life-sciences

Circadian Biology & Chronobiology

The science of biological clocks — molecular clock gene oscillations, phase response curves, jet lag recovery dynamics, light entrainment pathways, and social jet lag effects on health and performance.

circadian rhythmchronobiologyclock genesjet lagmelatoninsleeplight entrainmentsocial jet lag

Circadian biology studies the ~24-hour oscillations that govern nearly every physiological process in living organisms. From the molecular feedback loops of CLOCK and BMAL1 proteins to the behavioral rhythms of sleep and wakefulness, these internal timekeepers synchronize our biology with the solar day. Disruption of circadian rhythms is linked to metabolic disease, cancer, mood disorders, and impaired cognitive performance.

These simulations let you explore the transcription-translation feedback loops driving clock gene oscillations, map phase response curves to light pulses, model jet lag recovery across time zones, visualize how light intensity and timing entrain the master clock, and quantify the health impact of social jet lag — all built on peer-reviewed chronobiology models.

5 interactive simulations

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Clock Gene Network Oscillator

Simulate the molecular clock gene feedback loop — explore how CLOCK/BMAL1 activation, PER/CRY inhibition, and degradation rates generate ~24-hour oscillations

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Jet Lag Recovery Model

Simulate jet lag recovery dynamics — model how time zone shifts, travel direction, light exposure, and individual chronotype affect circadian re-entrainment speed

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Light Entrainment & Zeitgeber Strength

Simulate circadian entrainment to the light-dark cycle — explore how photoperiod, light intensity, spectral composition, and intrinsic period determine phase angle and stability

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Phase Response Curve (PRC)

Simulate the circadian phase response curve to light pulses — explore how timing, intensity, and duration of light exposure advance or delay the biological clock

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Social Jet Lag & Health Impact

Simulate social jet lag — quantify the mismatch between biological and social clocks, and explore its effects on metabolic health, cognitive performance, and disease risk