The modern world is keeping us awake, and our livers are paying the price. But is artificial light really to blame? A research team in Bochum, Germany, is delving into a fascinating yet complex issue: the impact of our 24/7 lifestyle on liver health.
According to Professor Mustafa Özçürümez, artificial light disrupts our natural rhythms, allowing us to turn night into day. This lifestyle, where we stay awake late, eat at odd hours, and primarily stay indoors, is throwing our metabolism off balance. Over time, this can lead to a serious condition known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
But here's where it gets controversial: Professor Özçürümez and his team are exploring the intricate connections between our internal clock and liver health. They argue that disregarding our natural circadian rhythms can have severe consequences. The team is conducting experiments to understand the liver's response to this modern-day dilemma.
One key player in this scenario is melatonin, a hormone that responds to darkness, inducing sleepiness. However, the twist is, artificial blue light from screens and streetlights prevents true darkness, hindering melatonin production. Even a mere ten lux, the light of a full moon, can disrupt this natural process.
The research team is investigating various factors, including genetic predisposition, that influence our internal clock. They are studying the daily routines of participants with and without fatty liver disease, monitoring blood pressure, body temperature, and melatonin levels. Participants also provide insights into their daily activities and light exposure through questionnaires and light sensors.
To further understand liver processes, the researchers have developed an innovative method to study pig livers outside the body, offering a unique glimpse into metabolic functions.
For a deeper dive into this intriguing research, the scientific journal Rubin provides a comprehensive article, offering insights into the team's findings and future plans.
The question remains: Is our modern lifestyle an enemy to our health? Are we sacrificing our well-being for the sake of convenience and productivity? Share your thoughts and join the discussion on this captivating topic.
