Circadian Rhythm Hack May Shield Brains from Alzheimer's Damage

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have discovered that altering the body's natural rhythm can help protect the brain from Alzheimer's damage. According to a study published in Nature Aging, the researchers found that by turning off a circadian protein in mice, they were able to raise levels of a brain-protective molecule called NAD and reduce the buildup of a protein called tau, which is associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study, led by Erik Musiek, MD, PhD, involved interfering with the communication between the body's internal clock and the brain in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. The researchers found that this disruption boosted levels of NAD, a molecule that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy brain function. They also observed a significant reduction in tau buildup, which is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Musiek and his team believe that their findings suggest that adjusting the body's clock may one day help prevent neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease. "Our study provides evidence that the circadian system plays a critical role in maintaining healthy brain function and that disrupting this system may have therapeutic potential for Alzheimer's disease," Musiek said in a statement. The researchers' findings have significant implications for our understanding of Alzheimer's disease and the role of the circadian system in maintaining brain health. Alzheimer's disease is a complex condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and there is currently no cure. However, researchers have been exploring various potential treatments, including those that target the circadian system. The study's findings build on previous research that has shown that the circadian system plays a critical role in regulating various physiological processes, including sleep-wake cycles, metabolism, and hormone secretion. The researchers believe that their findings could have broader implications for our understanding of the relationship between the body's internal clock and overall health. While the study's findings are promising, more research is needed to fully understand the potential therapeutic benefits of disrupting the communication between the body's internal clock and the brain. However, the study's authors are optimistic about the potential for their findings to inform the development of new treatments for Alzheimer's disease. The study was published in the journal Nature Aging on November 1, 2025. Further research is underway to explore the potential therapeutic benefits of disrupting the circadian system in Alzheimer's disease.