Circadian rhythms in ophthalmic diseases.

Circadian rhythms, governed by the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus, orchestrate a wide range of physiological processes, including those implicated in ophthalmic diseases. These biological rhythms influence both normal ocular function and disease pathogenesis, with many ophthalmic conditions exhibiting altered circadian rhythmicity in frequency or amplitude. Disruptions to circadian homeostasis may exacerbate disease symptoms and negatively affect treatment outcomes, ultimately impairing patients' quality of life. Emerging evidence supports a strong interplay between circadian rhythm dysregulation and the development of ocular disorders. A comprehensive understanding of these temporal disruptions could deepen insights into disease mechanisms and facilitate the development of circadian-based therapeutic strategies. This review examines circadian alterations in ophthalmic diseases-such as dry eye disease, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and cataracts-and discusses potential circadian-regulated interventions and directions for future research.