Phenotypic plasticity of circadian entrainment under a range of light conditions

The response to a zeitgeber, particularly the light/dark cycle, may vary phenotypically. Phenotypic plasticity can be defined as the ability of one genome to express different phenotypes in response to environmental variation. In this opinion paper, we present some evidence that one of the most prom...

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Published inNeurobiology of sleep and circadian rhythms Vol. 9; p. 100055
Main Authors Moreno, C.R.C., Wright, K., Skene, D.J., Louzada, F.M.
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States Elsevier Inc 01.11.2020
Elsevier
Subjects
Interindividual differences
Light/dark cycle
Natural light
Phenotypic plasticity
Phenotypic plasticity
Light/dark cycle
Interindividual differences
Natural light
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Summary:The response to a zeitgeber, particularly the light/dark cycle, may vary phenotypically. Phenotypic plasticity can be defined as the ability of one genome to express different phenotypes in response to environmental variation. In this opinion paper, we present some evidence that one of the most prominent effects of the introduction of electric light to the everyday life of humans is a significant increase in phenotypic plasticity and differences in interindividual phases of entrainment. We propose that the healthy limits of phenotypic plasticity have been surpassed in contemporary society. •Electric light increased phenotypic plasticity in humans and differences in interindividual phases of entrainment.•Healthy limits of phenotypic plasticity have been surpassed in contemporary society.•The correlation between biological time (DLMO) and behavioral time (MSFsc) is reduced in the population without access to electrical light.
ISSN:2451-9944
2451-9944
DOI:10.1016/j.nbscr.2020.100055