The study explores alternative ~12-h ultradian rhythms in gene expression in humans and their potential biological significance. By analyzing data from three healthy males, the researchers uncovered inter-individual variability in the number and periods of genes cycling at 10-14-h intervals, distinct from traditional circadian rhythms. The study suggests that ~12-h rhythms are not mathematical artifacts but reflect biologically relevant processes related to mRNA and protein metabolism. Enrichment analysis indicates a potential link to neurogenerative diseases and metabolic syndromes. The regulatory mechanisms of these ~12-h rhythms remain unclear, opening up avenues for further research in gene expression patterns in human white blood cells.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s44323-024-00005-1