Let's Talk About Circadian Rhythms

Light does much more than help us see - it directly influences our brain, hormones, sleep, and overall health. In this episode, we welcome PhD researcher Carolina Guidolin, who enlightens us about the world of circadian neuroscience and how light regulates our internal clock. Together we discuss why people respond differently to light exposure, how sex and hormones may shape these responses, and why understanding circadian biology may open important new perspectives for women’s health. Beyond the lab, Carolina also shares why science communication and her podcast have become an essential part of her work as a scientist.

Interested in more science communication on circadian neuroscience? Listen in to Carolina's podcast "Light O'Clock": https://www.kyb.tuebingen.mpg.de/lightoclock

If you would like to get in touch with Carolina, you can find her here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinaguidolin/

... her lab here: https://www.tscnlab.org/

... or reach her at: carolina.guidolin@tuebingen.mpg.de

Timestamps:

00:26 Introduction to our guest Carolina Guidolin

02:04 What are circadian rhythms?

04:41 Relevance of circadian rhythms for mental health

06:03 Non-visual effects of light

09:05 What is melatonin and what role does it play?

13:07 Melatonin suppression and its effects on brain and body