Experimental 'jet lag' inhibits adult neurogenesis and produces long-term cognitive deficits in female hamsters.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Circadian disruptions through frequent transmeridian travel, rotating shift work, and poor sleep hygiene are associated with an array of physical and mental health maladies, including marked deficits in human cognitive function. Despite anecdotal and correlational reports suggesting a negative impact of circadian disruptions on brain function, this possibility has not been experimentally examined.

Methodology/principal findings

In the present study, we investigated whether experimental 'jet lag' (i.e., phase advances of the light:dark cycle) negatively impacts learning and memory and whether any deficits observed are associated with reductions in hippocampal cell proliferation and neurogenesis. Because insults to circadian timing alter circulating glucocorticoid a

SUBMITTER: Gibson EM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2995744 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature