Human circadian rhythm, the mental, behavioral and physical changes in that follow a 24-hour cycle are not well understood by scientists, but it is by Salmonella. A recent study looked at how the circadian clock modulates inflammatory response during Salmonella infection.
Researchers found that, compared with other times of the day, Salmonella in mice were able to colonize to a higher level during the early rest period. And, once established, disrupted the circadian clock to establish a better hold.
Every year, about 42,000 Americans are diagnosed with Salmonella infections, but because many cases are not reported the actual number of infections is likely 29 times higher, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Young children, seniors and those with compromise immune systems are most at risk for salmonellosis. Children under five are diagnosed at a higher rate than ll other ages groups, according to the CDC.
Symptoms of a Salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps that develop 12 to 72 hours after infection and last four to seven days. Some people may experience diarrhea that is bloody, along with nausea. Some infections can be serious or even life-threatening. And, for a small number of people, long-term effects can develop including reactive arthritis, which is characterized by pain in the joints and eyes that can last for weeks or months, as well as high blood pressure and irritable bowel syndrome.
Researchers hope the study’s findings may lead to a better understanding of to treat Salmonella. The study was published in a May edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Science
