The melatonin receptor MT1 is needed for melatonin to differently control daily rhythm genes in movement-related brain cells in the lab

Melatonin influences the expression of key clock genes in the striatum, affecting dopaminergic behaviors and mood.

• Melatonin affects the expression of the clock genes mPer1, mClock, mBmal1, and mNPAS2 in striatal neuronal cultures.
• A decrease in mPer1 and mClock expression and an increase in mNPAS2 expression were observed in response to melatonin.
• No significant change in mBmal1 expression was detected with melatonin treatment.
• The effects of melatonin on clock gene expression are sensitive to pertussis toxin, indicating involvement of G protein-coupled receptors.
• Mutating the MT1 melatonin receptor reversed the changes induced by melatonin, suggesting its crucial role in regulating clock gene expression.

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