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Circadian rhythms

Synonym(s)

  • circadian process
  • daily biorhythm
  • diurnal rhythm
  • nyctohemeral rhythm

Definition(s)

The regular recurrence, in cycles of about 24 hours, of biological processes or activities, such as sensitivity to drugs and stimuli, hormone secretion, sleeping, feeding, etc. This rhythm seems to be set by a 'biological clock' which seems to be set by recurring daylight and darkness.

Definition from: MeSH via Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the National Library of Medicine

Rhythmic recurrences of certain phenomena in living organisms occurring at about the same time of day, i.e., on a 24 hour cycle.

Definition from: CRISP Thesaurus via Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the National Library of Medicine

See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

 
Published: May 13, 2013