The genetic basis of circadian behavior

The mammalian circadian pacemaker in the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) regulates peripheral clocks throughout the body.

• An endogenous timing system aligns physiology and behavior with day-night cycles.
• The SCN controls peripheral clocks via both hormonal and nerve signals.
• Cellular mechanisms involve interwoven feedback loops of gene expression and protein activity.
• Certain components of these molecular clocks may vary in their functions across different tissues.
• The rhythmicity of these components is regulated differently by the SCN.

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