Jet lag: Japanese study finds compound that may reset the body clock

A Japanese research team reported in PNAS that an oral compound called Mic-628 shifted the circadian clock forward in mice; researchers say more mouse and human studies are needed to confirm effectiveness.

Researchers in Japan reported an oral compound called Mic-628 that reset the body clock forward in mouse experiments. The work was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). The finding is described as potentially relevant for people who travel across time zones and for night-shift workers. Health sources cited in the report note that the circadian rhythm governs daily sleep and wake cycles and that jet lag can produce daytime sleepiness and mood and digestive changes. Key findings: - A Japanese research team identified an oral compound named Mic-628 that shifted the circadian clock forward in mice. - The study results were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). - The researchers report the finding as potentially useful for frequent travelers and night-shift workers. - The article cites the Mayo Clinic's description of jet lag as a misalignment of the circadian rhythm with symptoms such as daytime sleepiness and mood and digestive issues. - The team and the article state that additional mouse studies and human trials are needed to confirm effectiveness. Summary: If subsequent studies confirm the mouse findings, the compound may point to a new way to shift circadian timing for people affected by time-zone changes or shift work. Undetermined at this time.