NewsScienceNow, academics have explained for the first time the mystery of why it is so replenishing to be out like a light

Wednesday, 15th January 2020, 9:39 pm

Biologists at the University of Manchester have studied mice to show how the diurnal rhythm, or body clock, can boost the ability to maintain important cell structures during the day. It is hoped the study could one day help unlock some of the mysteries of ageing.

Professor Karl Kadler, lead author of a report published in Nature Cell Biology, said: Knowing this could have implications on understanding our biology at its most fundamental level. It might give us some deeper insight into how wounds heal, or how we age.

Turning back the clock

The universitys discovery throws a light on the bodys extracellular matrix, which provides structural and biochemical support to cells in the form of connective tissue such as bone, skin, tendon and cartilage.

The researchers have discovered the body has two types of fibrils rope-like structures of collagen that are woven by the cells to form tissues.

Thicker fibrils are permanent and stay with us throughout our lives, unchanged from the age of 17. But thinner fibrils break as the body is subjected to the rigours of the day and replenishing when we get a good rest at night.

Its intuitive to think our matrix should be worn down by wear and tear, but it isnt and now we know why. Our body clock makes an element which can be replenished, Professor Kadler said.

Sleep patterns

Researchers at the same university found last year that blue light might not be as disruptive to sleep patterns as previously thought and using cooler lighting in the evening and bright warmer lights in the day may be more beneficial.

Collagen provides the body with structure and is our most abundant protein, ensuring the integrity, elasticity and strength of the bodys connective tissue, Professor Kadler said.

Its intuitive to think our matrix should be worn down by wear and tear, but it isnt and now we know why. Our body clock makes an element which can be replenished.

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Good night's sleep has power to turn back clock, and study could 'unlock mysteries of ageing' - inews