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Current Diabetes Reports
Published in: Current Diabetes Reports 12/2018

Open Access 01-12-2018 | Lifestyle Management to Reduce Diabetes/Cardiovascular Risk (B Conway and H Keenan, Section Editors)

A Review of Data of Findings on Night Shift Work and the Development of DM and CVD Events: a Synthesis of the Proposed Molecular Mechanisms

Authors: S. Strohmaier, E. E. Devore, Y. Zhang, E. S. Schernhammer

Published in: Current Diabetes Reports | Issue 12/2018

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Night shift work has become highly prevalent in our 24/7 societies, with up to 18% of the US work force working alternate shift schedules. However, studies indicate that there may be adverse health effects of chronic night work across diverse populations. These effects are likely due to misalignment of the circadian system with work schedules, mediated by the system’s primary marker melatonin as well as other downstream molecules.

Recent Findings

Melatonin has multiple biologic actions that are relevant to cardiometabolic disease, including modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and (via the melatonin receptor) vasoconstriction. Behavioral traits, such as chronotype and meal timing, have recently been shown to interact with the effects of night work on cardiometabolic health.

Summary

Together with recent findings suggesting a role for circadian genes in cardiometabolic risk, the interactions of night shift work and behavioral traits are likely to facilitate novel treatment and prevention approaches for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, incorporating aspects of clock and timing.
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Metadata
Title
A Review of Data of Findings on Night Shift Work and the Development of DM and CVD Events: a Synthesis of the Proposed Molecular Mechanisms
Authors
S. Strohmaier
E. E. Devore
Y. Zhang
E. S. Schernhammer
Publication date
01-12-2018
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Diabetes Reports / Issue 12/2018
Print ISSN: 1534-4827
Electronic ISSN: 1539-0829
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-018-1102-5

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