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They found that if the gene BMAL1, a key component of the body's molecular clock, is deactivated, the body clock stops working and BP, blood glucose levels and metabolism are altered.

The results indicate that altered circadian regulation may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

It is already known that heart attacks and strokes are more common in the early hours.

The findings could lead to changes in how BP is managed, as the body's response to drugs could also be linked to the body's internal clock.

The researchers used genetic studies in rat models and humans to demonstrate the link between changes in the gene and BP.

Lead researcher Professor Dominique Gauguier, from the University of Oxford, said: 'The regulation of circadian rhythm is central to a wide range of biological processes and this type of genetic study should be extended to other disease areas.'