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Chronobiological Phase Locking

Meaning

Chronobiological Phase Locking is the clinical state where the body’s internal biological rhythms, or circadian oscillators, are perfectly synchronized and precisely aligned with external environmental cues, particularly the light-dark cycle. This optimal alignment ensures that the timing of essential physiological events, such as hormone secretion, body temperature fluctuations, and sleep-wake cycles, occurs at their genetically programmed times. Achieving strong phase locking is critical for metabolic efficiency, cognitive performance, and restorative sleep. Desynchronization, often termed ‘circadian misalignment,’ is linked to various health detriments.