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Signaling to the Mammalian Circadian Clocks: In Pursuit of the Primary Mammalian Circadian Photoreceptor
How signals reach the mammalian body clock: searching for the main light sensor controlling daily rhythms
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Abstract
The primary mammalian circadian photoreceptor remains elusive after 10 years of investigation.
- The central oscillator, or master clock, is located in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN).
- Light is a key stimulus for synchronizing circadian rhythms with the environment through signaling to the SCN.
- Multiple photoreceptive molecules may play a role in detecting environmental light cycles.
- Cell-autonomous peripheral clocks have been identified, indicating a complex network of circadian regulation.
- Understanding the communication between central and peripheral clocks is crucial for addressing circadian-related disorders.
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