific and therapeutic purposes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Circadian Rhythm / drug effects*
  • Circadian Rhythm / physiology
  • Drug Therapy*
  • High-Throughput Screening Assays
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Factors / pharmacology*
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations*
  • Xenobiotics / toxicity*

Substances

  • Immunologic Factors
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations
  • Xenobiotics