Execution of the Circadian Negative Feedback Loop in Neurospora Requires the ATP-Dependent Chromatin-Remodeling Enzyme CLOCKSWITCH

One gene, designated clockswitch (csw-1), is required for clock function.

• The transcription factors White Collar-1 (WC-1) and White Collar-2 (WC-2) are involved in regulating the expression of the frq gene in Neurospora.
• WC-2 binds to the frq promoter in a rhythmic pattern, while WC-1 maintains continuous binding.
• Small oscillations in histone acetylation occur throughout the circadian cycle, with significant reduction upon light activation.
• Chromatin rearrangement at the frq promoter is indicated by increased nuclease accessibility.
• Deletion of 19 genes related to chromatin remodeling led to the identification of csw-1 as essential for proper clock function.
• CSW-1 is involved in regulating DNA accessibility at the frq promoter, influencing the transition between active and repressed transcription states.

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