Circadian Rhythm and Psychiatric Features in Wolfram Syndrome: Toward Chrono Diagnosis and Chronotherapy.

Background/

Objectives

Wolfram syndrome is a rare neurodegenerative disorder primarily known for its multisystemic manifestations. Although classically associated with diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, optic atrophy, and deafness, emerging evidence suggests a consistent pattern of executive dysfunction in many affected individuals.

Methods

Based on findings from a scoping review and results obtained through the Dysexecutive Questionnaire in a Spanish patient cohort, we propose that WFS1 gene mutations-via chronic endoplasmic reticulum stress-disrupt serotonergic and cholinergic neurotransmission, leading to impairments in planning, inhibition, and emotional regulation.

Results

Importantly, recent studies have highlighted the interplay between WFS1-related molecular dysfunction and circadian regulation. Given the role of the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial signaling in circadian homeostasis, and the frequent sleep disturbances observed in patients with Wolfram syndrome, we hypothesize that circadian dysregulation may contribute to the neurobehavioral phenotype.

Conclusions

This essay explores neuropsychological foundations of executive dysfunction in WS, and frames the current evidence as hypothesis-generating rather than causal; executive difficulties may be a salient clinical feature and merit consideration in routine care. Furthermore, the potential involvement of circadian mechanisms opens new avenues for future research and therapeutic approaches. Because circadian disruption is linked to psychiatric symptoms and fatigue, emphasizing diurnal patterns, sleep-wake timing, and chronotype may guide circadian-informed assessment.