Circadian disruptions trigger many chemical changes in the brain and rest of the body. According to a new study, circadian changes are found to be associated in triggering memory loss which may result in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Circadian changes are controlled by the by a part of the brain known as Suprachiasmatic Nucleus (SCN), a group of cells in the hypothalamus that respond to light and dark signals. SCN signal to other parts of the brain that control hormones, body temperature and other vital functions which control wakefulness.
When SCN is activated due to signals received from the optic nerve, it releases cortisol and also sends signals to raise body temperature. SCN also responds to light by delaying the release of other hormones like melatonin, which associated with sleep onset. As these vital functions in the body are related to circadian changes, scientists examined…
