Role of Circadian Rhythm in Hormonal Cancers

Circadian rhythm is a fundamental biological process that regulates various physiological functions in the body, including the secretion of hormones. The disruption of the circadian rhythm has been associated with the development and progression of several types of cancer, including hormonal cancers. Hormonal cancers are characterized by an abnormal growth of cells that rely on hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone for their growth and proliferation. The disruption of the circadian rhythm can alter the secretion and metabolism of these hormones, leading to imbalances that promote the growth and survival of cancer cells. For example, studies have shown that shift workers who experience disrupted sleep patterns and altered circadian rhythms are at an increased risk of developing breast and prostate cancers, which are both hormonal cancers. Therefore, understanding the role of circadian rhythm in hormonal cancer can provide valuable insights into the development and progression of these diseases and may lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches to prevent or treat them. In this chapter, we will focus on the role of disrupted circadian rhythm in hormonal cancer.