Toward a detailed computational model for the mammalian circadian clock

The computational model predicts sustained circadian oscillations in continuous darkness for specific gene interactions.

• The model incorporates key genes involved in the mammalian circadian clock, including Per, Cry, Bmal1, Clock, and Rev-Erb alpha.
• Sustained oscillations occur in the model, reflecting patterns seen in the suprachiasmatic nuclei.
• Damped oscillations can arise under different parameters, which relate to rhythms in peripheral tissues.
• Incorporating light-induced expression of the Per gene allows the model to simulate entrainment by light-dark cycles.
• Minor changes in parameters can lead to significant phase variations in the oscillations, potentially linking to circadian rhythm disorders in humans.
• The model suggests that sustained oscillations may occur even when certain regulatory mechanisms for gene expression are inactive.

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