Life on earth follows distinct rhythms. In addition to circadian rhythms, seasonal rhythms govern essential functions (metabolism, reproduction, immune response) of plants and animals. Also humans show seasonal variation in well-being and health. Seasonal rhythms affect ecosystems with consequences for biodiversity and mankind. Climate change modifies seasonal rhythms to which many species have adapted over thousands of years. Thus, seasonal rhythms are of high biomedical, ecological and social relevance. During the symposium internationally renowned scientists will present novel data and concepts on the mechanisms underlying the regulation of seasonal rhythms and discuss their impact on individuals and societies. 

The symposium is organised by Leopoldina member Prof. Dr Horst-Werner Korf.

Speakers

Towards understanding the mechanism of seasonal time measurement
Prof. Dr. Takashi Yoshimura, Nagoya, Japan

Looking inside the seasonal clock
Prof. Dr. Andrew Loudon, Manchester U.K.

What makes a mammal a seasonal breader?
Prof. Dr. Valerie Simonneaux, Strasbourg, France

Seasonal timekeeping as a neurodevelopmental process
Prof. Dr. David Hazlerigg, Tromsö, Norway

Synchronization of seasonal functions by photoperiodic changes. With or without melatonin
Prof. Dr. Paul Pevet, Strasbourg, France

Signaling pathways to and from the pars tuberalis
Prof. Dr. Horst-Werner Korf, Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Non-24h sleep wake disorder in relation to different light conditions
Prof. Dr. Jo Arendt, Guildford UK

Seasonal variation in human brain function
Prof. Dr. Gilles Vandewalle, Liege, Belgium

Seasonal rhythms in affective disorders
Prof. Dr. Anna Wirz-Justice, Basel, Switzerland

Grafik: Barbara und Helmut Wicht, Frankfurt am Main