New research is helping us to understand how our bodies see and interpret light. In the human brain, there’s a master clock called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) which serves to keep the entire body on time. It uses light as a signal. For example, light exposure tells it to produce less sleep-inducing melatonin. Recently, researchers from the University of Washington have discovered a new cell type that is especially sensitive to light. The hope is this cell opens the door for more therapeutic uses of light.
Key Takeaways:
- The suprachiasmatic nucleus in the brain receives light signals and turns them into our body clock adjustment.
- This new research details how our body clock reacts to a spectrum of colors and not just blue light.
- This research will help improve treatments for disorders like Seasonal Affective Disorder which have typically just been treated with blue light only.
“As daylight saving time ends, the effect of light in our daily lives shines bright”
