Impact of Circadian Nuclear Receptor REV-ERBα on Midbrain Dopamine Production and Mood Regulation

Genetic deletion of the Rev-erbα gene in mice led to mania-like behavior and a central hyperdopaminergic state.

• The circadian nuclear receptor REV-ERBα is associated with bipolar disorder and influences mood-related behavior.
• Inhibition of REV-ERBα in the ventral midbrain resulted in increased dopamine production.
• REV-ERBα represses the transcription of the tyrosine hydroxylase gene, which is essential for dopamine production.
• The mechanism involves competition with another nuclear receptor, NURR1, which is important for dopaminergic neuron function.
• These findings indicate a link between circadian rhythms and mood regulation.

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