生物時計に対する光の作用機構(<特集>光の生物時計機構への作用とその応用)

概要

論文の詳細を見る
Circadian rhythm governs many physiological functions in human. This rhythm is regulated by environmental light. Ten years have passed since the novel subtype of retinal ganglion cell was identified as a photoreceptor which mediates photoentrainment, i. e., the regulation of circadian rhythm by light in retina. The author and colleagues named this cell the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell (ipRGC). This review article introduces the new findings on the mechanism of photoreception by ipRGC and local circuits among ipRGC and other retinal neurons. The industrial standards for circadian lighting should be based on the photoresponsive properties of human ipRGC. Although the draft of standard is currently based on the results by monochromatic light stimulation, new findings recommend the more elaborated standard based on the results by polychromatic light stimulation. Moreover, two studies suggest that Japanese authentic standards should be required for lighting market in Japan.
2012-10-01