Basic research on circadian disruption using animal and human organoid models: a review

Circadian rhythms are intrinsic biological processes that regulate a wide range of physiological functions, aligning them with the 24-hour day-night cycle. Animal models play a pivotal role in elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying circadian rhythms and their disruption, providing valuable insights into translational approaches for managing circadian-related disorders. This review explores the strengths and limitations of various animal models, including rodents, zebrafish, and non-human primates, highlighting their contributions to understanding circadian regulation and their translational relevance to human health. We discuss innovative methodologies, such as multi-omics, systems biology, and gene editing that enhance the utility of these models, as well as the emerging role of humanized animal models and organoids in bridging the gap between preclinical research and clinical application. Additionally, we examine the potential of circadian animal models to inform chronotherapeutic strategies, offering new perspectives on optimizing treatment timing to improve patient outcomes.