Circadian rhythm of carbohydrate metabolism in health and disease

Abstract

The article presents a review of the main circadian mechanisms regulating carbohydrate metabolism and their role in maintenance of energy homeostasis; the molecular genetic structure of the circadian system is also discussed. The role of adipose tissue and other organs and systems in the maintenance of circadian rhythm of carbohydrate metabolism, both in health and in obesity and diabetes, is highlighted. Particular attention is paid to diurnal rhythms of endocrine factors responsible for metabolic patterns of hormones such as cortisol, growth hormone and melatonin. Gender differences in the circadian regulation of energy and carbohydrate metabolism are also discussed, as well as their changes in different age periods. Article provides detailed review of the mechanisms of glucose utilization, reactivity of the pancreatic islets and peripheral insulin sensitivity shifts at different time periods of the day in people with normal body weight, android and gynoid types of obesity, both in women and men. Protective factors of energy metabolism circadian regulation structure preventing the development of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease in individuals with so-called “metabolically healthy” obesity type are discussed. Article provides a review of various pathways of circadian rhythm disturbances, mechanisms of their development, as well as exogenous and endogenous factors leading to carbohydrate metabolic circadian rhythm misalignment, such as shift work, untiming of natural and artificial lighting, jet lags, sleep disorders. Represented data contribute to a new look at the pathogenesis of obesity and carbohydrate metabolism disorders in various types of obesity in men and women, that provides basis for searching for new effective methods of prevention and treatment of these conditions, elaboration of evidence-based diets and physical activity recommendations, as well as approaches to their medical treatment.