Methods of Chronobiometric Analysis of Mitochondrial Function

The methodical hints are given on the basis of the inferential Halberg’s cosinor regression for obtaining the optimal information from experimental data organized in the frame of the Halberg’s circa(semi)dian design. First, the population of experimental animals has to be defined exactly to secure its homogeneity. Second, a random choice of separate animals must be kept. Third, optimal sampling times have to be settled and realized. Fourth, it is recommended to transform the measured data into the Mesor RelatedValues (MRV), to be able to compare mutually the results from various variables. Fifth, the best way of expressing the results for consecutive medical considerations and decisions is a graph of the approximating function, including confidence and tolerance corridors. Critically is mentioned the common practice to use standard errors or deviations (representing only 50–68% confidence or tolerance) and p-value, falsely overestimating the impression of an effect. Sixth, the same principles should be applied to differences between measurements – a relatively new idea. The evaluation of global effect can be misleading. These modes of presentation are illustrated on coenzymes Q₉ and Q₁₀, as well as on the oxidative phosphorylation cascade for Complex I using data from control and diabetic rats.