Intersection of sex and circadian biology

Abstract

The circadian clock aligns behavior and physiology with environmental rhythms, and its disruption has been associated with increased risk of metabolic and neurological diseases. This review examines the emerging trends and mounting evidence demonstrating that there are sex-specific differences in circadian physiology relevant to health. Preclinical and clinical studies indicate that females exhibit greater circadian resilience, robust transcriptional rhythms, and resistance to clock perturbation compared to males. These influences affect susceptibility to metabolic conditions and responses to circadian perturbations like shift work. Notably, sex differences in response to alcohol consumption and cancer chronotherapy have emerged as fields of significant interest. Future research must consider both sexes to refine existing interventions and uncover the complex mechanisms of circadian physiology for more inclusive therapeutic strategies.