Prof. Henrik Oster and his team at the Institute of Neurobiology at the University of Lübeck study how the body’s internal clocks affect health, metabolism and the effectiveness of medication. Each organ follows its own daily rhythm, which must remain coordinated with the central clock in the brain.

Research in circadian medicine could make existing treatments more effective. Certain cholesterol-lowering drugs and asthma medications, for example, may work differently depending on the time of day. Vaccinations, sleep and the timing of food intake are also influenced by the body’s biological rhythms.

A particular focus is on adolescents. During puberty, the body clock naturally shifts towards later sleeping and waking times. Early school schedules and smartphone use can therefore contribute to sleep deprivation and so-called “social jetlag”. This has been associated with reduced concentration, poorer academic performance and a higher risk of addictive behaviour.

In the long term, the researchers aim to develop practical recommendations for timing treatments more effectively and improving medical care.

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