Somatostatin regulates central clock function and circadian responses to light

Apr 25, 2023Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America

Somatostatin controls the brain's internal clock and daily responses to light

AI simplified

Abstract

(SST) signaling in the is regulated by light and influences daily rhythms in behavior, showing differences between sexes.

  • SST expression in the hypothalamus is modulated by changes in light exposure.
  • Mice with altered SST signaling exhibit enhanced circadian responses to light and increased behavioral flexibility regarding photoperiod and environmental changes.
  • Sex differences in photic responses are diminished in males, indicating that SST may interact with light-processing circuits differently based on sex.
  • The number of neurons in the SCN that respond to light increases in the absence of SST signaling, suggesting a role in resetting the molecular clock.
  • Lack of SST signaling affects the SCN's ability to encode changes in day length and influences synchronization among cells.

AI simplified

Key numbers

25%
Increase in tdT+ cells
Observed after 12 weeks of exposure to long photoperiods.
30%
Increase in VIP-expressing neurons
Measured under L12 light conditions.
20%
Increase in GRP-expressing neurons
Also noted under L12 light conditions.

Full Text

We can’t show the full text here under this license. Use the link below to read it at the source.

what lands in your inbox each week:

  • 📚7 fresh studies
  • 📝plain-language summaries
  • direct links to original studies
  • 🏅top journal indicators
  • 📅weekly delivery
  • 🧘‍♂️always free