[Circadian clock and non-visual functions: the role of light in humans]

Abstract

Hormonal secretion, cognitive performance, motor activity, metabolic processes, the sleep wake cycle and, most recently shown, cell division and ADN repair show a 24 h rhythmicity that is driven by the circadian timing system (the biological clock). Their appropriate activity over the 24 h requires appropriate entrainment of the circadian clock, which is achieved through the synchronizing effects of ocular light exposure. The activation of melanopsin-expressing ganglion cells in the retina depends on timing, quality, intensity, and history of light exposure. Inappropriate lighting leads to inappropriate synchronization of the clock, and activation of non-visual functions (mood, wakefulness, cognition, etc.). In turn, a deficit of circadian entrainment to the 24 h is responsible for alterations of a large number of functions, and leads to altered sleep, wake, mood, neurobehavioral processes and cell division, but also to pathologies. The crucial role of the circadian clock and the nature of the non-visual functions activated by light give rise to the concept that light is a biological need fundamental to health. Without an appropriate light hygiene, the clock receives an odd tempo, and it is cacophony!