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Review
. 2025 Aug 6;26(4):156.
doi: 10.1007/s10522-025-10299-8.

The intricate link between circadian rhythms and aging: can resetting our circadian clock hold the key to longevity?

Najm Ul Hassan  1   2 , William Kojo Smith  1   2 , Hafiza Ayesha Nawaz  1   2 , Han Wang  3   4
Affiliations
Review

The intricate link between circadian rhythms and aging: can resetting our circadian clock hold the key to longevity?

Najm Ul Hassan et al. Biogerontology. .

Abstract

The desire to increase life expectancy, coupled with the decline in biological functions that occurs as we age, represents one of the most significant challenges facing our society. Age-related declines in biological functions contribute to frailty and morbidity, demanding innovative strategies to promote healthy aging. The circadian clock, which controls daily physiological processes, is intricately linked to aging and overall health. Circadian disruptions can lead to metabolic dysfunction, impaired immune responses, increased DNA damage, and elevated disease susceptibility. On the other hand, maintaining robust circadian rhythms through interventions such as regular sleep-wake patterns, time-restricted feeding, and physical activity may extend health span and longevity. The circadian clock affects various molecular pathways associated with aging, including the insulin/IGF, mTOR, and sirtuin signaling pathways. Enhancing circadian rhythms presents a promising avenue for mitigating age-related disorders and promoting healthy aging. This review highlights the potential of circadian clock-based interventions as a transformative strategy to improve the quality of life and extend the healthspan of aging individuals.

Keywords: Aging; Circadian clocks; Healthspan; Lifespan; Longevity; Suprachiasmatic nuclei.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declarations. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests.

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