Circadian control of metabolism and pathological consequences of clock perturbations

Most organisms have developed an autonomous time-keeping system that generates self-sustained daily fluctuations in behavior and physiological processes. These biological clocks are reset every day by light to adjust physiology to the day/night cycle generated by the rotation of the Earth. Clocks present in organs involved in glucose and lipid metabolism such as the liver, muscle, adipose tissue and pancreas are also reset by feeding cues which permits the local integration of systemic and nutritional signals to switch fuel production and utilization according to the feeding/fasting cycle. However, derangements in this finely tuned system can be induced by extended light exposure, 24/7 food availability and altered food intake patterns, repeated jet-lag and shift-working, promoting metabolic imbalances ranging from body weight gain to the development of insulin resistance and liver diseases. Here, we review recent findings on the link between the clock and metabolic fluxes to maintain whole-body homeostasis, and what clock disruption in mice has revealed about the role of the clock in metabolic regulation. •Lifestyles changes such as extended light exposure, 24/7 food availability and shift-working alter the clock.•Clock disturbances promote metabolic imbalances including obesity, insulin resistance and liver diseases.•Future studies are needed to determine whether clock modulation either through pharmacological intervention or timed nutritional approaches may ameliorate metabolic diseases and promote health in humans.