Circadian Mechanisms For Sex Differences In Shift Work Tolerance
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$562,002.00
Summary
It is well-established that women respond more poorly than men to shift work schedules, having more health complaints, more drowsiness and more accidents at work than men. The physiological cause of this sex difference is not known. Our research suggests that differences in the circadian rhythms of women and men may promote shift work intolerance in women. This study is designed to examine sex differences in the effect of office-level light on the biological clock during a simulated night shift.
Circadian Rhythm Disruption And Metabolic Function
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$626,018.00
Summary
Shiftwork is an under-researched risk factor for obesity and diabetes. Because shiftwork disrupts hormonal and sleep rhythmicity, eating patterns and light exposure, abnormal rhythmicity may be a causal factor in metabolic disease. Direct evidence for the link is lacking and the underlying mechanisms responsible are unknown. This project aims to understand how shiftwork may lead to diabetes and obesity, knowledge essential for the design and testing of potential interventions.