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Liu-Fu S, Pan JQ, Sun JF, Shen X, Jiang DL, Ouyang HJ, Xu DN, Tian YB, Huang YM. Effect of immunization against OPN5 on the reproductive performance in Shan Partridge ducks under different photoperiods. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103413. [PMID: 38442558 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103413] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Photoperiod is an important environmental factor that influences seasonal reproduction behavior in birds. Birds translate photoperiodic information into neuroendocrine signals through deep brain photoreceptors (DBPs). OPN5 has been considered candidate DBPs involved in regulating seasonal reproduction in birds. We found that OPN5 could mediate light to regulate the follicle development in ducks. In this study, we further verified the effect of OPN5 on follicular development in Shan Partridge ducks by immunizing against the extracellular domain (ECD) of OPN5. We investigated the specific regulatory mechanism of photoperiod mediated by OPN5 on the reproductive activity of ducks. The trial randomly divided 120 Shan Partridge ducks into 3 groups with different treatments: the immunization of OPN5 group was done at d0, d15, d30, and d40 with 1 mL of vaccine containing OPN5 protein (thus containing 1, 1, 0.5, and 0.5 mg of OPN5-KLH protein), and the control group (CS and CL groups) was injected at the same time with the same dose of OPN5-uncontained blank vaccine. The group of CS (900 lux), OPN5 (600 lux), and CL (600 lux) lasted for 40 d in 12 L:12 D photoperiods, respectively. Then, the groups of CS, OPN5, and CL subsequently received 12 L:12 D, 12 L:12 D, and 17 L:7 D light treatments for 33 d, respectively. The ducks were caged in 3 constant rooms with the same feeding conditions for each group, free water, and limited feeding (150 g per duck each day). Duck serum and tissue samples were collected at d 40, d 62, and d 73 (n = 12). It was found that before prolonged light, the group of immunization (group OPN5) and the group of strong light intensity (group CS) were higher than the group of CL in egg production. Subsequent to prolonged light, the group CL in egg production rose about the same as the group immunization, while the strong light group (group CS) was lower. Group OPN5 increased the ovarian index of ducks, and both the immunization of group OPN5 and group CL (extended light) increased the thickness of the granular layer and promoted the secretion of E2, P4, LH, and PRL hormones. Compared with group CS, group CL and OPN5 increased the mRNA level and protein expression of OPN5 in the hypothalamus on d 62 and d 73 (P < 0.05). The gene or protein expression patterns of GnRH, TRH, TSHβ, DIO2, THRβ, VIP, and PRL were positively correlated with OPN5, whereas the gene expression patterns of GnIH and DIO3 were negatively correlated with OPN5. The results showed that immunization against OPN5 could activate the corresponding transmembrane receptors to promote the expression of OPN5, up-regulate the expression of TSHβ and DIO2, and then regulate the HPG axis-related genes to facilitate the follicular development of Shan Partridge ducks. In addition, in this experiment, prolonging the photoperiod or enhancing the light intensity could also enhance follicle development, but the effect was not as significant as immunizing against OPN5. Our results will offer beneficial data and more supportive shreds of evidence in favor of elucidating the role of OPN5 in relation to photoperiods and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sui Liu-Fu
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China
| | - Jian-Qiu Pan
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China
| | - Jun-Feng Sun
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China
| | - Xu Shen
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China
| | - Dan-Li Jiang
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China
| | - Hong-Jia Ouyang
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China
| | - Dan-Ning Xu
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China
| | - Yun-Bo Tian
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yun-Mao Huang
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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He Z, Ouyang Q, Chen Q, Song Y, Hu J, Hu S, He H, Li L, Liu H, Wang J. Molecular mechanisms of hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian/thyroid axis regulating age at first egg in geese. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103478. [PMID: 38295497 PMCID: PMC10844868 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103478] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Age at first egg (AFE) has consistently garnered interest as a crucial reproductive indicator within poultry production. Previous studies have elucidated the involvement of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) and hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axes in regulating poultry sexual maturity. Concurrently, there was evidence suggesting a potential co-regulatory relationship between these 2 axes. However, as of now, no comprehensive exploration of the key pathways and genes responsible for the crosstalk between the HPO and HPT axes in the regulation of AFE has been reported. In this study, we conducted a comparative analysis of morphological differences and performed transcriptomic analysis on the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, and ovarian stroma between normal laying group (NG) and abnormal laying group (AG). Morphological results showed that the thyroid index difference (D-) value (thyroid index D-value=right thyroid index-left thyroid index) was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the NG than in the AG, while the ovarian index was significantly (P < 0.01) higher in the NG than in the AG. Furthermore, between NG and AG, we identified 99, 415, 167, and 1182 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, and ovarian stroma, respectively. Gene ontology (GO) analysis highlighted that DEGs from 4 tissues were predominantly enriched in the "biological processes" category. Additionally, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis revealed that 16, 14, 3, and 26 KEGG pathways were significantly enriched (P < 0.05) in the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, and ovarian stroma. The MAPK signaling pathway emerged as the sole enriched pathway across all 4 tissues. Employing an integrated analysis of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and correlation analysis, we found GREB1 emerged as a pivotal component within the HPO axis to regulate estrogen-related signaling in the HPT axis, meanwhile, the HPT axis influenced ovarian development by regulating thyroid hormone-related signaling mainly through OPN5. Then, 10 potential candidate genes were identified, namely IGF1, JUN, ERBB4, KDR, PGF, FGFR1, GREB1, OPN5, DIO3, and THRB. These findings establish a foundation for elucidating the physiological and genetic mechanisms by which the HPO and HPT axes co-regulate goose AFE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyu He
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Qingyuan Ouyang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Qingliang Chen
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Yang Song
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Jiwei Hu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Shenqiang Hu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Hua He
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Liang Li
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Hehe Liu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China
| | - Jiwen Wang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, PR China.
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Le Clercq LS, Bazzi G, Cecere JG, Gianfranceschi L, Grobler JP, Kotzé A, Rubolini D, Liedvogel M, Dalton DL. Time trees and clock genes: a systematic review and comparative analysis of contemporary avian migration genetics. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2023; 98:1051-1080. [PMID: 36879518 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Timing is a crucial aspect for survival and reproduction in seasonal environments leading to carefully scheduled annual programs of migration in many species. But what are the exact mechanisms through which birds (class: Aves) can keep track of time, anticipate seasonal changes, and adapt their behaviour? One proposed mechanism regulating annual behaviour is the circadian clock, controlled by a highly conserved set of genes, collectively called 'clock genes' which are well established in controlling the daily rhythmicity of physiology and behaviour. Due to diverse migration patterns observed within and among species, in a seemingly endogenously programmed manner, the field of migration genetics has sought and tested several candidate genes within the clock circuitry that may underlie the observed differences in breeding and migration behaviour. Among others, length polymorphisms within genes such as Clock and Adcyap1 have been hypothesised to play a putative role, although association and fitness studies in various species have yielded mixed results. To contextualise the existing body of data, here we conducted a systematic review of all published studies relating polymorphisms in clock genes to seasonality in a phylogenetically and taxonomically informed manner. This was complemented by a standardised comparative re-analysis of candidate gene polymorphisms of 76 bird species, of which 58 are migrants and 18 are residents, along with population genetics analyses for 40 species with available allele data. We tested genetic diversity estimates, used Mantel tests for spatial genetic analyses, and evaluated relationships between candidate gene allele length and population averages for geographic range (breeding- and non-breeding latitude), migration distance, timing of migration, taxonomic relationships, and divergence times. Our combined analysis provided evidence (i) of a putative association between Clock gene variation and autumn migration as well as a putative association between Adcyap1 gene variation and spring migration in migratory species; (ii) that these candidate genes are not diagnostic markers to distinguish migratory from sedentary birds; and (iii) of correlated variability in both genes with divergence time, potentially reflecting ancestrally inherited genotypes rather than contemporary changes driven by selection. These findings highlight a tentative association between these candidate genes and migration attributes as well as genetic constraints on evolutionary adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis-Stéphane Le Clercq
- South African National Biodiversity Institute, P.O. Box 754, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
- Department of Genetics, University of the Free State, PO Box 339, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa
| | - Gaia Bazzi
- Area Avifauna Migratrice, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, via Ca' Fornacetta 9, Ozzano Emilia (BO), I-40064, Italy
| | - Jacopo G Cecere
- Area Avifauna Migratrice, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, via Ca' Fornacetta 9, Ozzano Emilia (BO), I-40064, Italy
| | - Luca Gianfranceschi
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 26, Milan, I-20133, Italy
| | - Johannes Paul Grobler
- Department of Genetics, University of the Free State, PO Box 339, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa
| | - Antoinette Kotzé
- South African National Biodiversity Institute, P.O. Box 754, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
- Department of Genetics, University of the Free State, PO Box 339, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa
| | - Diego Rubolini
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 26, Milan, I-20133, Italy
- Istituto di Ricerca sulle Acque, IRSA-CNR, Via del Mulino 19, Brugherio (MB), I-20861, Italy
| | - Miriam Liedvogel
- Max Planck Research Group Behavioral Genomics, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology, Plön, 24306, Germany
- Institute of Avian Research, An der Vogelwarte 21, Wilhelmshaven, 26386, Germany
| | - Desiré Lee Dalton
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, TS1 3BA, UK
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Sharma A, Sur S, Tripathi V, Kumar V. Genetic Control of Avian Migration: Insights from Studies in Latitudinal Passerine Migrants. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1191. [PMID: 37372370 DOI: 10.3390/genes14061191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Twice-a-year, large-scale movement of billions of birds across latitudinal gradients is one of the most fascinating behavioral phenomena seen among animals. These seasonal voyages in autumn southwards and in spring northwards occur within a discrete time window and, as part of an overall annual itinerary, involve close interaction of the endogenous rhythm at several levels with prevailing photoperiod and temperature. The overall success of seasonal migrations thus depends on their close coupling with the other annual sub-cycles, namely those of the breeding, post-breeding recovery, molt and non-migratory periods. There are striking alterations in the daily behavior and physiology with the onset and end of the migratory period, as shown by the phase inversions in behavioral (a diurnal passerine bird becomes nocturnal and flies at night) and neural activities. Interestingly, there are also differences in the behavior, physiology and regulatory strategies between autumn and spring (vernal) migrations. Concurrent molecular changes occur in regulatory (brain) and metabolic (liver, flight muscle) tissues, as shown in the expression of genes particularly associated with 24 h timekeeping, fat accumulation and the overall metabolism. Here, we present insights into the genetic basis of migratory behavior based on studies using both candidate and global gene expression approaches in passerine migrants, with special reference to Palearctic-Indian migratory blackheaded and redheaded buntings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aakansha Sharma
- IndoUS Center in Chronobiology, Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, India
| | - Sayantan Sur
- IndoUS Center in Chronobiology, Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, India
| | - Vatsala Tripathi
- Department of Zoology, Dyal Singh College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110003, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- IndoUS Center in Chronobiology, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
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Renthlei Z, Yatung S, Lalpekhlui R, Trivedi AK. Seasonality in tropical birds. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 337:952-966. [PMID: 35982509 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The survival of offspring depends on environmental conditions. Many organisms have evolved with seasonality, characterized as initiation-termination-reinitiation of several physiological processes (i.e., body fattening, molt, plumage coloration, reproduction, etc). It is an adaptation for the survival of many species. Predominantly seasonal breeders use photoperiod as the most reliable environmental cue to adapt to seasonal changes but supplementary factors like temperature and food are synergistically involved in seasonal processes. Studies from diverse vertebrate systems have contributed to understanding the mechanism involved in seasonal reproduction at the molecular and endocrine levels. Long-day induced thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone) released from the pars tuberalis of the pituitary gland triggers local thyroid hormone activation within the mediobasal hypothalamus. This locally produced thyroid hormone, T3, regulates seasonal gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion. Most of the bird species studied are seasonal in reproduction and linked behavior and, therefore, need to adjust reproductive decisions to environmental fluctuations. Reproductive strategies of the temperate zone breeders are well-documented, but less is known about tropical birds' reproduction and factors stimulating the annual breeding strategies. Here, we address seasonality in tropical birds with reference to seasonal reproduction and the various environmental factors influencing seasonal breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Subu Yatung
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, India
| | - Ruth Lalpekhlui
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, India
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Chmura HE, Williams CT. A cross-taxonomic perspective on the integration of temperature cues in vertebrate seasonal neuroendocrine pathways. Horm Behav 2022; 144:105215. [PMID: 35687987 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The regulation of seasonality has been an area of interest for decades, yet global climate change has created extra urgency in the quest to understand how sensory circuits and neuroendocrine control systems interact to generate flexibility in biological timekeeping. The capacity of temperature to alter endogenous or photoperiod-regulated neuroendocrine mechanisms driving seasonality, either as a direct cue or through temperature-dependent effects on energy and metabolism, is at the heart of this phenological flexibility. However, until relatively recently, little research had been done on the integration of temperature information in canonical seasonal neuroendocrine pathways, particularly in vertebrates. We review recent advances from research in vertebrates that deepens our understanding of how temperature cues are perceived and integrated into seasonal hypothalamic thyroid hormone (TH) signaling, which is a critical regulator of downstream seasonal phenotypic changes such as those regulated by the BPG (brain-pituitary-gonadal) axis. Temperature perception occurs through cutaneous transient receptor potential (TRP) neurons, though sensitivity of these neurons varies markedly across taxa. Although photoperiod is the dominant cue used to trigger seasonal physiology or entrain circannual clocks, across birds, mammals, fish, reptiles and amphibians, seasonality appears to be temperature sensitive and in at least some cases this appears to be related to phylogenetically conserved TH signaling in the hypothalamus. Nevertheless, the exact mechanisms through which temperature modulates seasonal neuroendocrine pathways remains poorly understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen E Chmura
- Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2140 Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA; Rocky Mountain Research Station, United States Forest Service, 800 E. Beckwith Ave., Missoula, MT 59801, USA.
| | - Cory T Williams
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, 1878 Campus Delivery Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
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Liufu S, Pan J, Sun J, Shen X, Jiang D, Ouyang H, Xu D, Tian Y, Huang Y. OPN5 Regulating Mechanism of Follicle Development Through the TSH-DIO2/DIO3 Pathway in Mountain Ducks Under Different Photoperiods. Front Physiol 2022; 13:813881. [PMID: 35733985 PMCID: PMC9208676 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.813881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract: Photoperiod is an important environmental factor that influence seasonal reproduction behavior in bird. Birds translates photoperiodic information into neuroendocrine signals through deep brain photoreceptors (DBPs). OPN5 has been considered as candidate DBPs involving in regulation of seasonal reproduction in birds. However, little is known about the effect of OPN5 in non-seasonal breeding birds. Thus, we pondered on whether OPN5 regulating follicular development through TSH-DIO2/DIO3 system responds to different photoperiods in non-seasonal laying ducks. As an ideal non-seasonal breeding bird, a total of 120 mountain ducks were randomly divided into three groups and treated respectively to a different photoperiod: group S (8 L:16D), group C (17 L:7D), and group L (24 L:0D). The ducks were caged in a fully enclosed shelter with the same feeding conditions for each group, free water and limited feeding (150 g per duck each day). Samples were collected from each group at d 0, d 5, d 8, d 20, and d 35 (n = 8). The ducks in 24 h photoperiod had the highest laying rate and the lowest feed-to-egg ratio, while the ducks in 8 h photoperiod had the lowest laying rate and the highest feed-to-egg ratio. Long-day photoperiod for 24 h significantly increased the ovarian index and GnRH, LH, E2, and P4 levels in serum; short-day photoperiod for 8 h increased testosterone levels in serum. Compared with 8 h photoperiod, long-day photoperiod significantly or highly significantly increased the mRNA level and protein expression of OPN5 in the hypothalamus of long-day photoperiod on d 35 (p < 0.05). The gene or protein expression patterns of GnRH, TRH, TSHβ, DIO2, THRβ, VIP, and PRL were positively correlated with OPN5, whereas the gene expression patterns of GnIH and DI O 3 were negatively correlated with OPN5. The results revealed that OPN5 mediated the effect of light on follicular development through the TSH-DIO2/DIO3 pathway, the expression of OPN5 increased with light duration and improved the efficiency of the HPG axis to promote follicular development in mountain ducks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sui Liufu
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianqiu Pan
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junfeng Sun
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu Shen
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Danli Jiang
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongjia Ouyang
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Danning Xu
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunbo Tian
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yunbo Tian, ; Yunmao Huang,
| | - Yunmao Huang
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yunbo Tian, ; Yunmao Huang,
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Pan JQ, Liufu S, Sun JF, Chen WJ, Ouyang HJ, Shen X, Jiang DL, Xu DN, Tian YB, He JH, Huang YM. Long-day photoperiods affect expression of OPN5 and the TSH-DIO2/DIO3 pathway in Magang goose ganders. Poult Sci 2022; 101:102024. [PMID: 35986948 PMCID: PMC9405101 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Qiu Pan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510225, China
| | - Sui Liufu
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510225, China
| | - Jun-Feng Sun
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510225, China
| | - Wen-Jun Chen
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510225, China
| | - Hong-Jia Ouyang
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510225, China
| | - Xu Shen
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510225, China
| | - Dan-Li Jiang
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510225, China
| | - Dan-Ning Xu
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510225, China
| | - Yun-Bo Tian
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510225, China
| | - Jian-Hua He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yun-Mao Huang
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Waterfowl Healthy Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510225, China.
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LaDage LD. Seasonal variation in gonadal hormones, spatial cognition, and hippocampal attributes: More questions than answers. Horm Behav 2022; 141:105151. [PMID: 35299119 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
A large body of research has been dedicated to understanding the factors that modulate spatial cognition and attributes of the hippocampus, a highly plastic brain region that underlies spatial processing abilities. Variation in gonadal hormones impacts spatial memory and hippocampal attributes in vertebrates, although the direction of the effect has not been entirely consistent. To add complexity, individuals in the field must optimize fitness by coordinating activities with the appropriate environmental cues, and many of these behaviors are correlated tightly with seasonal variation in gonadal hormone release. As such, it remains unclear if the relationship among systemic gonadal hormones, spatial cognition, and the hippocampus also exhibits seasonal variation. This review presents an overview of the relationship among gonadal hormones, the hippocampus, and spatial cognition, and how the seasonal release of gonadal hormones correlates with seasonal variation in spatial cognition and hippocampal attributes. Additionally, this review presents other neuroendocrine mechanisms that may be involved in modulating the relationship among seasonality, gonadal hormone release, and the hippocampus and spatial cognition, including seasonal rhythms of steroid hormone binding globulins, neurosteroids, sex steroid hormone receptor expression, and hormone interactions. Here, endocrinology, ecology, and behavioral neuroscience are brought together to present an overview of the research demonstrating the mechanistic effects of systemic gonadal hormones on spatial cognition and the hippocampus, while, at a functional level, superimposing seasonal effects to examine ecologically-relevant circannual changes in gonadal hormones and spatial behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara D LaDage
- Penn State Altoona, Division of Mathematics & Natural Sciences, 3000 Ivyside Dr., Altoona, PA 16601, USA.
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10
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Pérez JH, Krause JS, Bishop VR, Reid AMA, Sia M, Wingfield JC, Meddle SL. Seasonal differences in hypothalamic thyroid-stimulating hormone β, gonadotropin-releasing hormone-I and deiodinase expression between migrant and resident subspecies of white-crowned sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys). J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e13032. [PMID: 34463408 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Across taxa, the seasonal transition between non-breeding and breeding states is controlled by localised thyroid hormone signalling in the deep brain via reciprocal switching of deiodinase enzyme expression from type 3 (DIO3) to type 2 (DIO2). This reciprocal switch is considered to be mediated by increasing thyroid-stimulating hormone β (TSHβ) release from the pars tuberalis, which occurs in response to a change in photoperiod. Although well characterised in a handful of model organisms in controlled laboratory settings, this pathway remains largely unexplored in free-living animals under natural environmental conditions. In this comparative gene expression study, we investigated hypothalamic thyroid hormone signalling in two seasonally breeding subspecies of white-crowned sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys), across the entirety of their annual cycles. The migratory Gambel's (Z. l. gambelii) and resident Nuttall's (Z. l. nuttalii) subspecies differ with respect to timing of reproduction, as well as life history stage and migratory strategies. Although DIO3 mRNA expression was elevated and DIO2 mRNA expression was reduced in the wintering period in both subspecies, DIO2 peaked in both subspecies prior to the onset of reproduction. However, there was differential timing between subspecies in peak DIO2 expression. Intriguingly, seasonal modulation of TSHβ mRNA was only observed in migrants, where expression was elevated at the start of breeding, consistent with observations from other highly photoperiodic species. There was no correlation between TSHβ, DIO2 and gonadotropin-releasing hormone-I mRNA or reproductive metrics in residents. Based on these observed differences, we discuss potential implications for our understanding of how changes in medial basal hypothalamic gene expression mediates initiation of seasonal reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan H Pérez
- Department of Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behaviour, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
| | - Jesse S Krause
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behaviour, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Nevada Reno, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Valerie R Bishop
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
| | - Angus M A Reid
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
| | - Michael Sia
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
| | - John C Wingfield
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behaviour, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Simone L Meddle
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
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11
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Abstract
Iodothyronine deiodinases are enzymes capable of activating and inactivating thyroid hormones (THs) and have an important role in regulating TH action in tissues throughout the body. Three types of deiodinases (D1, D2, and D3) were originally defined based on their biochemical characteristics. Cloning of the first complementary DNAs in the 1990s (Dio1 in rat and dio2 and dio3 in frog) allowed to confirm the existence of 3 distinct enzymes. Over the years, increasing genomic information revealed that deiodinases are present in all chordates, vertebrates, and nonvertebrates and that they can even be found in some mollusks and annelids, pointing to an ancient origin. Research in nonmammalian models has substantially broadened our understanding of deiodinases. In relation to their structure, we discovered for instance that biochemical properties such as inhibition by 6-propyl-2-thiouracil, stimulation by dithiothreitol, and temperature optimum are subject to variation. Data from fish, amphibians, and birds were key in shifting our view on the relative importance of activating and inactivating deiodination pathways and in showing the impact of D2 and D3 not only in local but also whole body T3 availability. They also led to the discovery of new local functions such as the acute reciprocal changes in D2 and D3 in hypothalamic tanycytes upon photostimulation, involved in seasonal rhythmicity. With the present possibilities for rapid and precise gene silencing in any species of interest, comparative research will certainly further contribute to a better understanding of the importance of deiodinases for adequate TH action, also in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veerle M Darras
- Laboratory of Comparative Endocrinology, Biology Department, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Correspondence: Veerle Darras, PhD, Laboratory of Comparative Endocrinology, Biology Department, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 61, PB 2464, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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12
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Renthlei Z, Hmar L, Kumar Trivedi A. High temperature attenuates testicular responses in tree sparrow (Passer montanus). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2021; 301:113654. [PMID: 33129830 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The majority of birds use environmental cues to time their reproduction. Photoperiod is the most dominant cue, but other environmental factors may play a critical role in successful reproduction. Some previous studies show the effect of temperature on the timing of nest building and reproduction. Here we tested if the temperature can modulate the reproductive responses of tree sparrows. Three experiments were performed on adult male birds. In experiment 1, birds (n = 5/group) were exposed to either high (30 ± 2 °C) or low temperature (20 ± 2 °C). Change in body mass, bill color, and testes volume was recorded every 30 days. In experiment 2, a similar temperature protocol was followed, but birds were euthanized after 30 days. In experiment 3, birds were first exposed to SD (8L:16D) for 30 days but either with high (30 ± 2 °C) or low temperature (20 ± 2 °C). After 30 days, birds were exposed to LD (14L:10D), but half of the high-temperature birds were moved to low temperature, and half of the low-temperature birds were moved to high temperature. After 30 days, all birds were euthanized. In experiment 2 and 3 immediately after euthanization birds, blood samples were collected, serum was used for hormone assay. mRNA levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone-β (Tshβ), type 2 deiodinase (Dio2), type 3 deiodinase (Dio3), gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and gonadotropin inhibitory hormone (GnIH) were measured in hypothalamic tissue. Results from experiment 1 show that high temperature attenuates the testicular responses and accelerates the timing of regression. Experiment 2 shows that on day 30, testicular responses are similar, but reproductive genes express differentially in two groups. Experiment 3 shows that exposure to high temperatures during the photosensitive stage affects the testicular response at the poststimulatory state. Together, these findings suggest that high temperature modulates reproductive responses of tree sparrow.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lalruatthara Hmar
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, 976004, India
| | - Amit Kumar Trivedi
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, 976004, India.
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13
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Khyati, Malik I, Agrawal N, Kumar V. Melatonin and curcumin reestablish disturbed circadian gene expressions and restore locomotion ability and eclosion behavior in Drosophila model of Huntington's disease. Chronobiol Int 2020; 38:61-78. [PMID: 33334207 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2020.1842752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Deficit in locomotion (motor) ability and disturbance of the circadian behavior and sleep-wake pattern characterize Huntington's disease (HD). Here, we examined the disturbance of circadian timing with the progression of HD pathogenesis, and tested the efficacy of melatonin and curcumin in preventing the motor deficit and disturbed eclosion behavior in the Drosophila model of HD. To examine circadian timing, we assayed mRNA expression of genes of the transcriptional feedback (TF) loop that generates the near 24-h rhythmicity. We performed qPCR of the Period, Timeless, Clock, Cycle, Clockwork, and Cryptochrome genes in transgenic fly heads from elav-Gal4 (pan neuronal) and PDF-Gal4 (PDF-specific neurons) driver lines through the progression of HD disease post-eclosion, from day 1 to its terminal stage on day 13. Cycle was arrhythmic from day 1, but Period and Timeless became arrhythmic on day 13 of the HD pathogenesis in elav, but not PDF, neurons. Twenty-four-hour mRNA rhythms showed alteration in the waveform properties (mesor and amplitude, not acrophase), but not in the persistence, in both elav-Gal4 and PDF-Gal4 HD flies; however, disturbance of the clock gene rhythm was delayed in PDF-Gal4 flies. To assess the preventive effects on HD pathogenesis, flies of both driver lines were provided with melatonin (50, 100, or 150 μg) or curcumin (10 μM) in the diet commencing from the larval stage. Both melatonin (100 μg) and curcumin reestablished the 24-h pattern in mRNA expression of Period and Timeless to normal (control) levels, and significantly improved both locomotion ability and eclosion behavior of HD flies. We suggest that the disturbance of circadian timekeeping progressively accelerated HD pathogenesis, possibly via modulation of the transcriptional state that resulted in the modification of the Huntington gene. These findings suggest melatonin and curcumin might be potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of HD in humans, although this needs specific investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khyati
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi , Delhi, India
| | - Indu Malik
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi , Delhi, India
| | - Namita Agrawal
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi , Delhi, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi , Delhi, India
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14
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Singh O, Agarwal N, Yadav A, Basu S, Malik S, Rani S, Kumar V, Singru PS. Concurrent changes in photoperiod-induced seasonal phenotypes and hypothalamic CART peptide-containing systems in night-migratory redheaded buntings. Brain Struct Funct 2020; 225:2775-2798. [PMID: 33141294 PMCID: PMC7608113 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-020-02154-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
This study tested the hypothesis whether hypothalamic cocaine-and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART)-containing systems were involved in photoperiod-induced responses associated with spring migration (hyperphagia and weight gain) and reproduction (gonadal maturation) in migratory songbirds. We specifically chose CART to examine neural mechanism(s) underlying photoperiod-induced responses, since it is a potent anorectic neuropeptide and involved in the regulation of changes in the body mass and reproduction in mammals. We first studied the distribution of CART-immunoreactivity in the hypothalamus of migratory redheaded buntings (Emberiza bruniceps). CART-immunoreactive neurons were found extensively distributed in the preoptic, lateral hypothalamic (LHN), anterior hypothalamic (AN), suprachiasmatic (SCN), paraventricular (PVN), dorsomedialis hypothalami (DMN), inferior hypothalamic (IH), and infundibular (IN) nuclei. Then, we correlated hypothalamic CART-immunoreactivity in buntings with photostimulated seasonal states, particularly winter non-migratory/non-breeding (NMB) state under short days, and spring premigratory/pre-breeding (PMB) and migratory/breeding (MB) states under long days. There were significantly increased CART-immunoreactive cells, and percent fluorescent area of CART-immunoreactivity was significantly increased in all mapped hypothalamic areas, except the SCN, PVN, AN, and DMN in photostimulated PMB and MB states, as compared to the non-stimulated NMB state. In particular, CART was richly expressed in the medial preoptic nucleus, LHN, IH and IN during MB state in which buntings showed reduced food intake and increased night-time activity. These results suggest that changes in the activity of the CART-containing system in different brain regions were associated with heightened energy needs of the photoperiod-induced seasonal responses during spring migration and reproduction in migratory songbirds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omprakash Singh
- School of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar, Jatni, Khurda, 752050, Odisha, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Neha Agarwal
- Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow, 226007, India.,Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Anupama Yadav
- Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow, 226007, India
| | - Sumela Basu
- School of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar, Jatni, Khurda, 752050, Odisha, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Shalie Malik
- Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow, 226007, India
| | - Sangeeta Rani
- Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow, 226007, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India.
| | - Praful S Singru
- School of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar, Jatni, Khurda, 752050, Odisha, India. .,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai, 400094, India.
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15
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Zhao W, Yuan T, Fu Y, Niu D, Chen W, Chen L, Lu L. Seasonal differences in the transcriptome profile of the Zhedong white goose (Anser cygnoides) pituitary gland. Poult Sci 2020; 100:1154-1166. [PMID: 33518074 PMCID: PMC7858147 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.10.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In animals, the adaptation to breed at the time of greatest survival of the young is known as seasonal reproduction. This is mainly controlled by the photoperiod, which stimulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and starts the breeding season. Herein, we have determined the seasonal changes in gene expression patterns of Zhedong white geese pituitary glands under a natural photoperiodism, conducted at autumn equinox (AE), winter solstice (WS), spring equinox (SE), and summer solstice (SS). Pairwise comparisons of WS vs. AE, SE vs. WS, SS vs. SE, and AE vs. SS resulted in 1,139, 33, 704, and 3,503 differently expressed genes, respectively. When compared with SS, AE showed downregulation of genes, such as vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor, prolactin receptor, and thyroid hormone receptor beta, whereas gonadotropin-releasing hormone II receptor was upregulated, indicating that these genes may be responsible for the transition from cessation to egg laying. In addition, the expression levels of 5 transcription factors (POU1F1, Pitx2, NR5A1, NR4A2, and SREBF2) and 6 circadian clock-associated genes (Clock, Per2, ARNTL2, Eya3, Dio2, and NPAS2) also changed seasonally. Gene Ontology term and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis revealed that “response to oxidative stress” and steroid biosynthesis pathway also participate in regulating the reproduction seasonality of geese. Overall, these results contribute to the identification of genes involved in seasonal reproduction, enabling a better understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying seasonal reproduction of geese.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanqiu Zhao
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Taoyan Yuan
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Yan Fu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Dong Niu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Zhejiang A&F University, Key Laboratory of Applied Technology on Green-Eco-Healthy Animal Husbandry of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 311300, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weihu Chen
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Xiangshan County Agricultural and Rural Bureau, Ningbo 315700, China
| | - Li Chen
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Lizhi Lu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China.
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16
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Trivedi AK, Sur S, Sharma A, Taufique ST, Gupta NJ, Kumar V. Temperature alters the hypothalamic transcription of photoperiod responsive genes in induction of seasonal response in migratory redheaded buntings. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 493:110454. [PMID: 31121264 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the temperature effects on hypothalamic transcription of genes involved in the induction of photoperiodic response in redheaded buntings. Birds were exposed at 22 and 38 °C to 13-h long photoperiods (LP), with controls at 22 °C on 8-h short photoperiods (SP). At 22 °C, compared to SP, we found higher tshb, eya3 and dio2 and low dio3 and gnih mRNA expressions after a week of LP; concomitant with testis recrudescence this confirmed buntings' responsiveness to LP-induced photostimulation. tshb, dio2 and gnrh mRNA levels were further increased by 2.5 weeks of LP at 38 °C. Temperature sensitive trpm8, but not trpv4, bdnf or adcyap1 also showed LP-induced expression at 22 °C. Concomitant changes in dnmt3b and tet2 mRNA expressions further suggested epigenetic modification of temperature influence on photoperiodic responses. These results demonstrate the role of temperature in hypothalamic molecular regulation of the photoperiodic gonadal response in seasonally breeding birds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sayantan Sur
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Aakansha Sharma
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India
| | | | - Neelu Jain Gupta
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India.
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17
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Trivedi AK, Mishra I, Kumar V. Temporal expression of genes coding for aryl-alkamine-N-acetyltransferase and melatonin receptors in circadian clock tissues: Circadian rhythm dependent role of melatonin in seasonal responses. Physiol Behav 2019; 207:167-178. [PMID: 31082443 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2019.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
We investigated at the transcriptional level the role of daily rhythm in melatonin secretion in seasonal responses in the migratory blackheaded bunting (Emberiza melanocephala), which when exposed to short (SP) and long (LP) photoperiods exhibits distinct seasonal life-history states (LHSs). We reproduced the seasonal LHS by subjecting buntings to SP (8 h light: 16 h darkness, 8 L:16D), which maintained the nonmigratory/ nonbreeding phenotype, and to LP (16 L:8D), which induced the premigratory/ prebreeding, migratory/ breeding and nonmigratory/ postbreeding phenotypes. Plasma melatonin measured at 4 h intervals showed loss of the daily rhythm in the LP-induced premigratory/ prebreeding and migratory/ breeding LHSs. Subsequently, mRNA expression of genes coding for the aryl-alkamine-N-acetyltransferase (AANAT; the rate-liming enzyme of melatonin biosynthesis) and for the receptors for melatonin (Mel1A, Mel1B and Mel1C) was examined in the retina, pineal and hypothalamus; the interacting independent circadian clocks comprising the songbird circadian timing system. Except AANAT that was not amplified in the hypothalamus, we found significant alterations in both, the level and persistence of 24 h rhythm in mRNA expression of all genes, albeit with photoperiod and seasonal differences between three circadian clock tissues. Particularly, 24 h mRNA expression pattern of all genes, except retinal Mel1A, lacked a significant daily rhythm in the LP-induced migratory/ breeding LHS. These results underscore the overall importance of the circadian rhythm in the role of melatonin in photoperiodically-controlled seasonal responses in migratory songbirds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Kumar Trivedi
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Ila Mishra
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India.
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18
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Sharma A, Das S, Kumar V. Transcriptome-wide changes in testes reveal molecular differences in photoperiod-induced seasonal reproductive life-history states in migratory songbirds. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:956-963. [PMID: 31025439 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the molecular basis of seasonal testicular states in black-headed buntings (Emberiza melanocephala), in which seasonal migrations limit reproduction to a narrow time-window during the year. We examined testicular gene expressions in buntings during short day-induced photosensitive nonreproductive state (SDSE), and during long day-induced early (LDES) and late (LDLS) gonadal maturation and regressed photorefractory (LDRF) seasonal states. Using Kallisto, we pseudoaligned the RNA-Seq transcripts and calculated the transcript abundance. We found 1,799 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the four photoperiod-induced seasonal states. Further pairwise comparison with SDSE revealed 1,187, 1,224, and 1,238 DEGs in LDES, LDLS, and LDRF, respectively; 852 genes were common to three comparisons. We then identified genetic pathways putatively involved in seasonal testicular cycle. DEGs that enriched calcium ion binding were highly expressed in testicular maturation states. Similarly, DEGs that enriched glycolytic pathway were highly expressed in LDES and LDRF states. More specifically, quantitative polymerase chain reaction showed significant differences between the photoperiod-induced states in testicular expression of genes (HOOK1, RGS2, PRDX4, BCL6, CYFIP2, PDCD4, P2RX4, and GABRA1) involved in gametogenesis and associated pathways. Overall, these results show significant transcriptional differences, and provide insights into the molecular basis of seasonal changes in the reproductive life-history states in a photoperiodic species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Subhajit Das
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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19
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Singh D, Swarup V, Le H, Kumar V. Transcriptional Signatures in Liver Reveal Metabolic Adaptations to Seasons in Migratory Blackheaded Buntings. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1568. [PMID: 30538637 PMCID: PMC6277527 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular underpinnings of metabolic adaptation to seasons are poorly understood in long- distance migrants. We measured changes in physiology and performed de novo sequencing of RNA extracted from liver samples collected at 4-h intervals over a period of 24 h from a long-distance avian migrant, the blackheaded bunting (Emberiza melanocephala), during two states: photostimulated vernal migratory (M) state and photorefractory non-migratory (nM) state. The M state was differentiated from the nM state based on body fattening and weight gain, as well as on Zugunruhe, that is, nocturnal migratory restlessness in caged birds. We found that baseline blood glucose and triglyceride levels were significantly higher in the M state than the nM state; conversely, surface body temperature was higher in the nM state than the M state. In a total of 6 liver samples that were sequenced from each state, 11,246 genes were annotated, including 4448 genes that were cyclic over 24 h. We found 569 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the M and the nM state, and the M state showed 131 upregulated and 438 downregulated genes. These DEGs formed core gene hubs associated with specific biological processes in both the states. In addition, weighted gene coexpression network analysis revealed two discrete modules of coexpressed genes, with a significant difference in the expression pattern of metab olism-associated genes between M and nM states. These results demonstrate, for the first time, transcriptome-wide changes in the liver between two distinct physiological states and give molecular insights into seasonal metabolic adaptations in latitudinal migrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devraj Singh
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Vivek Swarup
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Hiep Le
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Vinod Kumar
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
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20
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Zakari FO, Ayo JO, Rekwot PI, Kawu MU, Minka NS, Olaifa FH, Ibrahim MJ, Avazi DO. Daily rhythmicity of behavioral responses in donkeys of different age groups during the cold-dry (harmattan) and hot-dry seasons in a tropical savannah. J Vet Behav 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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21
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Mishra I, Agarwal N, Rani S, Kumar V. Scotostimulation of reproductive neural pathways and gonadal maturation are not correlated with hypothalamic expression of deiodinases in subtropical spotted munia. J Neuroendocrinol 2018; 30:e12627. [PMID: 29908087 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Circannual rhythm regulates the annual timing of reproduction in spotted munia, with sex differences in its relationship with the external photoperiod environment. Interestingly, munia show an atypical photosensitivity and exhibit gonadal maturation when acutely exposed to an unnatural short photoperiod (eg 3 hours of light per day; ie a long scotoperiod). The proximate mechanisms regulating scotoperiod-induced hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) activation are unclear. Because thyroid hormone signalling plays a central role in photoperiodic induction, we hypothesised the involvement of similar mechanism, comprising alterations in hypothalamic deiodinases, under long scotoperiod-induced HPG activation. To test this, several endpoints of cellular and molecular correlates were assayed in male and female munias after 1 and 4 weeks of exposure to an 3:21 hour light/dark cycle (3L:21D), with controls on a 21:3 hour light/dark cycle (21L:3D). We measured the hypothalamic expression of mRNA and protein of light-sensitive (neuropsin, OPN5) and reproductive (vasoactive intestinal peptide [VIP], neuropeptide Y [NPY], gonadotrophin-releasing hormone [GnRH], gonadotrophin-inhibiting hormone [GnIH]) neuropeptides by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry, respectively. In addition, we also measured mRNA expression of types 2 (DIO2) and 3 (DIO3) deiodinases that regulate triiodothyronine-mediated GnRH release and gonadal maturation in photoperiodic species. The quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry results were consistent. Higher OPN5 levels under 21L:3D than under 3L:21D suggested its role in sensing the length of the light period. Similarly, low VIP and high NPY expression under 3L:21D than under 21L:3D were consistent with their roles as cellular correlates of photic and nonphotic environment, respectively. High GnRH-I/low GnIH levels and gonadal recrudescence under 3L:21D, and an inverse pattern under 21L:3D, confirmed the scotostimulation of HPG axis in spotted munia. However, DIO2 and DIO3 mRNA levels did not differ between 2 scotoperiods, in contrast to their reciprocal expression pattern found during long-day photostimulation. We demonstrate for the first time sex-dependent scotostimulation of reproductive neural pathways and suggest the involvement of molecules other than hypothalamic deiodinases in the regulation of gonad development cycle in 'nonphotoperiodic' seasonally breeding vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ila Mishra
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Neha Agarwal
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow, India
| | - Sangeeta Rani
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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Agarwal N, Mishra I, Rani S, Kumar V. Temporal expression of clock genes in central and peripheral tissues of spotted munia under varying light conditions: Evidence for circadian regulation of daily physiology in a non-photoperiodic circannual songbird species. Chronobiol Int 2018; 35:617-632. [PMID: 29370529 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2017.1422742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
We investigated if the duration and/or frequency of the light period affect 24-h rhythm of circadian clock genes in central and peripheral tissues of a non-photoperiodic songbird, the spotted munia (Lonchura punctulata), in which a circannual rhythm regulates the reproductive cycle. We monitored activity-rest pattern and measured 24-h mRNA oscillation of core clock (Bmal1, Clock, Per2, Cry1 and Cry2) and clock-controlled (E4bp4, Rorα and Rev-erbα) genes in the hypothalamus, retina, liver and gut of spotted munia subjected to an aberrant light-dark (LD) cycle (3.5L:3.5D; T7, T = period length of LD cycle) and continuous light (LL, 24L:0D), with controls on 24-h LD cycle (T24, 12L:12D). Munia exhibited rhythmic activity-rest pattern with period matched to T7 or T24 under an LD cycle and were arrhythmic with a scattered activity pattern and higher activity duration under LL. At the transcriptional level, both clock and clock-controlled genes showed a significant 24-h rhythm in all four tissues (except Clock in the liver) under 12L:12D, suggesting a conserved tissue-level circadian time generation in spotted munia. An exposure to 3.5L:3.5D or LL induced arrhythmicity in transcriptional oscillation of all eight genes in the hypothalamus (except Rev-erbα) and liver (except Bmal1 and Rev-erbα under T7 and Cry1 under LL). In the retina, however, all genes showed arrhythmic 24-h mRNA expression under LL, but not under T7 (except in E4bp4 and Rorα). Interestingly, unlike in the liver, Bmal1, Per2, Cry1, Rorα and Rev-erbα mRNA expressions were rhythmic in the gut under both T7 (except Rorα) and LL conditions. These results showed variable relationship of internal circadian clocks with the external light environment and suggested a weak coupling of circadian clocks between the central (hypothalamus and retina) and peripheral (liver and gut) tissues. We suggest tissue-level circadian clock regulation of daily physiology and behavior in the spotted munia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Agarwal
- a IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology , University of Delhi , Delhi , India.,b IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology , University of Lucknow , Lucknow , India
| | - Ila Mishra
- a IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology , University of Delhi , Delhi , India
| | - Sangeeta Rani
- b IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology , University of Lucknow , Lucknow , India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- a IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology , University of Delhi , Delhi , India
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Mishra I, Singh D, Kumar V. Temporal Expression of c-fos and Genes Coding for Neuropeptides and Enzymes of Amino Acid and Amine Neurotransmitter Biosynthesis in Retina, Pineal and Hypothalamus of a Migratory Songbird: Evidence for Circadian Rhythm-Dependent Seasonal Responses. Neuroscience 2017; 371:309-324. [PMID: 29273324 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2017] [Revised: 12/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated whether, in photoperiodic songbirds, the circadian pacemaker system (CPS) connects to the seasonal photoperiodic responses, by changes at transcriptional level in the level and 24-h rhythm of its constituent neurotransmitters. We used black-headed buntings (Emberiza melanocephala), which exhibit distinct seasonal states in captivity under appropriate photoperiods and hence served as a useful model system. Under short days, buntings remain in the photosensitive state (Pse) (winter phenotype: non-migratory, non-breeding). Under long days, however, buntings undergo through early-photostimulated (spring phenotype: pre-migratory, pre-breeding), late photostimulated (summer phenotype: migratory, breeding) and photorefractory (autumn phenotype: post-breeding) states. During all four seasonal states, we measured in the retina, pineal and hypothalamus, which together form avian CPS, 4-hourly mRNA expression of c-fos (a neuronal-activity marker) and of genes coding for neuropeptides (vasoactive intestinal peptide, vip; somatostatin, sst; neuropeptide Y, npy) and for intermediary enzymes of amino acid (glutamate: glutaminase, gls and glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 2, got2; GABA: glutamic acid decarboxylase, gad65) and amine (dopamine: tyrosine hydroxylase, th) neurotransmitters biosynthetic pathway. There was a significant alteration in level and 24-h pattern of mRNA expression, albeit with seasonal differences in presence, waveform parameters and phase relationship of 24-h rhythm, of different genes. Particularly, mRNA expression of all candidate genes (except hypothalamic vip, pineal gls and retinal th) was arrhythmic in late photostimulated state. These results underscore that circadian rhythm of peptide, amino acid and amine neurotransmitter biosynthesis in CPS plays a critical role in the photoperiodic regulation of seasonal states in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ila Mishra
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India
| | - Devraj Singh
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India.
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Dunn IC, Wilson PW, Shi Y, Burt DW, Loudon ASI, Sharp PJ. Diurnal and photoperiodic changes in thyrotrophin-stimulating hormone β expression and associated regulation of deiodinase enzymes (DIO2, DIO3) in the female juvenile chicken hypothalamus. J Neuroendocrinol 2017; 29:e12554. [PMID: 29117457 PMCID: PMC5767736 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2017] [Revised: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Increased thyrotrophin-stimulating hormone β (TSHβ) expression in the pars tuberalis is assumed to be an early step in the neuroendocrine mechanism transducing photoperiodic information. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between long-photoperiod (LP) and diurnal TSHβ gene expression in the juvenile chicken by comparing LP-photostimulated birds with groups kept on a short photoperiod (SP) for 1 or 12 days. TSHβ expression increased by 3- and 23-fold after 1 and 12 days of LP-photostimulation both during the day and at night. Under both SP and LP conditions, TSHβ expression was between 3- and 14-fold higher at night than in the day, suggesting that TSHβ expression cycles in a diurnal pattern irrespective of photoperiod. The ratio of DIO2/3 was decreased on LPs, consequent to changes in DIO3 expression, although there was no evidence of any diurnal effect on DIO2 or DIO3 expression. Plasma prolactin concentrations revealed both an effect of LPs and time-of-day. Thus, TSHβ expression changes in a dynamic fashion both diurnally and in response to photoperiod.
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Affiliation(s)
- I. C. Dunn
- Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary StudiesRoslinScotlandUK
| | - P. W. Wilson
- Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary StudiesRoslinScotlandUK
| | - Y. Shi
- Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary StudiesRoslinScotlandUK
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineHenan Agricultural UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - D. W. Burt
- UQ Genomics InitiativeUniversity of QueenslandSaint LuciaQldAustralia
| | - A. S. I. Loudon
- Faculty of Life SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - P. J. Sharp
- Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary StudiesRoslinScotlandUK
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Agarwal N, Mishra I, Komal R, Rani S, Kumar V. Circannual testis and moult cycles persist under photoperiods that disrupt circadian activity and clock gene cycles in spotted munia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 220:4162-4168. [PMID: 28916681 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.167809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether circannual rhythms underlying annual testis maturation and moult cycles are independent of duration and frequency of the light period and circadian clock control in non-photoperiodic spotted munia. Birds were subjected to an aberrant light-dark (LD) cycle (3.5 h L:3.5 h D; T7, where T is the period length of the LD cycle) and continuous light (LL, 24 h L:0 h D), with controls on 12 h L:12 h D (T24, 24 h LD cycle). We measured the behavioural activity pattern of the birds and 24 h mRNA oscillations of circadian clock genes (bmal1, clock, per2, cry1, cry2) in the hypothalamus, the putative site of seasonal timing. Diurnal munia were rhythmic in behaviour with the period of the activity-rest cycle matched to T7 and T24, and became behaviourally arrhythmic with activity scattered throughout 24 h under LL. Similarly, exposure to 3.5 h L:3.5 h D and LL caused arrhythmicity in 24 h clock gene expression, suggesting disruption of internal circadian timing at the transcriptional level; a significant rhythm was found under 12 h L:12 h D. During an exposure of 80 weeks, munia showed two to three cycles of testis maturation and wing primaries moult under all photoperiods, although with a longer period under 12L:12D. Thus, the frequency of light period under 3.5 h L:3.5 h D or LL disrupted circadian clock gene cycles, but did not affect the generation of circannual testis and moult cycles. We conclude that the prevailing light environment and hypothalamic circadian gene cycles do not exert direct control on the timing of the annual reproductive cycle in spotted munia, suggesting independent generation of the circadian and circannual rhythms in seasonally breeding species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Agarwal
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India.,Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226 007, India
| | - Ila Mishra
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India
| | - Ruchi Komal
- Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226 007, India
| | - Sangeeta Rani
- Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226 007, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India
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Mishra I, Singh D, Kumar V. Daily levels and rhythm in circulating corticosterone and insulin are altered with photostimulated seasonal states in night-migratory blackheaded buntings. Horm Behav 2017; 94:114-123. [PMID: 28729017 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The circadian rhythms are involved in the photostimulation of seasonal responses in migratory blackheaded buntings. Here, we investigated whether changes in daily levels and rhythm in corticosterone (cort) and insulin secretions were associated with transitions in the photoperiodic seasonal states. Buntings were exposed to short days to maintain the winter (photosensitive) non-migratory state, and to long days for varying durations to induce the premigratory, migratory (shown by migratory restlessness at night, Zugunruhe) and summer non-migratory (photorefractory) states. We monitored activity patterns, and measured plasma cort and insulin levels at six and four times, respectively, over 24h in each seasonal state. Buntings were fattened and weighed heavier, and exhibited intense nighttime activity in the migratory state. The daytime activity patterns also showed seasonal differences, with a bimodal pattern with morning and evening activity bouts only in the summer non-migratory state. Further, the average baseline hormone levels were significantly higher in premigratory and migratory than in the winter non-migratory state. Both cort and insulin levels showed a significant daily rhythm, but with seasonal differences. Whereas, cort rhythm acrophases (estimated time of peak secretion over 24h) were at night in the winter non-migratory, premigratory and migratory states, the insulin rhythm acrophases were found early in the day and night in winter and summer non-migratory states, respectively. These results suggest that changes in daily levels and rhythm in cort and insulin mediate changes in the physiology and behavior with photostimulated transition in seasonal states in migratory blackheaded buntings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ila Mishra
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India
| | - Devraj Singh
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India.
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Stevenson TJ, Kumar V. Neural control of daily and seasonal timing of songbird migration. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2017; 203:399-409. [DOI: 10.1007/s00359-017-1193-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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