Abstract
We examined the role of c-fos in the synchronization of circadian rhythms to environmental light cycles using a line of gene-targeted mice carrying a null mutation at this locus. Circadian locomotor rhythms in mutants had similar periods as wild-type controls but took significantly longer than controls to entrain to 12:12 light-dark cycles. Light-induced phase shifts of rhythms in constant dark were attenuated in mutants although the circadian timing of phase delays and advances was not changed. A functional retinohypothalamic projection was indicated from behavioral results and light-induced jun-B expression in the SCN. The results indicate that while c-fos activation is not an absolute requirement for rhythm generation nor photic responses, it is required for normal entrainment of the mammalian biological clock.
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Abbreviations
- SCN :
-
suprachiasmatic nucleus
- RHT :
-
retinohypothalamic tract
- IEG :
-
immediate early genes
- NGF :
-
nerve growth factor
- VIP :
-
vasoactive intestinal polypeptide
- DD :
-
constant darkness
- CT :
-
circadian time
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Honrado, G.I., Johnson, R.S., Golombek, D.A. et al. The circadian system of c-fos deficient mice. J Comp Physiol A 178, 563–570 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00190186
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00190186