The mammalian circadian system is a hierarchically organized system, which controls a
24-h periodicity in a wide variety of body and brain functions and physiological processes. There
is increasing evidence that the circadian system modulates the complex multistep process of adult
neurogenesis, which is crucial for brain plasticity. This modulatory effect may be exercised via
rhythmic systemic factors including neurotransmitters, hormones and neurotrophic factors as well as
rhythmic behavior and physiology or via intrinsic factors within the neural progenitor cells such as the
redox state and clock genes/molecular clockwork. In this review, we discuss the role of the circadian
system for adult neurogenesis at both the systemic and the cellular levels. Better understanding of
the role of the circadian system in modulation of adult neurogenesis can help develop new treatment
strategies to improve the cognitive deterioration associated with chronodisruption due to detrimental
light regimes or neurodegenerative diseases. CLICK TO REVIEW
Keywords: circadian system; suprachiasmatic nucleus; molecular clockwork; clock genes; adult
neurogenesis; hippocampus; redox state; reactive oxygen species; melatonin; corticosterone;
light; neurodegeneration