The Effect of Universal Use of Electronic Media on Nerves and Circadian Rhythm: An Overview of the Mechanism of Autonomic Nerves and Neuroendocrine Disorders

Zining Liang

doi:10.54254/2753-8818/2026.HZ35544

Abstract

The development of digital infrastructure has led to the creation of the heads-down generation. Growing up exposed to digital devices from an early age, these individuals engage in long-term frequent electronic media use, which profoundly reshapes the developmental trajectory of their nervous systems. These findings indicate that prolonged electronic media usage can lead to pathological physiological alterations, which are primarily characterised by dysautonomia, reduced sensitivity of the mesolimbic dopamine system and substantial delay in the circadian rhythm. Its main mechanisms are hyperactivation of the Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA) and Nucleus Accumbens (NAc), suppression of melatonin secretion via the intrinsically photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells (ipRGCs) pathway, and destruction of the inhibitory control mechanism of the prefrontal cortex. At the moment, the phenomenon of mental health problems caused by digitalization is becoming more and more common. To maintain human neurophysiological integrity, it is essential to establish a multi-tiered intervention system. Such strategies cover the application of blue light filtering techniques, formulation of healthy digital usage norms, and regular physical activity to improve executive functions.

Keywords: Autonomic Nervous System , Mesolimbic Reward Circuit , Circadian Rhythm , Melanopsin , Sleep Delay , Heart Rate Variability

Article Information

Received: 22 June 2026

Published: 22 July 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54254/2753-8818/2026.HZ35544

Article Type: Research Article

Cite this article

Liang,Z. (2026). The Effect of Universal Use of Electronic Media on Nerves and Circadian Rhythm: An Overview of the Mechanism of Autonomic Nerves and Neuroendocrine Disorders. Theoretical and Natural Science,178,246-251.

Data availability

The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study will be available from the authors upon reasonable request.

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About this Volume

Volume Title: TNS Vol.178

Part of Series: Theoretical and Natural Science

ISSN: 2753-8818 (Print) / 2753-8826 (Online)

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