What role does CLOCK play in allergy?

CLOCK is a core circadian gene that regulates the body's internal clock. Circadian rhythms influence immune function, including allergic responses. Disruption of CLOCK can alter mast cell activity and histamine release, potentially affecting allergy severity. Some studies have linked CLOCK polymorphisms to asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis, but effect sizes are small and findings inconsistent. The evidence is primarily mechanistic and from animal models; human studies are limited and often underpowered. Consumer DNA tests claiming to predict allergy risk based on CLOCK variants lack clinical validity and are not recommended. Managing allergies through sleep hygiene, stress reduction, and conventional treatments remains more evidence-based.