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Lokossou HA, Rabuffo G, Bernard M, Bernard C, Viola A, Perles-Barbacaru TA. Impact of the day/night cycle on functional connectome in ageing male and female mice. Neuroimage 2024; 290:120576. [PMID: 38490583 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
To elucidate how time of day, sex, and age affect functional connectivity (FC) in mice, we aimed to examine whether the mouse functional connectome varied with the day/night cycle and whether it depended on sex and age. We explored C57Bl6/J mice (6♀ and 6♂) at mature age (5 ± 1 months) and middle-age (14 ± 1 months). Each mouse underwent Blood Oxygen-Level-Dependent (BOLD) resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) on a 7T scanner at four different times of the day, two under the light condition and two under the dark condition. Data processing consisted of group independent component analysis (ICA) and region-level analysis using resting-state networks (RSNs) derived from literature. Linear mixed-effect models (LMEM) were used to assess the effects of sex, lighting condition and their interactions for each RSN obtained with group-ICA (RSNs-GICA) and six bilateral RSNs adapted from literature (RSNs-LIT). Our study highlighted new RSNs in mice related to day/night alternation in addition to other networks already reported in the literature. In mature mice, we found sex-related differences in brain activation only in one RSNs-GICA comprising the cortical, hippocampal, midbrain and cerebellar regions of the right hemisphere. In males, brain activity was significantly higher in the left hippocampus, the retrosplenial cortex, the superior colliculus, and the cerebellum regardless of lighting condition; consistent with the role of these structures in memory formation and integration, sleep, and sex-differences in memory processing. Experimental constraints limited the analysis to the impact of light/dark cycle on the RSNs for middle-aged females. We detected significant activation in the pineal gland during the dark condition, a finding in line with the nocturnal activity of this gland. For the analysis of RSNs-LIT, new variables "sexage" (sex and age combined) and "edges" (pairs of RSNs) were introduced. FC was calculated as the Pearson correlation between two RSNs. LMEM revealed no effect of sexage or lighting condition. The FC depended on the edges, but there were no interaction effects between sexage, lighting condition and edges. Interaction effects were detected between i) sex and lighting condition, with higher FC in males under the dark condition, ii) sexage and edges with higher FC in male brain regions related to vision, memory, and motor action. We conclude that time of day and sex should be taken into account when designing, analyzing, and interpreting functional imaging studies in rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houéfa Armelle Lokossou
- Centre for Magnetic Resonance in Biology and Medicine, CRMBM UMR 7339, Aix-Marseille University-CNRS, Marseille, France; Institute of Systems Neuroscience, INS UMR 1106, Aix-Marseille University-INSERM, Marseille, France.
| | - Giovanni Rabuffo
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, INS UMR 1106, Aix-Marseille University-INSERM, Marseille, France
| | - Monique Bernard
- Centre for Magnetic Resonance in Biology and Medicine, CRMBM UMR 7339, Aix-Marseille University-CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Christophe Bernard
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, INS UMR 1106, Aix-Marseille University-INSERM, Marseille, France.
| | - Angèle Viola
- Centre for Magnetic Resonance in Biology and Medicine, CRMBM UMR 7339, Aix-Marseille University-CNRS, Marseille, France
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2
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van Dorp R, Rolleri E, Deboer T. Sleep and the sleep electroencephalogram in C57BL/6 and C3H/HeN mice. J Sleep Res 2024; 33:e14062. [PMID: 37803888 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.14062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Different mouse strains used in biomedical research show different phenotypes associated with their genotypes. Two mouse strains commonly used in biomedical sleep research are C57Bl/6 and C3H/He, the strains differ in numerous aspects, including their ability to secrete melatonin as well as the expression of several sleep-related genes. However, sleep regulation has only limitedly been compared between C3H/HeN and C57Bl/6 mice. We therefore compared sleep-wake behaviour and EEG-measured spectral brain activity for C57bl/6 and C3H/HeN mice during a 12:12 h light: dark baseline and during and after a 6 h sleep deprivation. The C3H mice spent more time in NREM sleep around the light-dark transition and more time in REM sleep during the dark phase compared with C57bl/6 mice. The C3H mice also showed more EEG activity in the 4.5-7.5 Hz range during all stages and a stronger 24 h modulation of EEG power density in almost all EEG frequencies during NREM sleep. After the sleep deprivation, C3H mice showed a stronger recovery response, which was expressed in both a larger increase in EEG slow wave activity (SWA) and more time spent in NREM sleep. We show large differences regarding sleep architecture and EEG activity between C3H and C57bl/6 mice. These differences include the amount of waking during the late dark phase, the 24 h amplitude in EEG power density, and the amount of REM sleep during the dark phase. We conclude that differences between mouse strains should be considered when selecting a model strain to improve the generalisability of studies investigating biomedical parameters related to sleep and circadian rhythms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rick van Dorp
- Laboratory for Neurophysiology, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Elisa Rolleri
- Laboratory for Neurophysiology, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Tom Deboer
- Laboratory for Neurophysiology, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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3
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Ashton A, Clark J, Fedo J, Sementilli A, Fragoso YD, McCaffery P. Retinoic Acid Signalling in the Pineal Gland Is Conserved across Mammalian Species and Its Transcriptional Activity Is Inhibited by Melatonin. Cells 2023; 12:286. [PMID: 36672220 PMCID: PMC9856906 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The pineal gland is integral to the circadian timing system due to its role in nightly melatonin production. Retinoic acid (RA) is a potent regulator of gene transcription and has previously been found to exhibit diurnal changes in synthesis and signalling in the rat pineal gland. This study investigated the potential for the interaction of these two systems. PCR was used to study gene expression in mouse and human pineal glands, ex-vivo organotypic cultured rat pineal gland and cell lines. The mouse and human pineal glands were both found to express the necessary components required for RA signalling. RA influences the circadian clock in the brain, therefore the short-term effect of RA on clock gene expression was determined in ex vivo rat pineal glands but was not found to rapidly regulate Per1, Per2, Bmal1, or Cry1. The interaction between RA and melatonin was also investigated and, unexpectedly, melatonin was found to suppress the induction of gene transcription by RA. This study demonstrates that pineal expression of the RA signalling system is conserved across mammalian species. There is no short-term regulation of the circadian clock but an inhibitory effect of melatonin on RA transcriptional activity was demonstrated, suggesting that there may be functional cross-talk between these systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ashton
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Jason Clark
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Julia Fedo
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Angelo Sementilli
- Department of Physiopathology, Universidade Metropolitana de Santos and Centro, Universitario Lusíada, Santos 11050-071, SP, Brazil
| | - Yara D. Fragoso
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
- Department of Post Graduate Studies, Universidade Metropolitana de Santos, Santos 11045-002, SP, Brazil
| | - Peter McCaffery
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
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Lakhssassi K, Sarto MP, Marín B, Lahoz B, Folch J, Alabart JL, Serrano M, Calvo JH. Exploring differentially expressed genes in hypothalamic, pars tuberalis and pineal gland transcriptomes in different sexual behavior phenotypes in rams using RNA-Seq. J Anim Sci 2023; 101:skac365. [PMID: 36331073 PMCID: PMC9833037 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive seasonality is a limiting factor in sheep production. Sexual behavior is a key element in reproductive efficiency, and this function is regulated by the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. To understand the mechanisms of sexual behavior, transcriptomic sequencing technology was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the hypothalamus (HT), pars tuberalis (PT) and pineal gland (PG) in Rasa Aragonesa rams with different sexual behavior. Bioinformatics analysis of the 16,401 identified genes by RNA-Seq revealed 103 and 12 DEGs in the HT and the PG, respectively, at a false discovery rate (FDR) of 5% with an absolute value of expression ≥ 1 (log2FC). However, no DEGs were found in the PT. Functional annotation and pathway enrichment analysis showed that DEGs of HT were enriched mainly in neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions and signaling pathways, including notable candidate genes such as MTNR1A, CHRNA2, FSHB, LHB, GNRHR, AVP, PRL, PDYN, CGA, GABRD, and TSHB, which play a crucial role in sexual behavior. The GnRH and cAMP signaling pathways were also highlighted. In addition, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) identified potential pathways, dominated mainly by biological process category, that could be responsible for the differences in sexual behavior observed in rams. The intracellular protein transport and pattern specification process were enriched within the PT and the transcription factor binding and protein ubiquitination pathways for the PG. Thus, these pathways together may play an important role in the regulation of the sexual behavior in Rasa Aragonesa rams through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The validation of 5 DEGs using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) showed expression patterns like the found with RNA-Seq. Overall, these results contribute to understanding the genomic basis of sexual behavior in rams. Our study demonstrates that multiple networks and pathways orchestrate sexual behavior in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenza Lakhssassi
- Agrifood Research and Technology Centre of Aragon-IA2, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
- INRA Instituts, 6356 Rabat, Morocco
| | - María Pilar Sarto
- Agrifood Research and Technology Centre of Aragon-IA2, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Belén Marín
- Centre for Encephalopathies and Emerging Transmissible Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Belén Lahoz
- Agrifood Research and Technology Centre of Aragon-IA2, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - José Folch
- Agrifood Research and Technology Centre of Aragon-IA2, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - José Luis Alabart
- Agrifood Research and Technology Centre of Aragon-IA2, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Malena Serrano
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, INIA-CSIC, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Hugo Calvo
- Agrifood Research and Technology Centre of Aragon-IA2, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
- ARAID, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
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Dauchy RT, Blask DE. Vivarium Lighting as an Important Extrinsic Factor Influencing Animal-based Research. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE : JAALAS 2023; 62:3-25. [PMID: 36755210 PMCID: PMC9936857 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-jaalas-23-000003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Light is an extrinsic factor that exerts widespread influence on the regulation of circadian, physiologic, hormonal, metabolic, and behavioral systems of all animals, including those used in research. These wide-ranging biologic effects of light are mediated by distinct photoreceptors, the melanopsin-containing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells of the nonvisual system, which interact with the rods and cones of the conventional visual system. Here, we review the nature of light and circadian rhythms, current industry practices and standards, and our present understanding of the neurophysiology of the visual and nonvisual systems. We also consider the implications of this extrinsic factor for vivarium measurement, production, and technological application of light, and provide simple recommendations on artificial lighting for use by regulatory authorities, lighting manufacturers, designers, engineers, researchers, and research animal care staff that ensure best practices for optimizing animal health and wellbeing and, ultimately, improving scientific outcomes.
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Key Words
- blad, blue-enriched led light at daytime
- clock, circadian locomotor output kaput
- cct, correlated color temperature
- cwf, cool white fluorescent
- iprgc, intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell
- hiomt, hydroxyindole-o-methyltransferase
- lan, light at night
- led, light-emitting diode
- plr, pupillary light reflex
- scn, suprachiasmatic nuclei
- spd, spectral power distribution
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert T Dauchy
- Department of Structural and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Chrono-Neuroendocrine Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - David E Blask
- Department of Structural and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Chrono-Neuroendocrine Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
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6
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Pfeffer M, von Gall C, Wicht H, Korf HW. The Role of the Melatoninergic System in Circadian and Seasonal Rhythms—Insights From Different Mouse Strains. Front Physiol 2022; 13:883637. [PMID: 35492605 PMCID: PMC9039042 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.883637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The melatoninergic system comprises the neurohormone melatonin and its molecular targets. The major source of melatonin is the pineal organ where melatonin is rhythmically produced during darkness. In mammals, melatonin biosynthesis is controlled by the central circadian rhythm generator in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and photoreceptors in the retina. Melatonin elicits its function principally through two specific receptors called MT1 and MT2. MT1 is highly expressed in the SCN and the hypophysial pars tuberalis (PT), an important interface for control of seasonal functions. The expression of the MT2 is more widespread. The role of the melatoninergic system in the control of seasonal functions, such as reproduction, has been known for more than 4 decades, but investigations on its impact on the circadian system under normal (entrained) conditions started 2 decades later by comparing mouse strains with a fully functional melatoninergic system with mouse strains which either produce insufficient amounts of melatonin or lack the melatonin receptors MT1 and MT2. These studies revealed that an intact melatoninergic system is not required for the generation or maintenance of rhythmic behavior under physiological entrained conditions. As shown by jet lag experiments, the melatoninergic system facilitated faster re-entrainment of locomotor activity accompanied by a more rapid adaptation of the molecular clock work in the SCN. This action depended on MT2. Further studies indicated that the endogenous melatoninergic system stabilizes the locomotor activity under entrained conditions. Notably, these effects of the endogenous melatoninergic system are subtle, suggesting that other signals such as corticosterone or temperature contribute to the synchronization of locomotor activity. Outdoor experiments lasting for a whole year indicate a seasonal plasticity of the chronotype which depends on the melatoninergic system. The comparison between mice with an intact or a compromised melatoninergic system also points toward an impact of this system on sleep, memory and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Pfeffer
- Institute of Anatomy II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- *Correspondence: Martina Pfeffer,
| | - Charlotte von Gall
- Institute of Anatomy II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Helmut Wicht
- Dr. Senckenbergische Anatomie II, Fachbereich Medizin der Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Horst-Werner Korf
- Institute of Anatomy I, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
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7
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Sumaya I, Dubocovich M. Melatonin-Mediated Attenuation of Fluphenazine-Induced Hypokinesia in C57BL/6 Mice is Dependent on the Light/Dark Phase. Behav Brain Res 2022; 425:113827. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2022.113827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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8
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Ali AAH, von Gall C. Adult Neurogenesis under Control of the Circadian System. Cells 2022; 11:cells11050764. [PMID: 35269386 PMCID: PMC8909047 DOI: 10.3390/cells11050764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The mammalian circadian system is a hierarchically organized system, which controls a 24-h periodicity in a wide variety of body and brain functions and physiological processes. There is increasing evidence that the circadian system modulates the complex multistep process of adult neurogenesis, which is crucial for brain plasticity. This modulatory effect may be exercised via rhythmic systemic factors including neurotransmitters, hormones and neurotrophic factors as well as rhythmic behavior and physiology or via intrinsic factors within the neural progenitor cells such as the redox state and clock genes/molecular clockwork. In this review, we discuss the role of the circadian system for adult neurogenesis at both the systemic and the cellular levels. Better understanding of the role of the circadian system in modulation of adult neurogenesis can help develop new treatment strategies to improve the cognitive deterioration associated with chronodisruption due to detrimental light regimes or neurodegenerative diseases.
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9
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Zhang C, Clough SJ, Adamah-Biassi EB, Sveinsson MH, Hutchinson AJ, Miura I, Furuse T, Wakana S, Matsumoto YK, Okanoya K, Hudson RL, Kato T, Dubocovich ML, Kasahara T. Impact of endogenous melatonin on rhythmic behaviors, reproduction, and survival revealed in melatonin-proficient C57BL/6J congenic mice. J Pineal Res 2021; 71:e12748. [PMID: 34085306 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The hormone melatonin is synthesized from serotonin by two enzymatic reactions (AANAT and ASMT/HIOMT) in the pineal gland following a circadian rhythm with low levels during the day and high levels at night. The robust nightly peak of melatonin secretion is an output signal of the circadian clock to the whole organism. However, so far the regulatory roles of endogenous melatonin in mammalian biological rhythms and physiology processes are poorly understood. Here, we establish congenic mouse lines (>N10 generations) that are proficient or deficient in melatonin synthesis (AH+/+ or AH-/- mice, respectively) on the C57BL/6J genetic background by crossing melatonin-proficient MSM/Ms with C57BL/6J. AH+/+ mice displayed robust nightly peak of melatonin secretion and had significantly higher levels of pineal and plasma melatonin vs AH-/- mice. Using this mice model, we investigated the role of endogenous melatonin in regulating multiple biological rhythms, physiological processes, and rhythmic behaviors. In the melatonin-proficient (AH+/+) mice, the rate of re-entrainment of wheel-running activity was accelerated following a 6-hour phase advance of dark onset when comparted with AH-/- mice, suggesting a role of endogenous melatonin in facilitating clock adjustment. Further in the AH+/+ mice, there was a significant decrease in body weight, gonadal weight and reproductive performance, and a significant increase in daily torpor (a hypothermic and hypometabolic state lasting only hours during adverse conditions). Endogenous melatonin, however, had no effect in the modulation of the diurnal rhythm of 2-[125 I]-iodomelatonin receptor expression in the SCN, free-running wheel behavior in constant darkness, life span, spontaneous homecage behaviors, and various types of social-emotional behaviors. The findings also shed light on the role of endogenous melatonin in mice domestication and provide new insights into melatonin's action in reducing energy expenditure during a food shortage. In summary, the congenic mice model generated in this study offers a significant advantage toward understanding of the role of endogenous melatonin in regulating melatonin receptor-mediated rhythm behaviors and physiological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chongyang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY), Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Shannon J Clough
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY), Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Ekue B Adamah-Biassi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY), Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Michele H Sveinsson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY), Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Anthony J Hutchinson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY), Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Ikuo Miura
- Technology and Development Team for Mouse Phenotype Analysis, BioResource Research Center, RIKEN, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tamio Furuse
- Technology and Development Team for Mouse Phenotype Analysis, BioResource Research Center, RIKEN, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Shigeharu Wakana
- Department of Gerontology, Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, Kobe-shi, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Yui K Matsumoto
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuo Okanoya
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Randall L Hudson
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY), Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Tadafumi Kato
- Laboratory for the Molecular Dynamics of Mental Disorders, Center for Brain Science, RIKEN, Wako-shi, Saitama, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Margarita L Dubocovich
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY), Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Takaoki Kasahara
- Laboratory for the Molecular Dynamics of Mental Disorders, Center for Brain Science, RIKEN, Wako-shi, Saitama, Japan
- Career Development Program, Center for Brain Science, RIKEN, Wako-shi, Saitama, Japan
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10
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Yang C, Liu Q, Chen Y, Wang X, Ran Z, Fang F, Xiong J, Liu G, Li X, Yang L, He C. Melatonin delays ovarian aging in mice by slowing down the exhaustion of ovarian reserve. Commun Biol 2021; 4:534. [PMID: 33958705 PMCID: PMC8102596 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02042-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies have shown that melatonin (MLT) can delay ovarian aging, but the mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Here we show that granulosa cells isolated from mice follicles can synthesize MLT; the addition of MLT in ovary culture system inhibited follicle activation and growth; In vivo experiments indicated that injections of MLT to mice during the follicle activation phase can reduce the number of activated follicles by inhibiting the PI3K-AKT-FOXO3 pathway; during the early follicle growth phase, MLT administration suppressed follicle growth and atresia, and multiple pathways involved in folliculogenesis, including PI3K-AKT, were suppressed; MLT deficiency in mice increased follicle activation and atresia, and eventually accelerated age-related fertility decline; finally, we demonstrated that prolonged high-dose MLT intake had no obvious adverse effect. This study presents more insight into the roles of MLT in reproductive regulation that endogenous MLT delays ovarian aging by inhibiting follicle activation, growth and atresia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Yang
- grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China
| | - Qinghua Liu
- grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China
| | - Yingjun Chen
- grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China
| | - Zaohong Ran
- grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China
| | - Fang Fang
- grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China
| | - Jiajun Xiong
- grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China
| | - Guoshi Liu
- grid.22935.3f0000 0004 0530 8290College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Xiang Li
- grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China
| | - Liguo Yang
- grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China
| | - Changjiu He
- grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China ,grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 China
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11
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Lee R, Tapia A, Kaladchibachi S, Grandner MA, Fernandez FX. Meta-analysis of light and circadian timekeeping in rodents. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 123:215-229. [PMID: 33513413 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We conducted a meta-analysis of papers published over the past half-century (1964-2017) that quantified the phase-shifting effects of timed light exposure on rodent locomotor rhythms. Descriptive statistics were tabulated in order to explore the extent to which these studies were generalizable across species, sex, age, circadian timing, and light sources. Attempts at understanding photic resetting were primarily targeted at younger male animals, with particular emphases placed on characterizing the pacemaker systems of C57BL/6 mice and Syrian hamsters during the parts of their subjective night most sensitive to delivery of white-fluorescent light. With subsequent analyses restricted to these rodent models, we then assessed the relationship between luminous exposure (via broadspectrum emission) and phase-shifting through a series of linear regressions. Monotonically increasing illuminance-response functions were noted at most circadian times surveyed. In the aggregate, our results show that previous research conducted on light's regulation of circadian timekeeping has been skewed in design with respect to several important biological variables. This bias might limit translation of phototherapy-relevant data to women and older individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Lee
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Amaris Tapia
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Michael A Grandner
- Sleep and Health Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Fabian-Xosé Fernandez
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA; BIO5 and McKnight Brain Research Institutes, Tucson, AZ, USA.
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12
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de Miera CS, Beymer M, Routledge K, Krol E, Hazlerigg DG, Simonneaux V. Photoperiodic regulation in a wild-derived mouse strain. J Exp Biol 2020:jeb.217687. [PMID: 34005441 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.217687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Mus musculus molossinus (MSM) is a wild-derived mouse strain which maintains the ability to synthesize melatonin in patterns reflecting the ambient photoperiod. The objective of this study was to characterize the effects of photoperiodic variation on metabolic and reproductive traits, and the related changes in pituitary-hypothalamic gene expression in MSM mice. MSM mice were kept in long (LP) or short photoperiod (SP) for 6 weeks. Our results demonstrate that MSM mice kept in LP, as compared to mice kept in SP, display higher expression of genes encoding thyrotropin (TSH) in the pars tuberalis, thyroid hormone deiodinase 2 (dio2) in the tanycytes, RFamide-related peptide (RFRP3) in the hypothalamus and lower expression of dio3 in the tanycytes, along with larger body and reproductive organ mass. Additionally, to assess the effects of the gestational photoperiodic environment on the expression of these genes, we kept MSM mice in LP or SP from gestation and studied offspring. We show that the gestational photoperiod affects the TSH/dio pathway in newborn MSM mice in a similar way to adults. This result indicates a transgenerational effect of photoperiod from the mother to the fetus in utero. Overall, these results indicate that photoperiod can influence neuroendocrine regulation in a melatonin-proficient mouse strain, in a manner similar that documented in other seasonal rodent species. MSM mice may therefore become a useful model for research into the molecular basis of photoperiodic regulation of seasonal biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Sáenz de Miera
- Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neuroscience, University of Strasbourg, 67000, Strasbourg, France
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, Scotland, UK
| | - Matthew Beymer
- Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neuroscience, University of Strasbourg, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Kevin Routledge
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, Scotland, UK
| | - Elżbieta Krol
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, Scotland, UK
| | - David G Hazlerigg
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, Scotland, UK
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, Faculty of Biosciences, Fisheries and Economy, University of Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Valerie Simonneaux
- Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neuroscience, University of Strasbourg, 67000, Strasbourg, France
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13
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Michurina SV, Ishchenko IY, Korolev MA, Letyagin AY, Rachkovskaya LN, Khotskina AS, Khotskin NV, Maslennikova SO, Zavjalov EL. Effects of Melatonin on the Body Composition, Physical Performance, and Blood Erythrocyte Indexes of C57Bl/6J Mice Exposed to Continuous Illumination. Bull Exp Biol Med 2019; 168:28-32. [PMID: 31741245 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-019-04638-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Male C57Bl/6J mice were exposed to daily 24-h illumination over 14 days and daily intragastrically received melatonin (1 mg/kg) or water (placebo). Controls were kept under standard day/night (14/10 h) conditions. Melatonin prevented the development of anemia in mice exposed to continuous illumination, which was proven by higher blood hemoglobin levels by the end of the experiment in melatonin-treated animals in comparison with the placebo group. Studies by the low-field NMR spectrometry detected lower lean body mass, total body water, and especially, fat content (by ~13%) in animals receiving placebo. Melatonin treatment led to an increase in the lean body mass and total body water on day 7 (in comparison with the placebo group) without affecting fat mass. On day 14 of continuous illumination, lean body mass increased in comparison with the corresponding parameter in the control and placebo groups. Melatonin had no effect on the physical endurance of mice exposed to continuous illumination (assessed by the grid hanging test).
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Affiliation(s)
- S V Michurina
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology, Affiliated Branch of Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - I Yu Ishchenko
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology, Affiliated Branch of Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - M A Korolev
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology, Affiliated Branch of Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - A Yu Letyagin
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology, Affiliated Branch of Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - L N Rachkovskaya
- Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology, Affiliated Branch of Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - A S Khotskina
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - N V Khotskin
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - S O Maslennikova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - E L Zavjalov
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
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14
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Dauchy RT, Blask DE, Hoffman AE, Xiang S, Hanifin JP, Warfield B, Brainard GC, Anbalagan M, Dupepe LM, Dobek GL, Belancio VP, Dauchy EM, Hill SM. Influence of Daytime LED Light Exposure on Circadian Regulatory Dynamics of Metabolism and Physiology in Mice. Comp Med 2019; 69:350-373. [PMID: 31540584 PMCID: PMC6807725 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-19-000001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Light is a potent biologic force that profoundly influences circadian, neuroendocrine, and neurobehavioral regulation in animals. Previously we examined the effects of light-phase exposure of rats to white light-emitting diodes (LED), which emit more light in the blue-appearing portion of the visible spectrum (465 to 485 nm) than do broad-spectrum cool white fluorescent (CWF) light, on the nighttime melatonin amplitude and circadian regulation of metabolism and physiology. In the current studies, we tested the hypothesis that exposure to blue-enriched LED light at day (bLAD), compared with CWF, promotes the circadian regulation of neuroendocrine, metabolic, and physiologic parameters that are associated with optimizing homeostatic regulation of health and wellbeing in 3 mouse strains commonly used in biomedical research (C3H [melatonin-producing], C57BL/6, and BALB/c [melatonin-non-producing]). Compared with male and female mice housed for 12 wk under 12:12-h light:dark (LD) cycles in CWF light, C3H mice in bLAD evinced 6-fold higher peak plasma melatonin levels at the middark phase; in addition, high melatonin levels were prolonged 2 to 3 h into the light phase. C57BL/6 and BALB/c strains did not produce nighttime pineal melatonin. Body growth rates; dietary and water intakes; circadian rhythms of arterial blood corticosterone, insulin, leptin, glucose, and lactic acid; pO₂ and pCO₂; fatty acids; and metabolic indicators (cAMP, DNA, tissue DNA 3H-thymidine incorporation, fat content) in major organ systems were significantly lower and activation of major metabolic signaling pathways (mTOR, GSK3β, and SIRT1) in skeletal muscle and liver were higher only in C3H mice in bLAD compared with CWF. These data show that exposure of C3H mice to bLAD compared with CWF has a marked positive effect on the circadian regulation of neuroendocrine, metabolic, and physiologic parameters associated with the promotion of animal health and wellbeing that may influence scientific outcomes. The absence of enhancement in amelatonic strains suggests hyperproduction of nighttime melatonin may be a key component of the physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert T Dauchy
- Departments of Structural and Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana;,
| | - David E Blask
- Departments of Structural and Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Aaron E Hoffman
- Departments of Epidemiology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Shulin Xiang
- Departments of Structural and Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - John P Hanifin
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Benjamin Warfield
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - George C Brainard
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Murali Anbalagan
- Departments of Structural and Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Lynell M Dupepe
- Departments of Comparative Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Georgina L Dobek
- Departments of Comparative Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Victoria P Belancio
- Departments of Structural and Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Erin M Dauchy
- Department of Medicine, Louisiana State Health Science Center, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Steven M Hill
- Departments of Structural and Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
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15
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Kennaway
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide Health and Medical Research Building, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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16
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Ali AAH, Stahr A, Ingenwerth M, Theis M, Steinhäuser C, von Gall C. Connexin30 and Connexin43 show a time-of-day dependent expression in the mouse suprachiasmatic nucleus and modulate rhythmic locomotor activity in the context of chronodisruption. Cell Commun Signal 2019; 17:61. [PMID: 31186021 PMCID: PMC6560876 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-019-0370-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The astroglial connexins Cx30 and Cx43 contribute to many important CNS functions including cognitive behaviour, motoric capacity and regulation of the sleep-wake cycle. The sleep wake cycle, is controlled by the circadian system. The central circadian rhythm generator resides in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). SCN neurons are tightly coupled in order to generate a coherent circadian rhythm. The SCN receives excitatory glutamatergic input from the retina which mediates entrainment of the circadian system to the environmental light-dark cycle. Connexins play an important role in electric coupling of SCN neurons and astrocytic-neuronal signalling that regulates rhythmic SCN neuronal activity. However, little is known about the regulation of Cx30 and Cx43 expression in the SCN, and the role of these connexins in light entrainment of the circadian system and in circadian rhythm generation. Methods We analysed time-of-day dependent as well as circadian expression of Cx30 and Cx43 mRNA and protein in the mouse SCN by means of qPCR and immunohistochemistry. Moreover, we analysed rhythmic spontaneous locomotor activity in mice with a targeted deletion of Cx30 and astrocyte specific deletion of Cx43 (DKO) in different light regimes by means of on-cage infrared detectors. Results Fluctuation of Cx30 protein expression is strongly dependent on the light-dark cycle whereas fluctuation of Cx43 protein expression persisted in constant darkness. DKO mice entrained to the light-dark cycle. However, re-entrainment after a phase delay was slightly impaired in DKO mice. Surprisingly, DKO mice were more resilient to chronodisruption. Conclusion Circadian fluctuation of Cx30 and Cx43 protein expression in the SCN is differently regulated. Cx30 and astroglial Cx43 play a role in rhythm stability and re-entrainment under challenging conditions. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12964-019-0370-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira A H Ali
- Institute of Anatomy II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Merowinger Platz 1A, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Anna Stahr
- Institute of Anatomy II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Merowinger Platz 1A, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Marc Ingenwerth
- Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Theis
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, Medical Faculty, University Bonn, Sigmund Freud Str. 25, 53105, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christian Steinhäuser
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, Medical Faculty, University Bonn, Sigmund Freud Str. 25, 53105, Bonn, Germany
| | - Charlotte von Gall
- Institute of Anatomy II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Merowinger Platz 1A, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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17
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Jilg A, Bechstein P, Saade A, Dick M, Li TX, Tosini G, Rami A, Zemmar A, Stehle JH. Melatonin modulates daytime-dependent synaptic plasticity and learning efficiency. J Pineal Res 2019; 66:e12553. [PMID: 30618149 PMCID: PMC6405292 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Mechanisms of hippocampus-related memory formation are time-of-day-dependent. While the circadian system and clock genes are related to timing of hippocampal mnemonic processes (acquisition, consolidation, and retrieval of long-term memory [LTM]) and long-term potentiation (LTP), little is known about temporal gating mechanisms. Here, the role of the neurohormone melatonin as a circadian time cue for hippocampal signaling and memory formation was investigated in C3H/He wildtype (WT) and melatonin receptor-knockout ( MT 1 / 2 - / - ) mice. Immunohistochemical and immunoblot analyses revealed the presence of melatonin receptors on mouse hippocampal neurons. Temporal patterns of time-of-day-dependent clock gene protein levels were profoundly altered in MT 1 / 2 - / - mice compared to WT animals. On the behavioral level, WT mice displayed better spatial learning efficiency during daytime as compared to nighttime. In contrast, high error scores were observed in MT 1 / 2 - / - mice during both, daytime and nighttime acquisition. Day-night difference in LTP, as observed in WT mice, was absent in MT 1 / 2 - / - mice and in WT animals, in which the sympathetic innervation of the pineal gland was surgically removed to erase rhythmic melatonin synthesis. In addition, treatment of melatonin-deficient C57BL/6 mice with melatonin at nighttime significantly improved their working memory performance at daytime. These results illustrate that melatonin shapes time-of-day-dependent learning efficiency in parallel to consolidating expression patterns of clock genes in the mouse hippocampus. Our data suggest that melatonin imprints a time cue on mouse hippocampal signaling and gene expression to foster better learning during daytime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antje Jilg
- Juha Hernesniemi International Neurosurgery Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
- Institute of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Philipp Bechstein
- Institute of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Anastasia Saade
- Institute of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Moritz Dick
- Institute of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Tian Xiao Li
- Juha Hernesniemi International Neurosurgery Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Gianluca Tosini
- Morehouse School of Medicine, Pharmacology & Toxicology, 720 Westview Drive SW, Atlanta, GA 30310-1495, USA
| | - Abdelhaq Rami
- Institute of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Ajmal Zemmar
- Juha Hernesniemi International Neurosurgery Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Biology and Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jörg H. Stehle
- Juha Hernesniemi International Neurosurgery Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
- Institute of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Germany
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18
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Kim P, Oster H, Lehnert H, Schmid SM, Salamat N, Barclay JL, Maronde E, Inder W, Rawashdeh O. Coupling the Circadian Clock to Homeostasis: The Role of Period in Timing Physiology. Endocr Rev 2019; 40:66-95. [PMID: 30169559 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
A plethora of physiological processes show stable and synchronized daily oscillations that are either driven or modulated by biological clocks. A circadian pacemaker located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the ventral hypothalamus coordinates 24-hour oscillations of central and peripheral physiology with the environment. The circadian clockwork involved in driving rhythmic physiology is composed of various clock genes that are interlocked via a complex feedback loop to generate precise yet plastic oscillations of ∼24 hours. This review focuses on the specific role of the core clockwork gene Period1 and its paralogs on intra-oscillator and extra-oscillator functions, including, but not limited to, hippocampus-dependent processes, cardiovascular function, appetite control, as well as glucose and lipid homeostasis. Alterations in Period gene function have been implicated in a wide range of physical and mental disorders. At the same time, a variety of conditions including metabolic disorders also impact clock gene expression, resulting in circadian disruptions, which in turn often exacerbates the disease state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pureum Kim
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Henrik Oster
- Institute of Neurobiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Hendrik Lehnert
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian M Schmid
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Nicole Salamat
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Johanna L Barclay
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Erik Maronde
- Department of Anatomy, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Warrick Inder
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Oliver Rawashdeh
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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19
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Paulose JK, Wang C, O'Hara BF, Cassone VM. The effects of aging on sleep parameters in a healthy, melatonin-competent mouse model. Nat Sci Sleep 2019; 11:113-121. [PMID: 31496853 PMCID: PMC6697669 DOI: 10.2147/nss.s214423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep disturbances are common maladies associated with human age. Sleep duration is decreased, sleep fragmentation is increased, and the timing of sleep onset and sleep offset is earlier. These disturbances have been associated with several neurodegenerative diseases. Mouse models for human sleep disturbances can be powerful due to the accessibility to neuroscientific and genetic approaches, but these are hampered by the fact that most mouse models employed in sleep research have spontaneous mutations in the biosynthetic pathway(s) regulating the rhythmic production of the pineal hormone melatonin, which has been implicated in human sleep. PURPOSE AND METHOD The present study employed a non-invasive piezoelectric measure of sleep wake cycles in young, middle-aged and old CBA mice, a strain capable of melatonin biosynthesis, to investigate naturally-occurring changes in sleep and circadian parameters as the result of aging. RESULTS The results indicate that young mice sleep less than do middle-aged or aged mice, especially during the night, while the timing of activity onset and acrophase is delayed in aged mice compared to younger mice. CONCLUSION These data point to an effect of aging on the quality and timing of sleep in these mice but also that there are fundamental differences between control of sleep in humans and in laboratory mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiffin K Paulose
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40515, USA
| | - Chanung Wang
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40515, USA.,Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Bruce F O'Hara
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40515, USA
| | - Vincent M Cassone
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40515, USA
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20
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Karatsoreos IN. Circadian Regulation of the Brain and Behavior: A Neuroendocrine Perspective. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2019; 43:323-351. [PMID: 31586337 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2019_115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Neuroendocrine systems are key regulators of brain and body functions, providing an important nexus between internal states and the external world, which then modulates appropriate behavioral outputs. Circadian (daily) rhythms are endogenously generated rhythms of approximately 24 h that help to synchronize internal physiological processes and behavioral states to the external environmental light-dark cycle. Given the importance of timing (hours, days, annual) in many different neuroendocrine axes, understanding how the circadian timing system regulates neuroendocrine function is particularly critical. Similarly, neuroendocrine signals can significantly affect circadian timing, and understanding these mechanisms can provide insights into general concepts of neuroendocrine regulation of brain circuits and behavior. This chapter will review the circadian timing system and its control of two key neuroendocrine systems: the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. It will also discuss how outputs from these axes feedback to affect the circadian clock. Given that disruption of circadian timing is a central component of many mental and physical health conditions and that neuroendocrine function is similarly implicated in many of the same conditions, understanding these links will help illuminate potentially shared causality and perhaps lead to a better understanding of how to manipulate these systems when they begin to malfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilia N Karatsoreos
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
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21
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Zhang Z, Silveyra E, Jin N, Ribelayga CP. A congenic line of the C57BL/6J mouse strain that is proficient in melatonin synthesis. J Pineal Res 2018; 65:e12509. [PMID: 29768727 PMCID: PMC6167157 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The C57BL/6J (B6) is the most common inbred mouse strain used in biomedical research in the United States. Yet, this strain is notoriously known for being deficient in the biosynthesis of melatonin, an important effector of circadian clocks in the brain and in the retina. Melatonin deficiency in this strain results from nonfunctional alleles of the genes coding 2 key enzymes of the melatonin synthesis pathway: arylalkylamine-N-acetyltransferase (Aanat) and N-acetylserotonin-O-methyltransferase (Asmt). By introducing functional alleles of the Aanat and Asmt genes from the melatonin-proficient CBA/CaJ (CBA) mouse strain to B6, we have generated a B6 congenic line that has acquired the capacity of rhythmic melatonin synthesis. In addition, the melatonin-dependent rhythm of dopamine release in the retina is restored in the B6 congenic line. Finally, we have partially characterized the Aanat and Asmt genes of the CBA strain and have identified multiple differences between CBA and B6 alleles, including single nucleotide polymorphism and deletion/insertion of DNA segments of various sizes. As an improved model organism with functional components of the melatonin synthesis pathway and melatonin-dependent circadian regulations, the new line will be useful to researchers studying melatonin physiological functions in a variety of fields including, but not limited to, circadian biology and neuroscience. In particular, the congenic line will be useful to speed up introduction of melatonin production capacity into genetically modified mouse lines of interest such as knockout lines, many of which are on B6 or mixed B6 backgrounds. The melatonin-proficient B6 congenic line will be widely distributed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijing Zhang
- Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Eduardo Silveyra
- Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Nange Jin
- Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Christophe P. Ribelayga
- Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
- MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
- Program in Neuroscience, MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
- Program in Biochemistry and Cell Biology, MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
- Neuroscience Research Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
- Corresponding Author: Christophe P. Ribelayga, Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin St., MSB 7.024, Houston, TX 77030, U.S.A., phone: (713)-500-5673,
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22
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Sharma R, Sahota P, Thakkar MM. Melatonin promotes sleep in mice by inhibiting orexin neurons in the perifornical lateral hypothalamus. J Pineal Res 2018; 65:e12498. [PMID: 29654707 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin promotes sleep. However, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Orexin neurons in the perifornical lateral hypothalamus (PFH) are pivotal for wake promotion. Does melatonin promote sleep by inhibiting orexin neurons? We used C57BL/6J mice and designed 4 experiments to address this question. Experiment 1 used double-labeled immunofluorescence and examined the presence of melatonin receptors on orexin neurons. Second, mice, implanted with bilateral guides targeted toward PFH and sleep-recording electrodes, were infused with melatonin (500 pmole/50 nL/side) at dark onset (onset of active period), and spontaneous bouts of sleep-wakefulness were examined. Third, mice, implanted with bilateral guides into the PFH, were infused with melatonin (500 pmole/50 nL/side) at dark onset and euthanized 2 hours later, to examine the activation of orexin neurons using c-Fos expression in orexin neurons. Fourth, mice, implanted with PFH bilateral guides and sleep-recording electrodes, were infused with melatonin receptor antagonist, luzindole (10 pmol/50 nL/side), at light onset (onset of sleep period), and spontaneous bouts of sleep-wakefulness were examined. Our results suggest that orexin neurons express MT1, but not MT2 receptors. Melatonin infusion into the PFH, at dark onset, site-specifically and significantly increased NREM sleep (43.7%, P = .003) and reduced wakefulness (12.3%, P = .013). Local melatonin infusion at dark onset inhibited orexin neurons as evident by a significant reduction (66%, P = .0004) in the number of orexin neurons expressing c-Fos. Finally, luzindole infusion-induced blockade of melatonin receptors in PFH at sleep onset significantly increased wakefulness (44.1%, P = .015). Based on these results, we suggest that melatonin may act via the MT1 receptors to inhibit orexin neurons and promote sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishi Sharma
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital and Department of Neurology, University of Missouri-School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Pradeep Sahota
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital and Department of Neurology, University of Missouri-School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Mahesh M Thakkar
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital and Department of Neurology, University of Missouri-School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
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23
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Pfeffer M, Korf HW, Wicht H. Synchronizing effects of melatonin on diurnal and circadian rhythms. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 258:215-221. [PMID: 28533170 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2017.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, the rhythmic secretion of melatonin from the pineal gland is driven by the circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus. The robust nightly peak of melatonin secretion is an output signal of the circadian clock and is supposed to deliver the circadian message to the whole of the organism. Since the circadian system regulates many behavioral and physiological processes, its disruption by external (shift-work, jet-lag) or internal desynchronization (blindness, aging) causes many different health problems. Externally applied melatonin is used in humans as a chronobiotic drug to treat desynchronization and circadian disorders, and the success of these treatments does, at first glance, underline the supposed pivotal role of melatonin in the synchronization of the circadian system. On the other hand, pinealectomy in experimental animals and humans does not abolish their rhythms of rest and activity. Furthermore, mice with deficient melatoninergic systems neither display overt defects in their rhythmic behavior nor do they show obvious signs of disease susceptibility, let alone premature mortality. During the last years, our laboratory has investigated several mouse stains with intact or compromised internal melatonin signaling systems in order to better understand the physiological role of the melatoninergic system. These and other investigations which will be reviewed in the present contribution confirm the synchronizing effect of endogenous melatonin and the melatoninergic system. However, these effects are subtle. Thus melatonin does not appear as the master of internal synchronization, but as one component in a cocktail of synchronizing agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Pfeffer
- Dr. Senckenbergische Anatomie II, Fachbereich Medizin, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Dr. Senckenbergisches Chronomedizinisches Institut, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Horst-Werner Korf
- Dr. Senckenbergische Anatomie II, Fachbereich Medizin, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Dr. Senckenbergisches Chronomedizinisches Institut, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Helmut Wicht
- Dr. Senckenbergische Anatomie II, Fachbereich Medizin, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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24
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Hou H, Uusküla-Reimand L, Makarem M, Corre C, Saleh S, Metcalf A, Goldenberg A, Palmert MR, Wilson MD. Gene expression profiling of puberty-associated genes reveals abundant tissue and sex-specific changes across postnatal development. Hum Mol Genet 2018; 26:3585-3599. [PMID: 28911201 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddx246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The timing of human puberty is highly variable, sexually dimorphic, and associated with adverse health outcomes. Over 20 genes carrying rare mutations have been identified in known pubertal disorders, many of which encode critical components of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified more than 100 candidate genes at loci associated with age at menarche or voice breaking in males. We know little about the spatial, temporal or postnatal expression patterns of the majority of these puberty-associated genes. Using a high-throughput and sensitive microfluidic quantitative PCR strategy, we profiled the gene expression patterns of the mouse orthologs of 178 puberty-associated genes in male and female mouse HPG axis tissues, the pineal gland, and the liver at five postnatal ages spanning the pubertal transition. The most dynamic gene expression changes were observed prior to puberty in all tissues. We detected known and novel tissue-enhanced gene expression patterns, with the hypothalamus expressing the largest number of the puberty-associated genes. Notably, over 40 puberty-associated genes in the pituitary gland showed sex-biased gene expression, most of which occurred peri-puberty. These sex-biased genes included the orthologs of candidate genes at GWAS loci that show sex-discordant effects on pubertal timing. Our findings provide new insight into the expression of puberty-associated genes and support the possibility that the pituitary plays a role in determining sex differences in the timing of puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huayun Hou
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Liis Uusküla-Reimand
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Gene Technology, Tallinn University of Technology, 12616 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Maisam Makarem
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Christina Corre
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Shems Saleh
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2E5, Canada
| | - Ariane Metcalf
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Anna Goldenberg
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2E5, Canada
| | - Mark R Palmert
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.,Division of Endocrinology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada.,Departments of Paediatrics and Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Michael D Wilson
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
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25
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Pfeffer M, Korf HW, Wicht H. The Role of the Melatoninergic System in Light-Entrained Behavior of Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18030530. [PMID: 28257037 PMCID: PMC5372546 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18030530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2017] [Revised: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of endogenous melatonin for the control of the circadian system under entrained conditions and for the determination of the chronotype is still poorly understood. Mice with deletions in the melatoninergic system (melatonin deficiency or the lack of melatonin receptors, respectively) do not display any obvious defects in either their spontaneous (circadian) or entrained (diurnal) rhythmic behavior. However, there are effects that can be detected by analyzing the periodicity of the locomotor behaviors in some detail. We found that melatonin-deficient mice (C57Bl), as well as melatonin-proficient C3H mice that lack the melatonin receptors (MT) 1 and 2 (C3H MT1,2 KO), reproduce their diurnal locomotor rhythms with significantly less accuracy than mice with an intact melatoninergic system. However, their respective chronotypes remained unaltered. These results show that one function of the endogenous melatoninergic system might be to stabilize internal rhythms under conditions of a steady entrainment, while it has no effects on the chronotype.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal
- Circadian Rhythm
- Light
- Male
- Melatonin/biosynthesis
- Melatonin/deficiency
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Motor Activity
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT1/deficiency
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT1/genetics
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT1/metabolism
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT2/deficiency
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT2/genetics
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT2/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Pfeffer
- Dr. Senckenbergische Anatomie II, Fachbereich Medizin, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- Dr. Senckenbergisches Chronomedizinisches Institut, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Horst-Werner Korf
- Dr. Senckenbergische Anatomie II, Fachbereich Medizin, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- Dr. Senckenbergisches Chronomedizinisches Institut, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Helmut Wicht
- Dr. Senckenbergische Anatomie II, Fachbereich Medizin, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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26
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Liu J, Clough SJ, Dubocovich ML. Role of the MT1and MT2melatonin receptors in mediating depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors in C3H/HeN mice. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2017; 16:546-553. [DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Revised: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences; University at Buffalo (SUNY); Buffalo NY USA
| | - S. J. Clough
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences; University at Buffalo (SUNY); Buffalo NY USA
| | - M. L. Dubocovich
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences; University at Buffalo (SUNY); Buffalo NY USA
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27
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Yu L, Liang H, Dong X, Zhao G, Jin Z, Zhai M, Yang Y, Chen W, Liu J, Yi W, Yang J, Yi D, Duan W, Yu S. Reduced silent information regulator 1 signaling exacerbates myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in type 2 diabetic rats and the protective effect of melatonin. J Pineal Res 2015; 59:376-90. [PMID: 26327197 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) increases myocardial oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Melatonin confers cardioprotective effect by suppressing oxidative damage. However, the effect and mechanism of melatonin on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (MI/R) injury in type 2 diabetic state are still unknown. In this study, we developed high-fat diet-fed streptozotocin (HFD-STZ) rat, a well-known type 2 diabetic model, to evaluate the effect of melatonin on MI/R injury with a focus on silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) signaling, oxidative stress, and PERK/eIF2α/ATF4-mediated ER stress. HFD-STZ treated rats were exposed to melatonin treatment in the presence or the absence of sirtinol (a SIRT1 inhibitor) and subjected to MI/R surgery. Compared with nondiabetic animals, type 2 diabetic rats exhibited significantly decreased myocardial SIRT1 signaling, increased apoptosis, enhanced oxidative stress, and ER stress. Additionally, further reduced SIRT1 signaling, aggravated oxidative damage, and ER stress were found in diabetic animals subjected to MI/R surgery. Melatonin markedly reduced MI/R injury by improving cardiac functional recovery and decreasing myocardial apoptosis in type 2 diabetic animals. Melatonin treatment up-regulated SIRT1 expression, reduced oxidative damage, and suppressed PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 signaling. However, these effects were all attenuated by SIRT1 inhibition. Melatonin also protected high glucose/high fat cultured H9C2 cardiomyocytes against simulated ischemia-reperfusion injury-induced ER stress by activating SIRT1 signaling while SIRT1 siRNA blunted this action. Taken together, our study demonstrates that reduced cardiac SIRT1 signaling in type 2 diabetic state aggravates MI/R injury. Melatonin ameliorates reperfusion-induced oxidative stress and ER stress via activation of SIRT1 signaling, thus reducing MI/R damage and improving cardiac function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hongliang Liang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaochao Dong
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guolong Zhao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, General Hospital, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Zhenxiao Jin
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Mengen Zhai
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wensheng Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jincheng Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei Yi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jian Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Dinghua Yi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Weixun Duan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shiqiang Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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28
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Rosenwasser AM, Fixaris MC, McCulley WD. Photoperiodic modulation of voluntary ethanol intake in C57BL/6 mice. Physiol Behav 2015; 147:342-7. [PMID: 25992479 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2015.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Revised: 05/13/2015] [Accepted: 05/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Seasonal and geographic variations in light exposure influence human mood and behavior, including alcohol consumption. Similarly, manipulation of the environmental lighting regimen modulates voluntary ethanol intake in experimental animals. Nevertheless, previous studies in rats and hamsters have been somewhat inconsistent, and little is known concerning such effects in mice. In the present study, we maintained male C57Bl/6 mice in running-wheel cages under either short- or long-photoperiod light-dark cycles (LD 6:18 vs. LD 18:6); subsequently, the same animals were maintained under short or long "skeleton photoperiods", consisting of two daily 15-min light pulses signaling dusk and dawn (SP 6:18 vs. SP 18:6). Running wheels were locked mechanically for half the animals under each photoperiod. Analysis of running wheel patterns showed that mice displayed stable circadian adaptation to both standard LD cycles and skeleton photoperiods. Mice consumed more ethanol and less water, and thus showed higher ethanol preference, under LD 6:18 and SP 6:18 relative to the corresponding long-photoperiod regimens. While running-wheel access increased water intake, ethanol intake was unaffected by this manipulation. These effects are consistent with previous studies showing that short photoperiods or constant darkness increases ethanol intake in rodents. Further, the similarity of the effects of complete and skeleton photoperiods suggests that these effects are mediated by photoperiod-induced alterations in the circadian entrainment pattern, rather than by light exposure per se.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Rosenwasser
- Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, United States; School of Biology and Ecology, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, United States; Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, United States.
| | - M C Fixaris
- Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, United States
| | - W D McCulley
- Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, United States
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29
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Expression of ectonucleotidases in the prosencephalon of melatonin-proficient C3H and melatonin-deficient C57Bl mice: spatial distribution and time-dependent changes. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 362:163-76. [PMID: 25959293 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2179-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular purines (ATP, ADP, AMP and adenosine) are important signaling molecules in the CNS. Levels of extracellular purines are regulated by enzymes located at the cell surface referred to as ectonucleotidases. Time-dependent changes in their expression could profoundly influence the availability of extracellular purines and thereby purinergic signaling. Using radioactive in situ hybridization, we analyzed the mRNA distribution of the enzymes NTPDase1, -2 and -3 and ecto-5'-nucleotidase in the prosencephalon of two mouse strains: melatonin-proficient C3H and melatonin-deficient C57Bl. The mRNAs of these enzymes were localized to specific brain regions, such as hippocampus, striatum, medial habenula and ventromedial hypothalamus. NTPDase3 expression was more widely distributed than previously thought. All ectonucleotidases investigated revealed a prominent time-dependent expression pattern. In C3H, the mRNA expression of all four enzymes gradually increased during the day and peaked during the night. In contrast, in C57Bl, ecto-5'-nucleotidase expression peaked at the beginning of the day and gradually decreased to trough levels at night. Recording of locomotor activity revealed higher daytime activity of C57Bl than of C3H. Our results indicate that the expression of ectonucleotidases varies according to time and genotype and suggest that melatonin exerts modulatory effects associated with different regulations of purinergic signaling in the brain. These findings provide an important basis for further examination of the complexity of the purinergic system in the brain.
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30
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Adamah-Biassi EB, Hudson RL, Dubocovich ML. Genetic deletion of MT1 melatonin receptors alters spontaneous behavioral rhythms in male and female C57BL/6 mice. Horm Behav 2014; 66:619-27. [PMID: 25200199 PMCID: PMC4698802 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2014.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2014] [Revised: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Behaviors vary over the 24h light/dark cycle and these temporal patterns reflect in part modulation by circadian neural circuits and hormones, such as melatonin. The goal of this study was to investigate the involvement of MT1 melatonin receptors in behavioral regulation by comparing male and female C57 wild type (WT) mice with C57 mice with genetic deletion of the MT1 receptor (MT1KO). A comprehensive array of fifteen distinct spontaneous behaviors was recorded continuously in the homecage over multiple days using the HomeCageScan system. Behaviors assessed were activity-like (i.e. come down, hang, jump, walk), exploration-like (i.e. dig, groom, rear up, sniff, stretch), resting-like (i.e. awake, remain low, rest, twitch) and ingestion-like (i.e. drink, eat). Phenotypic array and temporal distribution analysis revealed distinct behavioral rhythms that differed between WT and MT1KO mice. The rhythms were consistent from day to day in males and varied with the estrous cycle in females. We also studied the role of MT1 receptors on depressive and anxiety-like behaviors. Genetic deletion of MT1 receptors increased immobility time in the forced swim test and decreased the number of marbles buried in the marble burying test in both male and female C57 mice. We conclude that MT1 melatonin receptors are involved in neural pathways modulating diurnal rhythms of spontaneous behavior in the homecage as well as pathways regulating depressive and anxiolytic-like behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- E B Adamah-Biassi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - R L Hudson
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - M L Dubocovich
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
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31
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Adrenergic activation of melatonin secretion in ovine pineal explants in short-term superfusion culture occurs via protein synthesis independent and dependent phenomena. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:715708. [PMID: 25133175 PMCID: PMC4123513 DOI: 10.1155/2014/715708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Revised: 06/23/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The ovine pineal is generally considered as an interesting model for the study on adrenergic regulation of melatonin secretion due to some functional similarities with this gland in the human. The present investigations, performed in the superfusion culture of pineal explants, demonstrated that the norepinephrine-induced elevation of melatonin secretion in ovine pinealocytes comprised of two subsequent periods: a rapid increase phase and a slow increase phase. The first one included the quick rise in release of N-acetylserotonin and melatonin, occurring parallel to elevation of NE concentration in the medium surrounding explants. This rapid increase phase was not affected by inhibition of translation. The second, slow increase phase began after NE level had reached the maximum concentration in the culture medium and lasted about two hours. It was completely abolished by the treatment with translation inhibitors. The obtained results showed for the first time that the regulation of N-acetylserotonin synthesis in pinealocytes of some species like the sheep involves the on/off mechanism, which is completely independent of protein synthesis and works very fast. They provided strong evidence pointing to the need of revision of the current opinion that arylalkylamines N-acetyltransferase activity in pinealocytes is controlled exclusively by changes in enzyme abundance.
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32
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Rath MF, Rovsing L, Møller M. Circadian oscillators in the mouse brain: molecular clock components in the neocortex and cerebellar cortex. Cell Tissue Res 2014; 357:743-55. [PMID: 24842045 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-1878-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The circadian timekeeper of the mammalian brain resides in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus (SCN), and is characterized by rhythmic expression of a set of clock genes with specific 24-h daily profiles. An increasing amount of data suggests that additional circadian oscillators residing outside the SCN have the capacity to generate peripheral circadian rhythms. We have recently shown the presence of SCN-controlled oscillators in the neocortex and cerebellum of the rat. The function of these peripheral brain clocks is unknown, and elucidating this could involve mice with conditional cell-specific clock gene deletions. This prompted us to analyze the molecular clockwork of the mouse neocortex and cerebellum in detail. Here, by use of in situ hybridization and quantitative RT-PCR, we show that clock genes are expressed in all six layers of the neocortex and the Purkinje and granular cell layers of the cerebellar cortex of the mouse brain. Among these, Per1, Per2, Cry1, Arntl, and Nr1d1 exhibit circadian rhythms suggesting that local running circadian oscillators reside within neurons of the mouse neocortex and cerebellar cortex. The temporal expression profiles of clock genes are similar in the neocortex and cerebellum, but they are delayed by 5 h as compared to the SCN, suggestively reflecting a master-slave relationship between the SCN and extra-hypothalamic oscillators. Furthermore, ARNTL protein products are detectable in neurons of the mouse neocortex and cerebellum, as revealed by immunohistochemistry. These findings give reason to further pursue the physiological significance of circadian oscillators in the mouse neocortex and cerebellum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin F Rath
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet 6102, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen, DK-2100, Denmark,
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Hutchinson AJ, Ma J, Liu J, Hudson RL, Dubocovich ML. Role of MT1 melatonin receptors in methamphetamine-induced locomotor sensitization in C57BL/6 mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:257-67. [PMID: 23934259 PMCID: PMC4696604 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3228-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2012] [Accepted: 07/26/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Melatonin modifies physiological and behavioral responses to psychostimulants, with the MT₁ and MT₂ melatonin receptors specifically implicated in facilitating methamphetamine (METH)-induced sensitization in melatonin-proficient mice. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study is to assess differences in locomotor sensitization after a single dose of methamphetamine in low-melatonin-expressing C57BL/6 wild-type and MT₁ receptor knockout (MT₁KO) mice, comparing with melatonin-expressing C3H/HeN mice. METHODS Mice received a vehicle or methamphetamine (1.2 mg/kg, i.p.) pretreatment (day 1) during the light (ZT5-9) or dark (ZT 19-21) periods in novel test arenas. Locomotor sensitization was assessed by methamphetamine challenge after an eight-day abstinence (day 9). TH protein expression was evaluated by immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis. RESULTS Methamphetamine pretreatment induced statistically significant locomotor sensitization upon challenge after eight-day abstinence in C3H and C57 wild-type mice during the light period. The magnitude of sensitization in C57 mice was diminished in the dark period and completely abrogated in MT₁KO mice. No differences were observed in tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity in the mesolimbic dopamine system. Additional exposures to the test arenas after methamphetamine pretreatment (nights 2-6) enhanced sensitization. CONCLUSIONS Deletion of the MT₁ melatonin receptor abolishes sensitization induced by a single METH pretreatment. The magnitude of sensitization is also altered by time of day and contextual cues. We conclude that the MT₁ melatonin receptor is emerging as a novel target of therapeutic intervention for drug abuse disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J. Hutchinson
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, 3435 Main Street, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14221
| | - Jason Ma
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, 3435 Main Street, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14221
| | - Jiabei Liu
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, 3435 Main Street, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14221
| | - Randall L. Hudson
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, 3435 Main Street, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14221
| | - Margarita L. Dubocovich
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, 3435 Main Street, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14221
- Corresponding Author. Margarita L. Dubocovich, Ph.D., Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, 3435 Main Street (Farber Hall 102), University at Buffalo; Buffalo, NY 14221, Phone: 1-716-829-3048, Fax: 1-716-829-2801,
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Liu J, Somera-Molina KC, Hudson RL, Dubocovich ML. Melatonin potentiates running wheel-induced neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus of adult C3H/HeN mice hippocampus. J Pineal Res 2013; 54:222-31. [PMID: 23190173 PMCID: PMC3568494 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/28/2012] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
This study assessed the role of melatonin in modulating running wheel(RW)-induced hippocampal neurogenesis in adult C3H/HeN mice. Chronic melatonin (0.02 mg/mL, oral for 12 days) treatment did not affect cell proliferation or cell survival determined by the number of BrdU-positive cells in dentate gyrus of mice with access to fixed wheel (FW). RW activity significantly increased cell proliferation [RW (n = 8) versus FW (n = 6): dorsal, 199 ± 18 versus 125 ± 12, P < 0.01; ventral, 211 ± 15 versus 123 ± 13, P < 0.01] and newborn cell survival [RW (n = 7) versus FW (n = 8): dorsal, 45 ± 8.5 versus 15 ± 1.8, P < 0.01; ventral, 48 ± 8.1 versus 15 ± 1.4)] in the dorsal and ventral dentate gyrus. Oral melatonin treatment further potentiated RW activity-induced cell survival in both areas of the dentate gyrus [melatonin (n = 10) versus vehicle (n = 7): dorsal, 63 ± 5.4 versus 45 ± 8.5 P < 0.05; ventral, 75 ± 7.9 versus 48 ± 8.1, P < 0.01] and neurogenesis [melatonin (n = 8) versus vehicle (n = 8): dorsal, 46 ± 3.4, versus 34 ± 4.5, P < 0.05; ventral, 41 ± 3.4 versus 25 ± 2.4, P < 0.01]. We conclude that melatonin potentiates RW-induced hippocampal neurogenesis by enhancing neuronal survival suggesting that the combination of physical exercise and melatonin may be an effective treatment for diseases affecting the hippocampus neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiabei Liu
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Kathleen C. Somera-Molina
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Biological Chemistry, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Randall L. Hudson
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Margarita L. Dubocovich
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Biological Chemistry, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Adamah-Biassi EB, Stepien I, Hudson RL, Dubocovich ML. Automated video analysis system reveals distinct diurnal behaviors in C57BL/6 and C3H/HeN mice. Behav Brain Res 2013; 243:306-12. [PMID: 23337734 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Revised: 12/31/2012] [Accepted: 01/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Advances in rodent behavior dissection using automated video recording and analysis allows detailed phenotyping. This study compared and contrasted 15 diurnal behaviors recorded continuously using an automated behavioral analysis system for a period of 14 days under a 14/10 light/dark cycle in single housed C3H/HeN (C3H) or C57BL/6 (C57) male mice. Diurnal behaviors, recorded with minimal experimental interference and analyzed using phenotypic array and temporal distribution analysis showed bimodal and unimodal profiles in the C57 and C3H mice, respectively. Phenotypic array analysis revealed distinct behavioral rhythms in Activity-Like Behaviors (i.e. walk, hang, jump, come down) (ALB), Exploration-Like Behaviors (i.e. dig, groom, rear up, sniff, stretch) (ELB), Ingestion-Like Behaviors (i.e. drink, eat) (ILB) and Resting-Like Behaviors (i.e. awake, remain low, rest, twitch) (RLB) of C3H and C57 mice. Temporal distribution analysis demonstrated that strain and time of day affects the magnitude and distribution of the spontaneous homecage behaviors. Wheel running activity, water and food measurements correlated with timing of homecage behaviors. Subcutaneous (3 mg/kg, sc) or oral (0.02 mg/ml, oral) melatonin treatments in C57 mice did not modify either the total 24 h magnitude or temporal distribution of homecage behaviors when compared with vehicle treatments. We conclude that C3H and C57 mice show different spontaneous activity and behavioral rhythms specifically during the night period which are not modulated by melatonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- E B Adamah-Biassi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo SUNY, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States
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Fischer C, Christ E, Korf HW, von Gall C. Tafa-3 encoding for a secretory peptide is expressed in the mouse pars tuberalis and is affected by melatonin 1 receptor deficiency. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2012; 177:98-103. [PMID: 22426341 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2012.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2012] [Revised: 02/24/2012] [Accepted: 02/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The hypophysial pars tuberalis (PT) is an important interface between neuroendocrine brain centers (hypothalamus, pineal organ) and the anterior lobe of the hypophysis (PD). The best investigated role of the PT is the control of seasonally changing functions. In mammals, melatonin secreted from the pineal organ represents a major input signal to the PT. By acting upon melatonin type 1 receptors (MT1) melatonin controls the functional activity of the PT. Most interestingly, the PT sends its output signals in two directions: via a "retrograde" pathway to the hypothalamus and via an "anterograde" pathway to the PD. TSH has been identified as "retrograde" messenger, while endocannabinoids function as messengers of the "anterograde" pathway. Here we show in mice that the PT expresses Tafa-3 encoding for a secretory peptide. In the PT of wild type mice Tafa-3 mRNA levels varied between day and night: they were low at mid-day and high at mid-night. This day/night difference was not observed in the PT of mice with a targeted deletion of the MT1 receptor indicating that Tafa-3 mRNA expression in the PT is controlled by melatonin acting through the MT1 receptor. Notably, Tafa-3 expression was not restricted to the PT, but was also found in other brain regions, such as the hippocampus, the habenular and thalamic nuclei. In these regions, Tafa-3 expression did not display a day/night difference and was not affected by MT1-deficiency. Thus, Tafa-3 expression appears to be controlled by region-specific mechanisms. Our data suggest that TAFA-3 is a signaling molecule from the PT and provides further evidence for the emerging concept that the PT rather than relying upon highly organ-specific messengers employs a cocktail of signaling molecules that also operate in other brain systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Fischer
- Dr. Senckenbergische Anatomie, Institut für Anatomie II, Goethe-Universität, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt/M, Germany
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Pfeffer M, Rauch A, Korf HW, von Gall C. The endogenous melatonin (MT) signal facilitates reentrainment of the circadian system to light-induced phase advances by acting upon MT2 receptors. Chronobiol Int 2012; 29:415-29. [PMID: 22489607 DOI: 10.3109/07420528.2012.667859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The indolamine melatonin is an important rhythmic endocrine signal in the circadian system. Exogenous melatonin can entrain circadian rhythms in physiology and behavior, but the role of endogenous melatonin and the two membrane-bound melatonin receptor types, MT1 and MT2, in reentrainment of daily rhythms to light-induced phase shifts is not understood. The present study analyzed locomotor activity rhythms and clock protein levels in the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) of melatonin-deficient (C57BL/6J) and melatonin-proficient (C3H/HeN) mice, as well as in melatonin-proficient (C3H/HeN) mice with targeted deletion of the MT1, MT2, or both receptors, to determine effects associated with phase delays or phase advances of the light/dark (LD) cycle. In all mouse strains and genotypes, reentrainment of locomotor activity rhythms was significantly faster after a 6-h phase delay than a 6-h phase advance. Reentrainment after the phase advance was, however, significantly slower than in melatonin-deficient animals and in mice lacking functional MT2 receptors than melatonin-proficient animals with intact MT2 receptors. To investigate whether these behavioral differences coincide with differences in reentrainment of clock protein levels in the SCN, mPER1, mCRY1 immunoreactions were compared between control mice kept under the original LD cycle and killed at zeitgeber time 04 (ZT04) or at ZT10, respectively, and experimental mice subjected to a 6-h phase advance of the LD cycle and sacrificed at ZT10 on the third day after phase advance. This ZT corresponds to ZT04 of the original LD cycle. Under the original LD cycle, the numbers of mPER1- and mCRY1-immunoreactive cell nuclei were low at ZT04 and high at ZT10 in the SCN of all mouse strains and genotypes investigated. Notably, mouse strains with intact melatonin signaling and functional MT2 receptors showed a significant increase in the number of mPER1- and mCRY1-immunoreactive cell nuclei at the new ZT10 as compared to the former ZT04. These data suggest the endogenous melatonin signal facilitates reentrainment of the circadian system to phase advances on the level of the SCN molecular clockwork by acting upon MT2 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Pfeffer
- Dr. Senckenbergische Anatomie, Institut Fachbereich Medizin, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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Distinct patterns of Period gene expression in the suprachiasmatic nucleus underlie circadian clock photoentrainment by advances or delays. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:17219-24. [PMID: 21969555 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1107848108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The circadian clock in the mammalian hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) is entrained by the ambient light/dark cycle, which differentially acts to cause the clock to advance or delay. Light-induced changes in the rhythmic expression of SCN clock genes are believed to be a critical step in this process, but how the two entrainment modalities--advances vs. delays--engage the molecular clockwork remains incompletely understood. We investigated molecular substrates of photic entrainment of the clock in the SCN by stably entraining hamsters to T cycles (non-24-h light/dark cycles) consisting of a single 1-h light pulse repeated as either a short (23.33-h) or a long (24.67-h) cycle; under these conditions, the light pulse of the short cycle acts as "dawn," whereas that of the long cycle acts as "dusk." Analyses of the expression of the photoinducible and rhythmic clock genes Period 1 and 2 (Per1 and Per2) in the SCN revealed fundamental differences under these two entrainment modes. Light at dawn advanced the clock, advancing the onset of the Per1 mRNA rhythm and acutely increasing mRNA transcription, whereas light at dusk delayed the clock, delaying the offset of the Per2 mRNA rhythm and tonically increasing mRNA stability. The results suggest that the underlying molecular mechanisms of circadian entrainment differ with morning (advancing) or evening (delaying) light exposure, and such differences may reflect how entrainment takes place in nocturnal animals under natural conditions.
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Stehle JH, Saade A, Rawashdeh O, Ackermann K, Jilg A, Sebestény T, Maronde E. A survey of molecular details in the human pineal gland in the light of phylogeny, structure, function and chronobiological diseases. J Pineal Res 2011; 51:17-43. [PMID: 21517957 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2011.00856.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 305] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The human pineal gland is a neuroendocrine transducer that forms an integral part of the brain. Through the nocturnally elevated synthesis and release of the neurohormone melatonin, the pineal gland encodes and disseminates information on circadian time, thus coupling the outside world to the biochemical and physiological internal demands of the body. Approaches to better understand molecular details behind the rhythmic signalling in the human pineal gland are limited but implicitly warranted, as human chronobiological dysfunctions are often associated with alterations in melatonin synthesis. Current knowledge on melatonin synthesis in the human pineal gland is based on minimally invasive analyses, and by the comparison of signalling events between different vertebrate species, with emphasis put on data acquired in sheep and other primates. Together with investigations using autoptic pineal tissue, a remnant silhouette of premortem dynamics within the hormone's biosynthesis pathway can be constructed. The detected biochemical scenario behind the generation of dynamics in melatonin synthesis positions the human pineal gland surprisingly isolated. In this neuroendocrine brain structure, protein-protein interactions and nucleo-cytoplasmic protein shuttling indicate furthermore a novel twist in the molecular dynamics in the cells of this neuroendocrine brain structure. These findings have to be seen in the light that an impaired melatonin synthesis is observed in elderly and/or demented patients, in individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease, Smith-Magenis syndrome, autism spectrum disorder and sleep phase disorders. Already, recent advances in understanding signalling dynamics in the human pineal gland have significantly helped to counteract chronobiological dysfunctions through a proper restoration of the nocturnal melatonin surge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörg H Stehle
- Institute of Anatomy III (Cellular and Molecular Anatomy), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
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40
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Christ E, Pfeffer M, Korf H, von Gall C. Pineal melatonin synthesis is altered in Period1 deficient mice. Neuroscience 2010; 171:398-406. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2010.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2010] [Revised: 08/16/2010] [Accepted: 09/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Welp A, Manz B, Peschke E. Development and validation of a high throughput direct radioimmunoassay for the quantitative determination of serum and plasma melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) in mice. J Immunol Methods 2010; 358:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2010.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2010] [Revised: 03/10/2010] [Accepted: 03/25/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Unfried C, Burbach G, Korf HW, von Gall C. Melatonin receptor 1-dependent gene expression in the mouse pars tuberalis as revealed by cDNA microarray analysis and in situ hybridization. J Pineal Res 2010; 48:148-56. [PMID: 20070488 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2009.00738.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin is an important rhythmic endocrine signal within the circadian system of mammals. The hypophyseal pars tuberalis (PT) is a major target for melatonin and shows a high density of melatonin type 1 receptors (MT1). Melatonin affects expression of clock genes in PT cells which encode for transcriptional regulators of rhythmic gene expression. In this study, microarray analysis was performed to screen for genes coding for transcriptional regulators under the control of MT1 receptors in the mouse PT. Gene expression levels were compared between melatonin-proficient mice deficient for MT1 (MT1-/-) and the corresponding wild-type (WT) during mid-subjective day (CT06, low endogenous melatonin levels) and mid-subjective night (CT18, high endogenous melatonin levels). In situ hybridization was used to validate the data obtained by microarray analysis to analyze the acute effect of daytime melatonin application on gene expression in the wild-type PT. In the wild-type PT, expression of Tim was higher during day as compared to night. These day/night differences in gene expression were not observed in the PT of MT1-/- mice, demonstrating the impact of MT1-mediated signal transduction pathway. Day-time application of melatonin acutely affected Tim and Cry1 expression but not Neurod1 and Npas4 expression. We conclude that melatonin regulates expression of genes coding for transcriptional regulators in the PT through MT1 receptors by either acute or long-term mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Unfried
- Dr Senckenbergische Anatomie, Institut für Anatomie II, Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt/M, Germany
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Yang AJ, Li CC, Lu CY, Liu KL, Tsai CW, Lii CK, Chen HW. Activation of the cAMP/CREB/inducible cAMP early repressor pathway suppresses andrographolide-induced gene expression of the pi class of glutathione S-transferase in rat primary hepatocytes. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2010; 58:1993-2000. [PMID: 20063885 DOI: 10.1021/jf902221j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Andrographolide (Ap) is a bioactive compound in Andrographis paniculata that is a Chinese herb. The pi class of glutathione S-transferase (GSTP) is one kind of phase II detoxification enzyme. Here we show that induction of GSTP protein and mRNA expression in rat primary hepatocytes by Ap was inhibited by forskolin and a variety of cAMP analogues. The inhibitory effect of the cAMP analogues was partially blocked by pretreatment with H89. In the presence of Ap, forskolin, or both, the expression of phospho-cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) was increased. Ap alone had no effect on inducible cAMP early repressor (ICER) mRNA expression; however, Ap played a potentiating role in forskolin-induced ICER mRNA expression. An EMSA and immunoprecipitation assay showed that ICER binding to cAMP-response element (CRE) was increased in cells cotreated with Ap and forskolin for 3 and 8 h. Taken together, these results suggest that ICER is likely to be involved in the suppression of Ap-induced GSTP expression caused by the increase of cAMP in rat primary hepatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai-Jen Yang
- Department of Nutrition, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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Physiology and pharmacology of melatonin in relation to biological rhythms. Pharmacol Rep 2009; 61:383-410. [PMID: 19605939 DOI: 10.1016/s1734-1140(09)70081-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2008] [Revised: 05/01/2009] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin is an evolutionarily conserved molecule that serves a time-keeping function in various species. In vertebrates, melatonin is produced predominantly by the pineal gland with a marked circadian rhythm that is governed by the central circadian pacemaker (biological clock) in the suprachiasmatic nuclei of the hypothalamus. High levels of melatonin are normally found at night, and low levels are seen during daylight hours. As a consequence, melatonin has been called the "darkness hormone". This review surveys the current state of knowledge regarding the regulation of melatonin synthesis, receptor expression, and function. In particular, it addresses the physiological, pathological, and therapeutic aspects of melatonin in humans, with an emphasis on biological rhythms.
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Unfried C, Ansari N, Yasuo S, Korf HW, von Gall C. Impact of melatonin and molecular clockwork components on the expression of thyrotropin beta-chain (Tshb) and the Tsh receptor in the mouse pars tuberalis. Endocrinology 2009; 150:4653-62. [PMID: 19589858 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-0609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Photoperiodic regulation of reproduction in birds and mammals involves thyrotropin beta-chain (TSHb), which is secreted from the pars tuberalis (PT) and controls the expression of deiodinase type 2 and 3 in the ependymal cell layer of the infundibular recess (EC) via TSH receptors (TSHRs). To analyze the impact of melatonin and the molecular clockwork on the expression of Tshb and Tshr, we investigated melatonin-proficient C3H wild-type (WT), melatonin receptor 1-deficient (MT1-/-) or clockprotein PERIOD1-deficient (mPER1-/-) mice. Expression of Tshb and TSHb immunoreactivity in PT were low during day and high during the night in WT, high during the day and low during the night in mPER1-deficient, and equally high during the day and night in MT1-deficient mice. Melatonin injections into WT acutely suppressed Tshb expression. Transcription assays showed that the 5' upstream region of the Tshb gene could be controlled by clockproteins. Tshr levels in PT were low during the day and high during the night in WT and mPER1-deficient mice and equally low in MT1-deficient mice. Tshr expression in the EC did not show a day/night variation. Melatonin injections into WT acutely induced Tshr expression in PT but not in EC. TSH stimulation of hypothalamic slice cultures of WT induced phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein in PT and EC and deiodinase type 2 in the EC. Our data suggest that Tshb expression in PT is controlled by melatonin and the molecular clockwork and that melatonin activates Tshr expression in PT but not in EC. They also confirm the functional importance of TSHR in the PT and EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Unfried
- Emmy Noether-Nachwuchsgruppe, Institut für Anatomie II, Goethe-Universität, D-60590 Frankfurt/M, Germany
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Gómez-Corvera A, Cerrillo I, Molinero P, Naranjo MC, Lardone PJ, Sanchez-Hidalgo M, Carrascosa-Salmoral MP, Medrano-Campillo P, Guerrero JM, Rubio A. Evidence of immune system melatonin production by two pineal melatonin deficient mice, C57BL/6 and Swiss strains. J Pineal Res 2009; 47:15-22. [PMID: 19522737 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2009.00683.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We evaluated two pineal melatonin deficient mice described in the literature, i.e., C57BL/6 and Swiss mice, as animal models for studying the immunomodulatory action of melatonin. Plasma melatonin levels in C57BL/6 and Swiss strains were detectable, but lower than levels in control C3H/HENHSD mice. Since these strains are suppose to be pineal melatonin deficient an extrapineal melatonin synthesis may contribute to plasma levels. Regarding cells and tissues from the immune system, all of them were found to synthesize melatonin although at low levels. N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) mRNA was also amplified in order to analyze the alternative splicing between exons 3-4 described for pineal C57BL/6 mice which generates an inclusion of a pseudoexon of 102 bp. For the pineal gland, both the wild type and the mutant isoforms were present in all mice strains although in different proportions. We observed a predominant wild type AANAT mature RNA in thymus, spleen and bone marrow cells. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) culture shown an evident AANAT amplification in all strains studied. Although the bands detected were less intense in melatonin deficient mice, the amplification almost reached the control cell intensity after stimulation with phytohemaglutinin (PHA). In summary, melatonin detection and AANAT mRNA expression in inbred and outbred mice clearly indicate that different cells and tissues from the immune system are able to synthesize melatonin. Thus, the pineal defect seems not to be generalized to all tissues, suggesting that other cells may compensate the low pineal melatonin production contributing to the measurable plasma melatonin level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Araceli Gómez-Corvera
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The School of Medicine, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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Abstract
Metabolism of melatonin (MEL) in mouse was evaluated through a metabolomic analysis of urine samples from control and MEL-treated mice. Besides identifying seven known MEL metabolites (6-hydroxymelatonin glucuronide, 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate, N-acetylserotonin glucuronide, N-acetylserotonin sulfate, 6-hydroxymelatonin, 2-oxomelatonin, 3-hydroxymelatonin), principal components analysis of urinary metabolomes also uncovered seven new MEL metabolites, including MEL glucuronide, cyclic MEL, cyclic N-acetylserotonin glucuronide, cyclic 6-hydroxymelatonin; 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetaldehyde, di-hydroxymelatonin and its glucuronide conjugate. However, N(1)-acetyl-N(2)-formyl-5-methoxy-kynuramine and N(1)-acetyl-5-methoxy-kynuramine, known as MEL antioxidant products, were not detected in mouse urine. Metabolite profiling of MEL further indicated that 6-hydroxymelatonin glucuronide was the most abundant MEL metabolite in mouse urine, which comprised 75, 65, and 88% of the total MEL metabolites in CBA, C57/BL6, and 129Sv mice, respectively. Chemical identity of 6-hydroxymelatonin glucuronide was confirmed by deconjugation reactions using beta-glucuronidase and sulfatase. Compared with wild-type and CYP1A2-humanized mice, Cyp1a2-null mice yielded much less 6-hydroxymelatonin glucuronide (approximately 10%) but more N-acetylserotonin glucuronide (approximately 195%) and MEL glucuronide (approximately 220%) in urine. In summary, MEL metabolism in mouse was recharacterized by using a metabolomic approach, and the MEL metabolic map was extended to include seven known and seven novel pathways. This study also confirmed that 6-hydroxymelatonin glucuronide was the major MEL metabolite in the mouse, and suggested that there was no interspecies difference between humans and mice with regard to CYP1A2-mediated metabolism of MEL, but a significant difference in phase II conjugation, yielding 6-hydroxymelatonin glucuronide in the mouse and 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochao Ma
- Laboratory of Metabolism, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Maronde E, Pfeffer M, Glass Y, Stehle JH. Transcription factor dynamics in pineal gland and liver of the Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) adapts to prevailing photoperiod. J Pineal Res 2007; 43:16-24. [PMID: 17614831 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2007.00438.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The anticipation of day length and duration of darkness is necessary and advantageous for animals to survive and requires a photoperiodic memory. In the Syrian hamster this adaptation to photoperiod is mirrored by seasonal changes in the animal's reproductive state and its liver metabolism. Both events are linked to season-dependent alterations of the nocturnally elevated synthesis of the pineal hormone melatonin. To decipher molecules that are involved in this temporal gating, hamsters were exposed to long photoperiod (16 hr light:8 hr darkness; LP), or short photoperiod (8 hr light:16 hr darkness; SP). Dynamics in gene expression was investigated in the pineal gland [inducible cAMP early repressor (ICER)], and in the liver (ICER; C/EBPdelta; clock genes) using immunochemistry and reverse transcriptase PCR. While in the pineal, ICER rhythms tightly follow the prior duration of light and dark with decreasing levels at the beginning of the dark period in both LP and SP, ICER is not rhythmic in liver. In the liver, clock genes and their protein products reflect differences in photoperiodic history, with enhanced rhythm amplitudes of PER, CRY, CLOCK, and BMAL1 under SP conditions. Thus, in the Syrian hamster transcription factor expression patterns lock onto the prevailing photoperiod in two peripheral oscillators, the pineal gland and the liver, to function as mediators of suprachiasmatic nucleus-derived information on environmental light and dark. This tissue-specific gating in gene transcription represents a strategy to ameliorate consequences of altering environmental lighting conditions on endocrine and metabolic parameters that endow a strong circadian bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Maronde
- Dr Senckenbergische Anatomie, Institute of Anatomy III, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt Frankfurt/Main, Germany
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Ackermann K, Stehle JH. Melatonin synthesis in the human pineal gland: advantages, implications, and difficulties. Chronobiol Int 2006; 23:369-79. [PMID: 16687310 DOI: 10.1080/07420520500464379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Rhythms in the mammalian pineal organ depend on afferent information that is derived from the endogenous clock residing in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The best characterized function of the pineal gland is the nocturnally elevated synthesis of the hormone melatonin, which provides the body with the signal of the duration of the night period. The rate-limiting enzyme for melatonin synthesis is arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT). In contrast to the transcriptional regulation of the Aanat gene in rodents, a post-translational shaping of the melatonin pattern is indicated in the human pineal gland. Despite the fact that melatonin levels can be determined easily in various body fluids, the molecular elements involved in shaping the rhythmic hormone synthesis cannot be analyzed experimentally in the living organism. However, the use of post-mortem pineal material seems to constitute a valid approach to decipher the regulation of human melatonin synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Ackermann
- Dr. Senckenbergische Anatomie, Institute of Anatomy III, University Frankfurt, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
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50
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Chansard M, Liang J, Iwahana E, Baker T, Whittaker J, Fukuhara C. Role of calcium in the gating of isoproterenol-induced arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase gene expression in the mouse pineal gland. J Pineal Res 2006; 41:85-94. [PMID: 16842546 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2006.00341.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin and its autonomic regulation serve important physiological functions. We recently demonstrated that stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors only increases nighttime arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (Aa-Nat, the rate-limiting enzyme in melatonin synthesis) mRNA levels in mouse pineal gland in vitro, which suggests that pineal clocks may gate Aa-Nat gene expression. In the present study, our data reveal that cAMP analog increased Aa-Nat at any time of day but only in the presence of ionomycin. Using Fura-2AM in ratiometric calcium measurements, we show that isoproterenol stimulation increased intracellular free calcium levels at night, contrary to previous reports. Further, intra- or extracellular calcium depletion suppressed the isoproterenol-induced calcium responses as well as Aa-Nat gene expression. These results suggest calcium may be a critical factor in isoproterenol-induced Aa-Nat gene expression, which may be limited in the daytime. We also found that basal intracellular calcium levels were lower during the night and responses to isoproterenol and KCl depolarization were more robust. In addition, pineals of Cryptochrome mutant mice exhibited no significant difference between day and nighttime basal calcium or isoproterenol response. Together, these results suggest that basal calcium levels in the pineal may be controlled by the endogenous pineal clock, which may influence calcium dynamics, cellular homeostasis and sensitivity to external stimulation. Although the mechanism underlying Aa-Nat gene expression has been well studied, the role of calcium as a link between the pineal clock and Aa-Nat gene expression has been underestimated in rodent pineals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Chansard
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310-1495, USA
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