Seasonal variations of clock gene expression in the suprachiasmatic nuclei and pars tuberalis of the European hamster (Cricetus cricetus)

Apr 12, 2007The European journal of neuroscience

Seasonal changes in daily rhythm gene activity in the brain’s internal clock and hormone control areas of the European hamster

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Abstract

Photoperiod significantly altered the expression of all clock genes studied in the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) of European hamsters.

  • In short photoperiods, Clock mRNA levels decreased, and Bmal1 expression became arrhythmic.
  • These changes in the SCN may lead to a dramatic reduction in the rhythm of vasopressin (Avp) expression.
  • In the pars tuberalis (PT), Per1 and Rev-erbalpha expressions were consistently anchored to dawn across both photoperiods.
  • Cry1 mRNA daily profiles did not align with plasma melatonin variations, although Cry1 expression was regulated by acute melatonin injection in the PT.
  • Seasonal variations in clock gene expression may influence the control of seasonal physiological functions.

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