UT Health San Antonio Research Highlights Liver's Circadian Clock Role in Metabolism
Researchers at UT Health San Antonio have discovered that the liver's internal circadian clock plays a crucial role in determining the timing of protein release, which in turn affects metabolic processes. The study, published in Nature Communications, found that the liver communicates with other body parts through proteins released into the bloodstream, with the timing of these releases being influenced by the liver's molecular clock. This research could inform future studies on metabolism, meal timing, and medication timing. The study focused on proteins known as hepatokines, which are produced by the liver and can affect other tissues. One significant finding was that the liver releases more endostatin, a protein fragment, during the inactive, fasting phase of the daily cycle, influencing fat tissue metabolism. 
