K.V. Vitkute, MSc

Research interests

My PhD project at the University of Groningen is a part of a National BioClock Consortium, that aims “to preserve and restore the health of the biological clock, ultimately benefiting not only our own health and well-being, but also the world around us.” My research is focused on the effects of artificial light on animal behavior, physiology, and brain activity.

In contrast to dynamic natural illumination that humans have evolved with, artificial lights are static and do not share the same intensity, spectral or temporal properties. These inconsistencies may affect our circadian rhythms and sleep, which can further influence our health and well-being.

To elucidate the diverse consequences of artificial light, we expose diurnal and nocturnal mammals to varying levels of artificial light, either during the dark or the light phase of the circadian cycle. We record the behavioral and physiological changes in circadian activity and sleep architecture with miniature electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyogram (EMG), and brain temperature dataloggers. After analyzing the effects, we will then study the molecular mechanisms responsible for the observed changes. This research will give important insights into the outcomes of artificial light exposure and the complex neuronal processes involved.