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Currently Playing: Torpor, Circadin Rhythms and the AhR: Obesity Explained, Episode 4

Circadian rhythms have a dramatic effect on body weight. They are controlled by day length and light intensity but also by the schedule you keep. Furthermore, circadian rhythms can be completely shut down by the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR). Here I provide evidence that the AhR is a master regulator of torpor, the alternative mammalian metabolic state that favors fat storage. Fattening hibernators and obese humans have in common an elevated level of kynurenine, which activates the AhR. The activated AhR blunts circadian rhythms, favoring fat storage in part via down regulation of NAMPT and NAD+ levels. The references to this video can be found at the blog post on fireinabottle.net: https://fireinabottle.net/torpor-circadin-rhythms-and-the-ahr-obesity-explained-episode-4/