Mice Genetically Deficient in Vasopressin V1a and V1b Receptors Are Resistant to Jet Lag

Mice lacking vasopressin receptors V1a and V1b demonstrated immediate reentrainment of circadian rhythms to phase-shifted light-dark cycles.

• Circadian rhythms of behavior, clock gene expression, and body temperature adjusted quickly to new light-dark cycles in V1a(-/-)V1b(-/-) mice.
• Despite rapid adjustment, behavior in these mice remained linked to their internal circadian clock, which functioned normally under standard conditions.
• Experiments indicated that communication between neurons, regulated by V1a and V1b, may help the suprachiasmatic nucleus resist disruptions from external changes.
• Blocking V1a and V1b in wild-type mice led to faster recovery from jet lag, suggesting vasopressin signaling could be targeted for treating circadian misalignments.

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