Effects of Dim Light at Night and Di-(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate on Locomotor Rhythms and Feeding Behavior

Abstract

The circadian system is an organism’s internal biological clock, responsible for regulating physical and behavioral activities that follow a daily 24-hour cycle such as sleep patterns, feeding habits, and hormone release. These rhythms are controlled by the suprachiasmatic nucleus, housed in the brain’s hypothalamus.

Circadian disruption occurs due to an interruption in the daily cycle. In humans, circadian disruption is caused by several factors, including light at night, shift work, and jet-lag. This creates problems in the synchronization of behavioral and physical activities and can lead to long-term health conditions. Furthermore, di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a ubiquitous chemical that has been shown to induce endocrine disruption, which may further modify circadian disruption.

This study aims to test the connection between circadian and endocrine disruption. We expect to find abnormal locomotor activity and feeding behavior changes in both the circadian and endocrine disrupted groups. In the combined disruption group, we expect to see an additive effect of the two models of disruption.