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Abstract
Knocking down Otx2 and Crx together resulted in a significant reduction in melatonin-producing enzyme levels and melatonin release.
- OTX2 and CRX are present exclusively in melatonin-producing cells of the rat pineal gland.
- Targeted reduction of Otx2 decreased the expression of enzymes that synthesize melatonin.
- A similar decrease in melatonin synthesis was observed with the reduction of Crx.
- Simultaneous knockdown of both Otx2 and Crx led to an even greater reduction in melatonin synthesis and release.
- These findings indicate that Otx2 and Crx may control the synthesis of melatonin in the mature pineal gland.
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