Identification of novel small molecules targeting core clock proteins to regulate circadian rhythm

The circadian rhythms are physiological, biochemical, and behavioral oscillations that cycle every 24 hours to anticipate the daily changes in the external environment. Disruption of the circadian clock in mammals results in increased susceptibility to different types of diseases such as metabolic, mood and sleep disorders and cancer. To this end, different approaches have been taken to find small molecules that have the potential to correct the disrupted circadian clock. In this review, we highlight the recent developments in identifying novel molecules that regulate the activities of the core clock proteins. Finally, we discuss virtual screening-based methods using the crystal structures of core clock proteins for the discovery of small molecules that regulate the circadian rhythm.