Biological Clocks - Science Nation

Everything from the mysterious phenomenon of "early morning" heart attacks in humans -- to how tiny nocturnal mammals evade predators -- to the blooming of plants -- is regulated by an organism's internal "biological clock." With support from the National Science Foundation, Jonathan Arnold and his team from the University of Georgia study the genetic underpinnings of these fascinating internal timekeepers using a most unlikely model system: bread mold. Arnold says the mold has plenty in common with both plant and human clocks. And the simplicity of bread mold has allowed this team to produce the first functional model of how a biological clock works. Deeper understanding this time regulator could help other scientists understand aging, artery blockages, jet lag, and why some people can work third shifts effortlessly while for others it is difficult and even dangerous.

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