Developmental and Diurnal Dynamics of Pax4 Expression in the Mammalian Pineal Gland: Nocturnal Down-Regulation Is Mediated by Adrenergic-Cyclic Adenosine 3′,5′-Monophosphate Signaling

Sep 27, 2008Endocrinology

Daily and developmental changes in Pax4 levels in the mammalian pineal gland: night-time decrease controlled by adrenaline-related signaling

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Abstract

Pax4 mRNA levels in the pineal gland exhibit a diurnal rhythm, peaking late in the light period.

  • Pax4 is strongly expressed in the pineal gland and retina of the rat.
  • Pax4 transcripts are low during fetal development but increase after birth, while Pax6 levels decrease during the same period.
  • Sympathetic denervation of the pineal gland prevents the nighttime reduction of Pax4 mRNA.
  • Adrenergic stimulation at night suppresses Pax4 expression, likely mediated by cAMP.
  • These findings suggest that the sympathetic nervous system regulates Pax4 levels in the pineal gland through an adrenergic-cAMP mechanism.

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