1
|
Schibler U. Steven A. Brown and the synchronization of circadian rhythms by body temperature cycles. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 60:3891-3900. [PMID: 38837456 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16431] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The mammalian circadian timing system has a hierarchical architecture, with a central pacemaker located in the brain's suprachiasmatic nucleus orchestrating rhythms in behaviour and physiology. In cooperation with environmental cycles, it synchronizes the phases of peripheral oscillators operating in most cells of the body. Even cells kept in tissue culture harbour self-sustained and cell-autonomous circadian clocks that keep ticking throughout their lifespan. The master pacemaker in the suprachiasmatic nucleus is synchronized primarily by light-dark cycles, whereas peripheral oscillators are phase entrained by a multitude of systemic signalling pathways. These include pathways depending on feeding-fasting cycles, cellular actin polymerization dynamics, endocrine rhythms and, surprisingly, body temperature oscillations. Using tissue culture and murine models, Steve Brown was the first one to demonstrate that shallow rhythms of mammalian body temperature are timing cues (zeitgebers) for peripheral circadian clocks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ueli Schibler
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Sciences III, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Miyake T, Inoue Y, Maekawa Y, Doi M. Circadian Clock and Body Temperature. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1461:177-188. [PMID: 39289281 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-97-4584-5_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
The circadian fluctuation of body temperature is one of the most prominent and stable outputs of the circadian clock and plays an important role in maintaining optimal day-night energy homeostasis. The body temperature of homothermic animals is not strictly constant, but it shows daily oscillation within a range of 1-3 °C, which is sufficient to synchronize the clocks of peripheral tissues throughout the body. The thermal entrainment mechanisms of the clock are partly mediated by the action of the heat shock transcription factor and cold-inducible RNA-binding protein-both have the ability to affect clock gene expression. Body temperature in the poikilotherms is not completely passive to the ambient temperature change; they can travel to the place of preferred temperature in a manner depending on the time of their endogenous clock. Based on this behavior-level thermoregulation, flies exhibit a clear body temperature cycle. Noticeably, flies and mice share the same molecular circuit for the controlled body temperature; in both species, the calcitonin receptors participate in the formation of body temperature rhythms during the active phase and exhibit rather specific expression in subsets of clock neurons in the brain. We summarize knowledge on mutual relationships between body temperature regulation and the circadian clock.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takahito Miyake
- Department of Systems Biology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuichi Inoue
- Department of Systems Biology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yota Maekawa
- Department of Systems Biology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masao Doi
- Department of Systems Biology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Abstract
Artificial light at night (ALAN) is increasing exponentially worldwide, accelerated by the transition to new efficient lighting technologies. However, ALAN and resulting light pollution can cause unintended physiological consequences. In vertebrates, production of melatonin—the “hormone of darkness” and a key player in circadian regulation—can be suppressed by ALAN. In this paper, we provide an overview of research on melatonin and ALAN in vertebrates. We discuss how ALAN disrupts natural photic environments, its effect on melatonin and circadian rhythms, and different photoreceptor systems across vertebrate taxa. We then present the results of a systematic review in which we identified studies on melatonin under typical light-polluted conditions in fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, including humans. Melatonin is suppressed by extremely low light intensities in many vertebrates, ranging from 0.01–0.03 lx for fishes and rodents to 6 lx for sensitive humans. Even lower, wavelength-dependent intensities are implied by some studies and require rigorous testing in ecological contexts. In many studies, melatonin suppression occurs at the minimum light levels tested, and, in better-studied groups, melatonin suppression is reported to occur at lower light levels. We identify major research gaps and conclude that, for most groups, crucial information is lacking. No studies were identified for amphibians and reptiles and long-term impacts of low-level ALAN exposure are unknown. Given the high sensitivity of vertebrate melatonin production to ALAN and the paucity of available information, it is crucial to research impacts of ALAN further in order to inform effective mitigation strategies for human health and the wellbeing and fitness of vertebrates in natural ecosystems.
Collapse
|
4
|
|
5
|
Kelley JL, Davies WIL. The Biological Mechanisms and Behavioral Functions of Opsin-Based Light Detection by the Skin. Front Ecol Evol 2016. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2016.00106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
6
|
Crews D, Hingorani V, Nelson RJ. Role of the Pineal Gland in the Control of Annual Reproductive Behavioral and Physiological Cycles in the Red-Sided Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis). J Biol Rhythms 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/074873048800300307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis) exhibit a dissociated re productive pattern in nature: Male snakes court and mate with females after emergence from hibernation, when the gonads are regressed and not producing gametes or sex steroid hor mones. The proximate environmental cues used for timing this behavior appear to be the onset of warm ambient temperatures after prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. Pinealectomy blocks the normal onset of vernal courtship behavior in red-sided garter snakes. In the present study, snakes captured in the spring or the fall were pinealectomized in different seasons (i.e., spring or fall) prior to the onset of hibernation. Upon emergence, only 1 of 36 sham-operated animals failed to exhibit courtship behavior; 4 of 29 pinealectomized animals exhibited some courtship behavior, but none reached criterion. No animals courted 18 weeks after emer gence, and plasma testosterone levels were similar in pinealectomized and sham-operated animals, indicating that pinealectomy did not simply rephase courtship behavior in these snakes. Although some animals lost mass while others gained mass over the course of the study, this variable does not account for the absence of mating behavior in pinealectomized garter snakes. These data lend additional support to the hypothesis that the pineal gland directly influences reproductive behavior in the red-sided garter snake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Crews
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Department of Zoology, University of Texas, Austin, Texas 78712-1064
| | - Vinita Hingorani
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Department of Zoology, University of Texas, Austin, Texas 78712-1064
| | - Randy J. Nelson
- Departments of Psychology and Population Dynamics, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
|
8
|
Diversification of non-visual photopigment parapinopsin in spectral sensitivity for diverse pineal functions. BMC Biol 2015; 13:73. [PMID: 26370232 PMCID: PMC4570685 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-015-0174-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recent genome projects of various animals have uncovered an unexpectedly large number of opsin genes, which encode protein moieties of photoreceptor molecules, in most animals. In visual systems, the biological meanings of this diversification are clear; multiple types of visual opsins with different spectral sensitivities are responsible for color vision. However, the significance of the diversification of non-visual opsins remains uncertain, in spite of the importance of understanding the molecular mechanism and evolution of varied non-visual photoreceptions. Results Here, we investigated the diversification of the pineal photopigment parapinopsin, which serves as the UV-sensitive photopigment for the pineal wavelength discrimination in the lamprey, linking it with other pineal photoreception. Spectroscopic analyses of the recombinant pigments of the two teleost parapinopsins PP1 and PP2 revealed that PP1 is a UV-sensitive pigment, similar to lamprey parapinopsin, but PP2 is a blue-sensitive pigment, with an absorption maximum at 460–480 nm, showing the diversification of non-visual pigment with respect to spectral sensitivity. We also found that PP1 and PP2 exhibit mutually exclusive expressions in the pineal organs of three teleost species. By using transgenic zebrafish in which these parapinopsin-expressing cells are labeled, we found that PP1-expressing cells basically possess neuronal processes, which is consistent with their involvement in wavelength discrimination. Interestingly, however, PP2-expressing cells rarely possess neuronal processes, raising the possibility that PP2 could be involved in non-neural responses rather than neural responses. Furthermore, we found that PP2-expressing cells contain serotonin and aanat2, the key enzyme involved in melatonin synthesis from serotonin, whereas PP1-expressing cells do not contain either, suggesting that blue-sensitive PP2 is instead involved in light-regulation of melatonin secretion. Conclusions In this paper, we have clearly shown the different molecular properties of duplicated non-visual opsins by demonstrating the diversification of parapinopsin with respect to spectral sensitivity. Moreover, we have shown a plausible link between the diversification and its physiological impact by discovering a strong candidate for the underlying pigment in light-regulated melatonin secretion in zebrafish; the diversification could generate a new contribution of parapinopsin to pineal photoreception. Current findings could also provide an opportunity to understand the “color” preference of non-visual photoreception. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12915-015-0174-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
|
9
|
Fan M, Stuart-Fox D, Cadena V. Cyclic colour change in the bearded dragon Pogona vitticeps under different photoperiods. PLoS One 2014; 9:e111504. [PMID: 25354192 PMCID: PMC4213017 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Accepted: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to change colour rapidly is widespread among ectotherms and has various functions including camouflage, communication and thermoregulation. The process of colour change can occur as an aperiodic event or be rhythmic, induced by cyclic environmental factors or regulated by internal oscillators. Despite the importance of colour change in reptile ecology, few studies have investigated the occurrence of a circadian rhythm in lizard pigmentation. Additionally, although colour change also entails changes in near-infrared reflectance, which may affect thermoregulation, little research has examined this part of the spectrum. We tested whether the bearded dragon lizard, Pogona vitticeps, displays an endogenous circadian rhythm in pigmentation changes that could be entrained by light/dark (LD) cycles and how light affected the relative change in reflectance in both ultraviolet-visible and near-infrared spectra. We subjected 11 lizards to four photoperiodic regimens: LD 12:12; LD 6:18; LD 18:6 and DD; and measured their dorsal skin reflectance at 3-hour intervals for 72 hours after a habituation period. A proportion of lizards displayed a significant rhythm under constant darkness, with maximum reflectance occurring in the subjective night. This endogenous rhythm synchronised to the different artificial LD cycles, with maximum reflectance occurring during dark phases, but did not vary in amplitude. In addition, the total ultraviolet-visible reflectance in relation to the total near-infrared reflectance was significantly higher during dark phases than during light phases. We conclude that P. vitticeps exhibits a circadian pigmentation rhythm of constant amplitude, regulated by internal oscillators and that can be entrained by light/dark cycles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Fan
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn, United Kingdom
- Zoology Department, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Devi Stuart-Fox
- Zoology Department, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Viviana Cadena
- Zoology Department, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Moore AF, Menaker M. Photic resetting of the circadian clock is correlated with photic habitat in Anolis lizards. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2012; 198:375-87. [PMID: 22350678 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-012-0715-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2011] [Revised: 01/18/2012] [Accepted: 01/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Circadian rhythms are regulated by an internal clock, which is itself synchronized to environmental cues such as light and temperature. It is widely assumed that the circadian system is adapted to local cues, which vary enormously across habitats, yet the comparative data necessary for testing this idea are lacking. We examined photic and thermal resetting of the circadian clock in five species of Anolis lizards whose microhabitats differ in the amounts of sun and shade. The primary circadian oscillator in Anolis is the pineal gland, which produces the hormone melatonin. A flow-through culture system was employed to measure rhythmic melatonin output from individually cultured pineal glands. All species showed temperature-compensated circadian rhythms of pineal melatonin. Light caused significant phase delays of the melatonin rhythm, and this effect varied among species. Controlling for phylogenetic differences, the results indicate that the pineal glands of shade-dwelling species are more sensitive to photic resetting than species living in more brightly illuminated habitats. The differences were not due to variation in free-running period, but may be due to variation in oscillator phase and/or robustness. Surprisingly, thermal resetting was not statistically significant. Overall, the results suggest that the Anolis circadian system is adapted to photic habitat.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashli F Moore
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, PO Box 400328, Charlottesville, VA 22904-4328, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Moore AF, Menaker M. The effect of light on melatonin secretion in the cultured pineal glands of Anolis lizards. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2011; 160:301-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2011.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2011] [Revised: 06/28/2011] [Accepted: 06/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
12
|
Zeman M, Herichová I. Circadian melatonin production develops faster in birds than in mammals. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2011; 172:23-30. [PMID: 21199656 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2010.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2010] [Accepted: 12/24/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The development of circadian rhythmicity of melatonin biosynthesis in the pineal gland starts during embryonic period in birds while it is delayed to the postnatal life in mammals. Daily rhythms of melatonin in isolated pinealocytes and in intact pineal glands under in vivo conditions were demonstrated during the last third of embryonic development in chick embryos, with higher levels during the dark (D) than during the light (L) phase. In addition to the LD cycle, rhythmic temperature changes with the amplitude of 4.5°C can entrain rhythmic melatonin biosynthesis in chick embryos, with higher concentrations found during the low-temperature phase (33.0 vs 37.5°C). Molecular clockwork starts to operate during the embryonic life in birds in line with the early development of melatonin rhythmicity. Expression of per2 and cry genes is rhythmic at least at day 16 and 18, respectively, and the circadian system operates in a mature-like manner soon after hatching. Rhythmic oscillations are detected earlier in the central oscillator (the pineal gland) than in the peripheral structures, reflecting the synchronization of individual cells which is necessary for detection of the rhythm. The early development of the circadian system in birds reflects an absence of rhythmic maternal melatonin which in mammals synchronizes physiological processes of offspring. Developmental consequences of modified development of circadian system for its stability later in development are not known and should be studied.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michal Zeman
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ethology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Krohmer R, Lutterschmidt D. Environmental and Neuroendorcrine Control of Reproduction in Snakes. REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY AND PHYLOGENY OF SNAKES 2011. [DOI: 10.1201/b10879-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
|
14
|
Lutterschmidt DI, Mason RT. Endocrine mechanisms mediating temperature-induced reproductive behavior in red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis). J Exp Biol 2009; 212:3108-18. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.033100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY
We investigated the mechanisms by which temperature induces seasonal reproductive behavior in red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis). Specifically, we addressed whether elevated temperatures during winter dormancy influence (1) diel melatonin and corticosterone rhythms; (2) sex steroid hormone and corticosterone profiles; and (3) the expression of reproductive behavior following emergence. Elevated hibernation temperatures (i.e. 10°C versus 5°C) significantly increased overall melatonin and decreased corticosterone concentrations of snakes. The temperature-induced differences in melatonin rhythms between the 5°C and 10°C treatment groups persisted even after both groups were again acclimated to 10°C, indicating that cold temperature exposure has a lasting influence on melatonin rhythms. Elevated hibernation temperatures also significantly altered androgen and corticosterone profiles of snakes,providing a potential mechanism to explain reported annual variation in steroid hormones. Although previous studies indicate that male red-sided garter snakes exhibit a dissociated reproductive strategy, we demonstrate the presence of intersexual variation in sex steroid hormone profiles, as estradiol concentrations of female snakes increased significantly prior to spring mating activity. Importantly, the percentage change in body mass did not differ significantly between snakes in the hibernation treatments,indicating that the observed changes in hormone profiles are indeed temperature induced and not simply an indirect result of significant changes in the energy balance of snakes. Finally, in males maintained at 10°C during winter dormancy the onset of courtship behavior following emergence was delayed. Our results suggest that environmental temperatures induce reproductive behavior, in part, via changes in diel melatonin and/or corticosterone rhythms in this seasonally breeding reptile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert T. Mason
- Department of Zoology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331,USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
The pineal gland, the retinas and perhaps other tissues as well may in some species produce melatonin that appears in significant quantities in the circulation. In at least one species, Japanese quail, the circadian rhythm in the levels of circulating melatonin reflects contributions from both the pineal and the retinas; in other species circulating melatonin may come exclusively from the pineal or perhaps only from the eyes. Comparative behavioural and physiological data from several bird and lizard species indicate that retinas and pineal glands fulfil similar endocrine roles. Current evidence suggests that in iguanid lizards either retinas or pineal glands, but not both in the same species, have important regulatory influences on circadian organization. This suggests that it should be relatively easy to influence the melatonin-forming ability of a tissue by natural selection, an interpretation bolstered by our finding that the ability to synthesize melatonin has been inadvertently eliminated in the pineal glands of laboratory mice, presumably by the selection involved in producing inbred strains. The genetics of melatonin synthesis in mice is briefly discussed.
Collapse
|
16
|
Paul MJ, Zucker I, Schwartz WJ. Tracking the seasons: the internal calendars of vertebrates. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2008; 363:341-61. [PMID: 17686736 PMCID: PMC2606754 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2007.2143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Animals have evolved many season-specific behavioural and physiological adaptations that allow them to both cope with and exploit the cyclic annual environment. Two classes of endogenous annual timekeeping mechanisms enable animals to track, anticipate and prepare for the seasons: a timer that measures an interval of several months and a clock that oscillates with a period of approximately a year. Here, we discuss the basic properties and biological substrates of these timekeeping mechanisms, as well as their reliance on, and encoding of environmental cues to accurately time seasonal events. While the separate classification of interval timers and circannual clocks has elucidated important differences in their underlying properties, comparative physiological investigations, especially those regarding seasonal prolactin secretions, hint at the possibility of common substrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Paul
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kawano-Yamashita E, Terakita A, Koyanagi M, Shichida Y, Oishi T, Tamotsu S. Immunohistochemical characterization of a parapinopsin-containing photoreceptor cell involved in the ultraviolet/green discrimination in the pineal organ of the river lamprey Lethenteron japonicum. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 210:3821-9. [PMID: 17951423 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.007161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In the pineal organ, two types of ganglion cell exhibit antagonistic chromatic responses to UV and green light, and achromatic responses to visible light. In this study, we histologically characterized UV-sensitive photoreceptor cells that contain a unique non-visual UV pigment, lamprey parapinopsin, in order to elucidate the neural network that is associated with antagonistic chromatic responses. These characteristics were compared with those of lamprey rhodopsin-containing cells, most of which are involved in achromatic responses. RT-PCR analysis revealed that lamprey parapinopsin was expressed in the pineal organ but not in the retina, unlike lamprey rhodopsin, which was expressed in both. Lamprey parapinopsin and lamprey rhodopsin were immunohistochemically localized in the dorsal and ventral regions of the pineal organ, respectively. The two pigments were localized in distinct photoreceptor cells throughout the pineal organ, namely the dorsal and ventral regions as well as the peripheral region, which corresponds to the dorso-ventral border region. The ratio of the number of lamprey parapinopsin-containing cells to lamprey rhodopsin-containing cells around the peripheral region was higher than in the central region. Electron-microscopic analysis revealed that lamprey parapinopsin-containing dorsal cells have outer segments and synaptic ribbons similar to those of ventral photoreceptor cells. However, unlike lamprey rhodopsin-containing cells, lamprey parapinopsin-containing cells connected with each other in a wide area of dorsal and peripheral portions and made direct contact with ganglion cells, mainly in the peripheral portion. These results suggest that UV light information captured by lamprey parapinopsin-containing photoreceptor cells is converged and directly transmitted to chromatic-type ganglion cells in the peripheral region to generate antagonistic chromatic responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emi Kawano-Yamashita
- Graduate School of Humanities and Sciences, Nara Women's University, Nara, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Foà A, Brandstätter R, Bertolucci C. The circadian system of ruin lizards: a seasonally changing neuroendocrine loop? Chronobiol Int 2006; 23:317-27. [PMID: 16687305 DOI: 10.1080/07420520500521954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that the amplitude of daily melatonin production in cultured ruin lizard pineal organs explanted in the summer is significantly higher than that from organs explanted in the winter. To test whether seasonal photoperiodic changes are decoded autonomously by the pineal gland, pineals explanted in summer were cultured in vitro and exposed to changes between winter and summer photoperiods. The changes in photoperiod duration did not affect the daily profiles of in vitro melatonin production. The discrepancy between the present in vitro results and those from lizards exposed to winter or summer photoperiods before pineal explantation supports the view that circadian information entering the pineal gland via its innervation is involved in determining seasonal changes of melatonin production in ruin lizards. We further examined whether a central component of the circadian system of ruin lizards, specifically the retinae of the lateral eyes, expresses similar seasonal changes in function as does the pineal gland. We did not find any difference between summer and autumn-winter in the effectiveness of either bilateral retinalectomy or optic nerve lesion-at the level of the optic chiasm-in altering circadian locomotor behavior in constant conditions. Both surgical procedures mostly induced a shortening of the free-running period of the locomotor rhythm of similar magnitude in all seasons. Thus, the retinae do not appear to participate in the seasonal reorganization of the circadian system in ruin lizards.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Foà
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Centro di Neuroscienze, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Saito D, Shi Q, Ando H, Urano A. Attenuation of diurnal rhythms in plasma levels of melatonin and cortisol, and hypothalamic contents of vasotocin and isotocin mRNAs in pre-spawning chum salmon. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2004; 137:62-8. [PMID: 15094336 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2004.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2004] [Revised: 02/09/2004] [Accepted: 02/23/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, diurnal changes in plasma levels of melatonin and cortisol, and hypothalamic contents of neurohypophysial hormone mRNAs were examined in pre-spawning chum salmon, Oncorhynchus keta. From late November to early December, homing fish were captured at two sites along their migratory pathway on the Sanriku coast, Japan. Fish captured in the seawater (SW) environment were transferred to SW aquaria, and fish captured in the freshwater (FW) environment were to FW aquaria. They were maintained under natural photoperiod of approximately 10L:14D and sacrificed at 4-h interval through 24-h period. Plasma levels of melatonin were determined by radioimmunoassay, while cortisol levels were determined by enzyme immunoassay. Hypothalamic contents of vasotocin and isotocin mRNAs were determined by quantitative dot-blot hybridization assay. The melatonin levels showed weak nocturnal elevations in the SW and FW males, and FW females. The levels were maximal at 22:00 and minimal at 10:00 or 14:00, however the amplitudes were smaller than those reported in the previous studies using immature salmonids. The levels of vasotocin and isotocin mRNAs were higher in the males at all time points. The mRNA levels, however, did not show any diurnal variations in either of group. The same applied to plasma cortisol levels. These results indicate that the diurnal endocrine rhythms were attenuated in pre-spawning chum salmon, in contrast to the prominent diurnal rhythms in immature salmonids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Saito
- Division of Biological Sciences, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Science, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0810, Japan.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Tsuchiya Y, Akashi M, Nishida E. Temperature compensation and temperature resetting of circadian rhythms in mammalian cultured fibroblasts. Genes Cells 2003; 8:713-20. [PMID: 12875656 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2443.2003.00669.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circadian rhythms control many physiological processes. One of characteristic properties of circadian rhythms is insensitivity to temperature, called temperature compensation. Although this temperature-insensitive property has repeatedly been observed mainly in circadian output rhythms, temperature effect on autoregulatory feedback loops of clock gene expression, the rhythm-generating mechanisms, has not been fully investigated. RESULTS We show first that the circadian oscillation of clock gene expression in NIH3T3 fibroblasts, which is induced by TPA (12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate) treatment, is strongly temperature-compensated over the temperature range of 33-42 degrees C. We then show that heat treatment at 42 degrees C is able to trigger circadian oscillation of clock gene expression in NIH3T3 cells. This 42 degrees C heat treatment, unlike serum shock or TPA treatment, did not induce immediate expression of mPer1 mRNA, suggesting the existence of several different resetting mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS This is the first demonstration of temperature compensation of the rhythm-generating core feedback loops of clock gene expression in mammalian cultured cells. It is possible that cells in the periphery could sense the change of ambient temperature as a resetting cue and that the whole organism thus could be entrained rapidly at dawn, in cooperation with the resetting mechanism by light.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiki Tsuchiya
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Herzog ED, Huckfeldt RM. Circadian entrainment to temperature, but not light, in the isolated suprachiasmatic nucleus. J Neurophysiol 2003; 90:763-70. [PMID: 12660349 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00129.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) is the master pacemaker that drives circadian rhythms in mammalian physiology and behavior. The abilities to synchronize to daily cycles in the environment and to keep accurate time over a range of physiologic temperatures are two fundamental properties of circadian pacemakers. Recordings from a bioluminescent reporter (Per1-luc) of Period1 gene activity in rats showed that the cultured SCN entrained to daily, 1.5 degrees C cycles of temperature, but did not synchronize to daily light cycles. Temperature entrainment developed by 1 day after birth. Light cycles failed to affect the isolated SCN of rats aged 2 to 339 days. Entrainment to a 3-h shift in the warm-cool cycle was possible in <3 days with 3 degrees C cycles. Importantly, Per1-luc expression in vitro was similar to that seen in vivo where peak expression occurs approximately 1 h prior to the daily increase in temperature. In addition, the firing rate of individual mouse SCN neurons continued to express near 24-h rhythms from 24-37 degrees C. At lower temperatures, the percentage of rhythmic cells was reduced, but periodicity was temperature compensated. The results indicate that normal rhythms in brain temperature may serve to stabilize rhythmicity of the circadian system in vivo and that temperature compensation of this period is determined at the level of individual SCN cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erik D Herzog
- Department of Biology, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Wright ML, Duffy JL, Guertin CJ, Alves CD, Szatkowski MC, Visconti RF. Developmental and diel changes in plasma thyroxine and plasma and ocular melatonin in the larval and juvenile bullfrog, Rana catesbeiana. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2003; 130:120-8. [PMID: 12568788 DOI: 10.1016/s0016-6480(02)00575-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Diel variation in plasma thyroxine (T(4)), and plasma and ocular melatonin was studied in Rana catesbeiana tadpoles and postmetamorphic froglets on 12:12 and 6:18 light/dark (LD) regimens. A progressive rise in plasma T(4) initiates metamorphosis while melatonin can modulate metamorphic progress. Changes in the phase of the rhythms of these two hormones during development might influence the hormonal regulation of metamorphosis. The hormones studied exhibited LD cycle-specific diel fluctuations except in froglet plasma T(4) and all hormones at prometamorphosis on 6L:18D. On 12L:12D, plasma T(4) and ocular melatonin peaked during the scotophase at prometamorphosis and early climax, whereas the plasma melatonin acrophase shifted from the light to the dark at climax. A nocturnal peak of plasma melatonin closely correlated with the onset and offset of dark appeared in the froglet, while the peak of ocular melatonin shifted to the light. Compared to 12L:12D, the peaks of the diel fluctuations on 6L:18D occurred later than on 12L:12D in synchrony with an earlier onset, and increase in length, of the scotophase. The phase of the hormone rhythms changed during metamorphosis in such a way that the peaks of melatonin had a different relationship to the T(4) peaks as development proceeded. On both LD cycles, the 24-h mean of plasma T(4) rose at climax and fell in the froglet whereas plasma melatonin decreased at climax and then rose to a high level in the froglet. After only minor changes during metamorphosis, froglet ocular melatonin levels decreased on 12L:12D and increased on 6L:18D. The findings indicate that the hormonal flux during metamorphosis has circadian aspects, which might explain variations in the response to exogenous hormone treatment at different times of the day and LD cycle-specific timing of development. A fall in plasma melatonin at climax appears to be as much a part of the hormonal changes of metamorphosis as a rise in plasma T(4).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary L Wright
- Biology Department, College of Our Lady of the Elms, Chicopee, MA 01013, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lutterschmidt DI, Lutterschmidt WI, Hutchison VH. Melatonin and thermoregulation in ectothermic vertebrates: a review. CAN J ZOOL 2003. [DOI: 10.1139/z02-189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Precise behavioral thermoregulation is well documented in many ectothermic vertebrates. However, many complexities involving the influence of the pineal gland and melatonin (MEL) on thermoregulatory behavior, and thus body temperature (Tb), remain unresolved. Although MEL is commonly considered to decrease Tb in both endotherms and ectotherms, several ectothermic species do not modulate Tb in response to MEL. Furthermore, it is not yet clear how MEL integrates thermoregulatory behavior with environmental stimuli or how it modulates Tb. Some inferences about MEL action in endotherms are not applicable to ectotherms. Changes in ectothermic Tb are mediated primarily through behavioral modulation (not physiological modulation as in endotherms). Thus, the most likely mechanism underlying MEL's actions on ectothermic Tb is adjustment of the temperature set point in the hypothalamus. We provide a review of the literature addressing the effects of MEL on thermoregulatory behavior in ectothermic vertebrates. We also discuss mechanisms underlying MEL's influence on physiological and behavioral processes in ectotherms and hypotheses regarding interspecific differences in pineal complex and MEL function.
Collapse
|
24
|
Wakamura T, Tokura H. Circadian rhythm of rectal temperature in humans under different ambient temperature cycles. J Therm Biol 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0306-4565(02)00014-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
25
|
Rensing L, Ruoff P. Temperature effect on entrainment, phase shifting, and amplitude of circadian clocks and its molecular bases. Chronobiol Int 2002; 19:807-64. [PMID: 12405549 DOI: 10.1081/cbi-120014569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Effects of temperature and temperature changes on circadian clocks in cyanobacteria, unicellular algae, and plants, as well as fungi, arthropods, and vertebrates are reviewed. Periodic temperature with periods around 24 h even in the low range of 1-2 degrees C (strong Zeitgeber effect) can entrain all ectothermic (poikilothermic) organisms. This is also reflected by the phase shifts-recorded by phase response curves (PRCs)-that are elicited by step- or pulsewise changes in the temperature. The amount of phase shift (weak or strong type of PRC) depends on the amplitude of the temperature change and on its duration when applied as a pulse. Form and position of the PRC to temperature pulses are similar to those of the PRC to light pulses. A combined high/low temperature and light/dark cycle leads to a stabile phase and maximal amplitude of the circadian rhythm-when applied in phase (i.e., warm/light and cold/dark). When the two Zeitgeber cycles are phase-shifted against each other the phase of the circadian rhythm is determined by either Zeitgeber or by both, depending on the relative strength (amplitude) of both Zeitgeber signals and the sensitivity of the species/individual toward them. A phase jump of the circadian rhythm has been observed in several organisms at a certain phase relationship of the two Zeitgeber cycles. Ectothermic organisms show inter- and intraspecies plus seasonal variations in the temperature limits for the expression of the clock, either of the basic molecular mechanism, and/or the dependent variables. A step-down from higher temperatures or a step-up from lower temperatures to moderate temperatures often results in initiation of oscillations from phase positions that are about 180 degrees different. This may be explained by holding the clock at different phase positions (maximum or minimum of a clock component) or by significantly different levels of clock components at the higher or lower temperatures. Different permissive temperatures result in different circadian amplitudes, that usually show a species-specific optimum. In endothermic (homeothermic) organisms periodic temperature changes of about 24 h often cause entrainment, although with considerable individual differences, only if they are of rather high amplitudes (weak Zeitgeber effects). The same applies to the phase-shifting effects of temperature pulses. Isolated bird pineals and rat suprachiasmatic nuclei tissues on the other hand, respond to medium high temperature pulses and reveal PRCs similar to that of light signals. Therefore, one may speculate that the self-selected circadian rhythm of body temperature in reptiles or the endogenously controlled body temperature in homeotherms (some of which show temperature differences of more than 2 degrees C) may, in itself, serve as an internal entraining system. The so-called heterothermic mammals (undergoing low body temperature states in a daily or seasonal pattern) may be more sensitive to temperature changes. Effects of temperature elevation on the molecular clock mechanisms have been shown in Neurospora (induction of the frequency (FRQ) protein) and in Drosophila (degradation of the period (PER) and timeless (TIM) protein) and can explain observed phase shifts of rhythms in conidiation and locomotor activity, respectively. Temperature changes probably act directly on all processes of the clock mechanism some being more sensitive than the others. Temperature changes affect membrane properties, ion homeostasis, calcium influx, and other signal cascades (cAMP, cGMP, and the protein kinases A and C) (indirect effects) and may thus influence, in particular, protein phosphorylation processes of the clock mechanism. The temperature effects resemble to some degree those induced by light or by light-transducing neurons and their transmitters. In ectothermic vertebrates temperature changes significantly affect the melatonin rhythm, which in turn exerts entraining (phase shifting) functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ludger Rensing
- Institute of Cell Biology, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Bremen, Germany.
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Doi M, Nakajima Y, Okano T, Fukada Y. Light-dependent changes in the chick pineal temperature and the expression of cHsp90 alpha gene: a potential contribution of in vivo temperature change to the photic-entrainment of the chick pineal circadian clock. Zoolog Sci 2002; 19:633-41. [PMID: 12130790 DOI: 10.2108/zsj.19.633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The circadian clock is entrained to the diurnal alteration of environmental conditions such as light and temperature, but the molecular mechanism underlying the entrainment is not fully understood. In the present study, we employed a differential display-based screening for a set of genes that are induced by light in the chick pineal gland, a structure of the central clock entrainable to both light and temperature changes. We found that the level of the mRNA encoding chicken heat shock protein 90 alpha (cHSP90 alpha) was rapidly elevated in the pineal gland within a 5-min exposure of chicks to light. Furthermore, the pineal cHsp90 alpha mRNA was expressed rhythmically under both 12-hr light/12-hr dark (LD) cycles and constant dark (DD) conditions. The total amount of the pineal cHSP90 alpha protein was, however, kept at nearly constant levels under LD cycles, and immunohistochemical analyses of the pineal cHSP90 alpha showed invariable localization at the cytoplasm throughout the day. In vivo measurement of the chick pineal temperature demonstrated its light-dependent and time-of-day-dependent change, and the profile was very similar to that of the pineal cHSP90 alpha mRNA level. These observations suggest that the in vivo temperature change regulates the expression of temperature-responsive genes including cHSP 90 alpha in the pineal gland. The temperature change may induce a phase-shift of the pineal clock, thereby facilitating its efficient entrainment to environmental LD cycles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masao Doi
- Department of Biophysics and Biochemistry, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lutterschmidt DI, Lutterschmidt WI, Ford NB, Hutchison VH. Behavioral thermoregulation and the role of melatonin in a nocturnal snake. Horm Behav 2002; 41:41-50. [PMID: 11863382 DOI: 10.1006/hbeh.2001.1721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Daily and seasonal variations in hormone levels influence the complex interactions between behavior and physiology. Ectothermic animals possess the unique ability behaviorally to adjust body temperature (T(b)) to control physiological rate processes. Thus, a hormone may indirectly influence a physiological rate by directly influencing the behaviors that adjust or control that rate process. Although many hormonal influences on behavioral regulation of T(b) remain uninvestigated, melatonin (MEL) generally is considered a hormone that decreases mean preferred T(b). Many ectotherms demonstrate the selection of lower T(b)'s in response to increased MEL concentrations. Here, we examined the influence of MEL on the behavioral regulation of T(b) in the nocturnal African house snake Lamprophis fuliginosus. A series of experiments with two injection regimes of MEL had no significant effect on the mean preferred T(b) of L. fuliginosus. In addition, mean preferred T(b)'s during the photophase did not differ significantly from those during scotophase. Our findings suggest that L. fuliginosus does not respond to elevated concentrations of either endogenous or exogenous MEL. To verify that the African house snake is nocturnal, we investigated activity patterns of L. fuliginosus throughout the photoperiod. The activity period of L. fuliginosus occurs in the scotophase of the photoperiod, a pattern consistent with that of nocturnal species. This suggests that nocturnal organisms such as L. fuliginosus may not respond to MEL in the same manner as many diurnal species. Our results support the hypothesis that some animals, particularly nocturnal species, may have developed alternative responses to increased plasma concentrations of MEL.
Collapse
|
28
|
Tosini G, Bertolucci C, Foà A. The circadian system of reptiles: a multioscillatory and multiphotoreceptive system. Physiol Behav 2001; 72:461-71. [PMID: 11282129 DOI: 10.1016/s0031-9384(00)00423-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Many parameters exhibited by organisms show daily fluctuations that may persist when the organisms are held in constant environmental conditions. Rhythms that persist in constant conditions with a period close to 24 h are called circadian. Although nowadays most research in this field is focused on the molecular and genetic aspects--and therefore mostly on two animal models (Drosophila and mouse)--the study of alternative animal models still represent a useful approach to understanding how the vertebrate circadian system is organized, and how this fascinating time-keeping system has changed throughout the evolution of vertebrates. The present paper summarizes the current knowledge of the circadian organization of Reptiles. The circadian organization of reptiles is multioscillatory in nature. The retinas, the pineal, and the parietal eye (and, possibly, the suprachiasmatic nuclei of the hypothalamus, SCN) contain circadian clocks. Of particular interest is the observation that the role these structures play in the circadian organization varies considerably among species and within the same species in different seasons. Another remarkable feature of this class is the redundancy of circadian photoreceptors: retinas of the lateral eyes, pineal, parietal eye, and the brain all contain photoreceptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Tosini
- Neuroscience Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, SW, Atlanta, GA 30310-1495, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Samejima M, Shavali S, Tamotsu S, Uchida K, Morita Y, Fukuda A. Light- and temperature-dependence of the melatonin secretion rhythm in the pineal organ of the lamprey, Lampetra japonica. THE JAPANESE JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY 2000; 50:437-42. [PMID: 11082542 DOI: 10.2170/jjphysiol.50.437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
To identify the characteristics of the oscillator located in the pineal organ, we examined the effects of temperature and light on melatonin secretion rhythm using pineal organs in cultures. At 20 degrees C, the melatonin rhythm was obvious: low secretion during the daytime and high during the nighttime. When the temperature was lowered from 20 to 10 degrees C, the melatonin rhythm disappeared. When the temperature was returned from 10 to 20 degrees C, the rhythm quickly reappeared. The plasma melatonin level was measured in living lampreys kept at 7 degrees C to establish the melatonin profile at low temperature in vivo: secretion was not significantly different between daytime and nighttime. Under continuous light conditions, the melatonin elevation normally seen during the subjective night became obscure after 72 h. When the LD cycle was shifted by 6 h (phase-advanced or phase-delayed), the melatonin rhythm shifted to remain in the same phase relation to the LD cycle. This re-synchronization took several LD cycles. The results indicate that, in cultures, the melatonin secretion rhythm in the pineal organ of the lamprey is both light- and temperature-sensitive, and that in vivo, the melatonin rhythm is not the critical factor maintaining the locomotor activity rhythm of the lamprey. The role of the pineal organ and melatonin in the circadian organization of the lamprey is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Samejima
- Department of Physiology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, 431-3192 Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Firth BT, Belan I, Kennaway DJ, Moyer RW. Thermocyclic entrainment of lizard blood plasma melatonin rhythms in constant and cyclic photic environments. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY 1999; 277:R1620-6. [PMID: 10600907 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.1999.277.6.r1620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We assessed how chronic exposure to 6-h cryophase temperatures of 15 degrees C in an otherwise 33 degrees C environment entrains the rhythm of blood plasma melatonin rhythms in lizards (Tiliqua rugosa) subjected to constant dark (DD), constant light (LL), and to 12:12-h light-dark cycles (12L:12D). The peak of the melatonin rhythm was entrained by the cryophase temperature of the thermocycle in DD and LL, irrespective of the time at which the cryophase temperature was applied. Comparable thermocycles of 6 h at 15 degrees C imposed on a 12L:12D photocycle, however, affected the amplitude and phase of the melatonin rhythm, depending on the phase relationship between light and temperature. Cold pulses in the early light period and at midday resulted, respectively, either in low amplitude or nonexistent melatonin rhythms, whereas those centered in or around the dark phase elicited rhythms of high amplitude. Supplementary experiments in 12L:12D using two intermittent 6-h 15 degrees C cryophases, one delivered in the midscotophase and another in the midphotophase, elicited melatonin rhythms comparable to those in lizards subjected to constant 33 degrees C and 12L:12D. In contrast, lizards subjected to 12L:12D and a 33 degrees C:15 degrees C thermocycle, whose thermophase was aligned with the photophase, produced a threefold increase in the amplitude of the melatonin rhythm. Taken together, these results support the notion that there is an interaction between the external light and temperature cycle and a circadian clock in determining melatonin rhythms in Tiliqua rugosa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B T Firth
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ohshima K, Hirai S, Hiramatsu K. Seasonal variations in serotonin immunoreactivity and ultrastructure in the pineal organ of the Japanese grass lizard, with special reference to environmental temperature. Tissue Cell 1999; 31:441-50. [PMID: 10522390 DOI: 10.1054/tice.1999.0054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The seasonal variations in serotonin immunoreactivity and ultrastructure of the secretory rudimentary photoreceptor cells (SRPC) were studied in the pineal organ of the Japanese grass lizard, Takydromus tachydromoides in relation to the environmental temperature. Our results clearly demonstrated that serotonin immunoreactivity in the lizard pineal organ displayed seasonal variations under an artificial photoperiod of LD 12:12 and natural temperature in the laboratory. Immunoreactivity became intense with increase in temperature from spring to summer, showing the strongest reaction in the summer, and subsequently became weak with the drop in temperature to winter. Also, the SRPC of the lizard showed distinct seasonal variations in number and size of the dense-cored vesicles correlated to the serotonin immunoreactivity. In contrast, the changes in size of the lysosomes and nucleoli of the SRPC were inversely proportional to that of the dense-cored vesicles. Furthermore, the lysosomes ingested some dense-cored vesicles after the autumn, and they coalesced to form huge autophagosomes or residual bodies during the winter. The present study provided serotonin-immunohistochemical and ultrastructural evidence for seasonal variations in the secretory activity of the lizard pineal organ in accordance with changes in the environmental temperature. However, there may be few functional relationships between the pineal gland and the reproductive organs in the male Japanese lizard in relation to environmental temperature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Ohshima
- Laboratory of Functional Anatomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Shinshu University, Nagano-ken, Japan.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
Daily rhythms are a fundamental feature of all living organisms; most are synchronized by the 24 hr light/dark (LD) cycle. In most species, these rhythms are generated by a circadian system, and free run under constant conditions with a period close to 24 hr. To function properly the system needs a pacemaker or clock, an entrainment pathway to the clock, and one or more output signals. In vertebrates, the pineal hormone melatonin is one of these signals which functions as an internal time-keeping molecule. Its production is high at night and low during day. Evidence indicates that each melatonin producing cell of the pineal constitutes a circadian system per se in non-mammalian vertebrates. In addition to the melatonin generating system, they contain the clock as well as the photoreceptive unit. This is despite the fact that these cells have been profoundly modified from fish to birds. Modifications include a regression of the photoreceptive capacities, and of the ability to transmit a nervous message to the brain. The ultimate stage of this evolutionary process leads to the definitive loss of both the direct photosensitivity and the clock, as observed in the pineal of mammals. This review focuses on the functional properties of the cellular circadian clocks of non-mammalian vertebrates. How functions the clock? How is the photoreceptive unit linked to it and how is the clock linked to its output signal? These questions are addressed in light of past and recent data obtained in vertebrates, as well as invertebrates and unicellulars.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Falcón
- CNRS UMR 6558, Département des Neurosciences, Université de Poitiers, France.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Pálková M, Sigmund L, Erkert HG. Effect of ambient temperature on the circadian activity rhythm in common marmosets, Callithrix j. jacchus (primates). Chronobiol Int 1999; 16:149-61. [PMID: 10219487 DOI: 10.3109/07420529909019082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Whereas the (zeitgeber) effect of ambient temperature Ta and temperature cycles TaC's on circadian rhythmicity has been well documented for heterothermic mammals, inconsistent results have been obtained for strictly homeothermic species. Hence, it might be inferred that the susceptibility of the mammalian circadian timing system (CTS) to Ta and TaC's depends on the range of the animals' core and/or brain temperature rhythm. This hypothesis was tested in the common marmoset (Callithrix j. jacchus, n = 12), a small diurnal primate with an amplitude in body temperature rhythm that is larger than for other homeothermic primates studied so far. Within the range 20-30 degrees C, no systematic effects of constant Ta on most parameters of the marmosets' light-dark (LD)-entrained and free-running circadian activity rhythm (CAR) were found. Significant differences could be established in the average amount of activity per circadian cycle. It was highest at Ta 25 degrees C (LD) and 20 degrees C (light-light, LL) and most probably reflected a temperature-induced masking effect. A 24 h trapezoidal TaC of 20:30 degrees C entrained the free-running CAR in two of six marmosets and produced relative coordination in all others. Accordingly, in all animals tested, it had an effect on the CTS. In marmosets free running in LL at a Ta of 20 degrees C or 30 degrees C, 3 h warm and cold pulses of 30 degrees C and 20 degrees C, respectively, produced neither systematic phase responses nor period responses of the CAR. So, there is no evidence of a phase-response mechanism underlying circadian entrainment. The results show that large-amplitude TaC's function as a weak zeitgeber for the marmosets' CTS. Since this zeitgeber effect is significantly larger than that found in owl monkeys, the results are consistent with the starting hypothesis that the zeitgeber effect of a given TaC on the mammalian CTS may be related to the amplitude of the species' core and/or brain temperature cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Pálková
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, Charles University, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Pavlidis M, Greenwood L, Paalavuo M, Mölsä H, Laitinen JT. The effect of photoperiod on diel rhythms in serum melatonin, cortisol, glucose, and electrolytes in the common dentex, Dentex dentex. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1999; 113:240-50. [PMID: 10082626 DOI: 10.1006/gcen.1998.7190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Diel rhythms in serum concentrations of melatonin, cortisol, glucose, sodium, chloride, and potassium were studied in the common dentex, Dentex dentex, under different photoperiods (DD, 8L:16D, 12L:12D, 16L:8D). Photoperiod affected both the diel rhythms and the absolute values of the estimated blood components. Regardless of the photoperiod, melatonin titers were elevated during the scotophase (384.3 +/- 13.9 pg/ml) compared with a mean baseline level of 54.4 +/- 2.7 pg/ml during the photophase. Serum melatonin concentrations reflected the prevailing photoperiod and constantly elevated melatonin levels with no diel rhythmicity were evident in fish held in the DD protocol. A circadian-like pattern in serum cortisol was observed in fish that were kept at the DD and 8L:16D protocols with cortisol peak at 18:00 h in the night. Fish exposed to the 16L:8D regime showed highest cortisol levels at 10:00 h, while no rhythmicity was evident under the 12L:12D protocol. A phase shift of 4 h between the peaks of cortisol and glucose was evident in fish exposed to the DD, 8L:16D, and 12L:12D regimes. Diel patterns of changes in serum Na+ and Cl- were observed only in the fish held in the DD protocol. Serum K+ values were lowest during the first part of the scotophase under all regimes, except the 16L:8D where no diel rhythmicity was detected. During the photophase, cortisol was positively correlated with glucose, Na+, and Cl- and negatively with K+. During the scotophase, melatonin was positively correlated with glucose and electrolytes. Results indicated that cortisol may be responsible for the observed rhythmicity of glucose and that melatonin may play a role in glucose and ion regulation in common dentex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Pavlidis
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute of Marine Biology of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, GR-710 03, Greece.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Lutterschmidt WI, Lutterschmidt DI, Tracy CR, Hutchison VH. Time course analyses of the thermoregulatory responses to melatonin and chlorpromazine in bull snakes (Pituophis melanoleucus). J Therm Biol 1998. [DOI: 10.1016/s0306-4565(98)00017-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
36
|
Rajaratnam SM, Redman JR. Entrainment of activity rhythms to temperature cycles in diurnal palm squirrels. Physiol Behav 1998; 63:271-7. [PMID: 9423969 DOI: 10.1016/s0031-9384(97)00440-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Ambient temperature cycles entrain circadian rhythms of homeotherms. The phase that entrainment occurs at varies, particularly in diurnal species. We investigated whether ambient temperature cycles of 12 h warm (34 to 40 degrees C) and 12 h cool (24 to 28 degrees C) entrained locomotor activity rhythms of diurnal Indian palm squirrels (Funambulus pennanti) that were free-running in constant dim light (3.2 to 7.6 lux). Seven female squirrels were exposed to the temperature cycle for 21 days, after which a 5-h phase delay of the cycle was imposed. The cycle then continued for a further 50 days. Three of the seven squirrels showed entrainment to the temperature cycle. Of the three which entrained, one was warm-active and two were cool-active. Of the remaining squirrels, two showed entrainment or relative coordination of one component of the rhythm, and two did not show any entrainment. Positive and negative masking of activity by the warm and cool fractions were observed regardless of whether or not squirrels entrained. These results suggest that ambient temperature is an effective zeitgeber for F. pennanti. As has been reported for other diurnal species, interindividual differences exist in the phase of entrainment to temperature cycles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S M Rajaratnam
- Department of Psychology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
The effect of pulses of warm ambient temperature on the phase of activity onset in Long-Evans hooded rats, Rattus norvegicus, free-running in constant light was examined. In two experiments, rats were exposed to pulses reaching a maximum of 34 degrees C or 32 degrees C. Phase response curves were obtained with advances occurring mainly in the subjective day, and delays mainly, but not entirely, in the subjective night. Significant negative correlations between rhythm period and phase-shifts were found. There were no consistent relationships between changes in activity levels due to the temperature pulses and phase-shifts. Cycles of higher and lower ambient temperature may entrain circadian activity rhythms in mammals by daily advance or delay phase-shifts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Francis
- Department of Psychology and IDS, Faculty of Applied Science, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Moyer RW, Firth BT, Kennaway DJ. Effect of variable temperatures, darkness and light on the secretion of melatonin by pineal explants in the gecko, Christinus marmoratus. Brain Res 1997; 747:230-5. [PMID: 9045997 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-8993(96)01266-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the combined effect of thermocycles with either variable or constant photic conditions on melatonin production by pineal organs in vitro in the gecko, Christinus marmoratus. A 30 degrees C:15 degrees C thermocycle elicited a rhythm of melatonin production under conditions of 12L:12D, constant light or constant darkness when the cryophase coincided with the dark phase of the photocycle or with the subjective night. A 6 h advance of the thermocycle with respect to the photocycle produced an advance in the onset and offset of melatonin production in subsequent nights. When the thermocycle was 180 degrees out of phase with the photoperiod, the rhythm of melatonin production was disrupted, suggesting a differential pattern of sensitivity to photothermal stimuli. It was concluded that both light and temperature are important modulators of pineal function although their combined effects on pineal melatonin production is complex and unclear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R W Moyer
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, University of Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Tosini G, Menaker M. The pineal complex and melatonin affect the expression of the daily rhythm of behavioral thermoregulation in the green iguana. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 1996; 179:135-42. [PMID: 8965257 DOI: 10.1007/bf00193441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Daily variation in the body temperature of the green iguana (Iguana iguana) was studied by telemetry in laboratory photo-thermal enclosures under a 12Light:12Dark (L:D) photoperiod. The lizards showed robust daily rhythms of thermoregulation maintaining their body temperatures (Tb) at higher levels during the day than during the night. Some animals maintained rhythmicity when kept in constant darkness. On light:dark cycles parietalectomy produced only a transient increase of median Tb in the first or second night following the operation. Pinealectomized lizards on the other hand maintained their body temperatures as significantly lower levels during the day and at significantly higher levels during the night than did sham-operated or intact lizards. This effect was apparently permanent, since one month after pinealectomy lizards still displayed the altered pattern. Plasma melatonin levels in intact animals were high during the night and low during the day and were unaffected by parietalectomy. Pinealectomized lizards showed low levels of plasma melatonin during both the day and the night. A daily intraperitoneal injection of melatonin in pinealectomized animals given a few minutes after the light to dark transition decreased the body temperatures selected by the lizards during the night and increased the body temperatures selected during the following day. Control injections of saline solution had no effect. The significance of these results is discussed in relation to the role of the pineal complex and melatonin in the mediation of thermoregulatory behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Tosini
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville 22903, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Tosini G, Avery R. Spectral composition of light influences thermoregulatory behaviour in a lacertid lizard (Podarcis muralis). J Therm Biol 1996. [DOI: 10.1016/0306-4565(96)00002-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
41
|
Mendonça MT, Tousignant AJ, Crews D. Pinealectomy, melatonin, and courtship behavior in male red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis). THE JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY 1996; 274:63-74. [PMID: 8583209 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1097-010x(19960101)274:1<63::aid-jez7>3.0.co;2-d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Activation of courtship behavior in male red-sided garter snakes is independent of androgens. Only exposure to extended periods of low temperature with subsequent warming stimulates courtship in males. The pineal gland is thought to transduce temperature as well as photoperiodic information in reptiles. Therefore, we explored the relationship of the pineal and melatonin to sexual behavior in this species. Pinealectomy of male garter snakes disrupted sexual behavior upon emergence from a 17-week period of low temperature in approximately 60% of treated individuals in each of the 3 years of study. However, 40% of the males were unaffected by the pinealectomy, engaging in vigorous courtship. Administration of exogenous, chronic melatonin did not significantly modulate the effect of pinealectomy. Upon pinealectomy in the autumn (before hibernation), plasma levels of melatonin fell. However, upon emergence from hibernation, melatonin levels in pinealectomized (PINX) and sham-treated (SHAM) animals were equivalent, indicating extrapineal source(s) of melatonin. However, PINX males did not exhibit a diel cycle in melatonin levels upon emergence. Instead, melatonin remained elevated through the subsequent 24-hr period. SHAMs did exhibit a diel cycle. Ten days after emergence, PINX animals either had a disrupted/abnormal melatonin cycle and were non-courters or had a cycle similar to SHAM males and courted. Therefore, a normal diel cycle of melatonin appeared necessary for the proper expression of courtship behavior. These results suggest that the pineal in snakes 1) is part of a complex, multi-oscillator system as it is in birds and lizards and 2) may play a role in maintaining polymorphism in timing of reproductive behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M T Mendonça
- Department of Zoology, University of Texas at Austin 78712, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Hyde LL, Underwood H. Daily melatonin infusions entrain the locomotor activity of pinealectomized lizards. Physiol Behav 1995; 58:943-51. [PMID: 8577892 DOI: 10.1016/0031-9384(95)00157-e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Previously, it was shown that the locomotor activity rhythms of pineal-intact lizards (Sceloporus occidentalis) could be entrained to a periodicity of 24 h by 10-micrograms melatonin injections administered every other day at the same time. The present study examined the response of the circadian activity rhythm of pinealectomized S. occidentalis to daily 12-h infusions of smaller quantities of melatonin (0.1 or 5 micrograms melatonin/day). The results show that entrainment is achieved by infusion of 0.1 microgram of melatonin/day in pinealectomized lizards, as well as by 5 micrograms of melatonin/day in pinealectomized and pineal-intact lizards. Serum melatonin levels in pinealectomized lizards receiving 0.1 microgram melatonin/day (measured in the middle of the infusion period) were comparable to mid-dark levels in intact lizards. These results provide further support for the hypothesis that the pineal, via its daily rhythm of melatonin secretion, plays an important role in the circadian organization of lizards.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L L Hyde
- Department of Zoology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh 27695-7617, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Moyer RW, Firth BT, Kennaway DJ. Effect of constant temperatures, darkness and light on the secretion of melatonin by pineal explants and retinas in the gecko Christinus marmoratus. Brain Res 1995; 675:345-8. [PMID: 7796151 DOI: 10.1016/0006-8993(95)00073-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The effects of temperature and lighting conditions on the secretion of melatonin by the pineal organ of the nocturnal gecko Christinus marmoratus was studied using in vitro perifusion. In a 12L:12D lighting regime, a high-amplitude melatonin rhythm was detectable at a constant temperature of 20 and 30 degrees C but not at 10 or 37 degrees C. There were sustained high levels of melatonin in constant darkness and sustained low levels in constant light. No retinal melatonin was detected using static and perifusion culture techniques. These results show that the pineal organ of C. marmoratus maintains light sensitivity in vitro but does not contain an oscillator coupled to the melatonin synthetic pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R W Moyer
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, University of Adelaide, Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Nevid NJ, Meier AH. Nonphotic stimuli alter a day-night rhythm of allograft rejection in gulf killifish. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 1994; 18:495-509. [PMID: 7768316 DOI: 10.1016/s0145-305x(06)80004-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The influence of environmental stimuli on a daily rhythm of immune activity during scale allograft rejection was investigated in gulf killifish, Fundulus grandis. Although melanophore destruction in the grafts is largely restricted to the scotophases in killifish held on 12 h daily photoperiods (LD 12:12), timed daily netting (tank-transfer "stress"), thermoperiods (from 20 degrees to 30 degrees C for 4 or 12 h), and feeding altered the expression of this rhythm. Melanophore breakdown peaked 0-12 h after netting or thermoperiod onset and 12-24 h after feeding, whether the fish were exposed to these nonphotic daily stimuli at the onset or offset of 12-h photoperiods. In fish held under continuous light and pretreated with these daily stimuli, 24-h immune activity rhythms persisted in the altered phases for several days after the daily treatments were stopped. These findings suggest that a daily rhythm of immune activity may have adaptive significance in fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N J Nevid
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge 70803, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Innocenti A, Minutini L, Fo� A. Seasonal changes of locomotor activity patterns in ruin lizards Podarcis sicula. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 1994. [DOI: 10.1007/bf00167056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
46
|
Hyde LL, Underwood H. Effects of nightbreak, T-cycle, and resonance lighting schedules on the pineal melatonin rhythm of the lizard Anolis carolinensis: correlations with the reproductive response. J Pineal Res 1993; 15:70-80. [PMID: 8283387 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.1993.tb00512.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Experiments were conducted to determine if a correlation exists between any aspect of the pineal melatonin rhythm (such as its duration or phase) in the lizard Anolis carolinensis and the reproductive response to photoperiod. The rhythm of pineal melatonin content was determined in anoles exposed to nightbreak lighting protocols (10L:5D:1L:8D, 10L:10D:1L:3D), resonance lighting cycles (LD 11:13, LD 11:25), and T-cycle lighting protocols (LD 11:7, LD 11:9, LD 11:13, LD 11:15, LD 11:19) and compared with the testicular response to these lighting protocols as determined previously [Underwood and Hyde, (1990) J. Comp. Physiol. (A) 167:231-243]. Different T-cycles and nightbreak cycles elicited changes in both the duration of the melatonin peak and the phase of the melatonin peak relative to these light cycles. The response to the resonance cycle (LD 11:25) was complex, probably due to the overlapping patterns of two groups whose pineal melatonin rhythms were entrained approximately 12 hr out of phase with each other. No correlation was observed between the duration, or the amplitude, of the nocturnal melatonin peaks seen on the various light cycles and the reproductive response to these cycles. A correlation was observed between the phase of the pineal melatonin rhythm and the reproductive response. Light cycles were inductive (stimulated testicular growth) when the entrained melatonin rhythm peaked near the light-to-dark or the dark-to-light transition, but they were not inductive when the melatonin rhythm peaked during the middle third of the night. These results suggest that if melatonin is involved in the transduction of photoperiodic information in Anolis, neither the duration nor amplitude of the nocturnal melatonin pulse is involved in the measurement of day length. Instead, the phase-relationship of the melatonin rhythm to the rest of the circadian system may determine photoperiodic responsiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L L Hyde
- Department of Zoology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh 27695-7617
| | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Effect of temperature on ganglion cell activity in the photoreceptive pineal organ of rainbow trout oncorhynchus mykiss. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1993. [DOI: 10.1016/0300-9629(93)90417-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
48
|
Thibault C, Falcón J, Greenhouse SS, Lowery CA, Gern WA, Collin JP. Regulation of melatonin production by pineal photoreceptor cells: role of cyclic nucleotides in the trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). J Neurochem 1993; 61:332-9. [PMID: 8390563 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.1993.tb03572.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The light/dark cycle influences the rhythmic production of melatonin by the trout pineal organ through a modulation of the serotonin N-acetyltransferase (NAT) activity. In static organ culture, cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels (in darkness) and NAT activity (in darkness or light) were stimulated in the presence of forskolin, isobutylmethylxanthine, or theophylline. Analogues of cAMP, but not of cyclic GMP, induced an increase in NAT activity. Light, applied after dark adaptation, inhibited NAT activity. This inhibitory effect was partially prevented in the presence of drugs stimulating cAMP accumulation. In addition, cAMP accumulation and NAT activity increase, induced by forskolin, were temperature dependent. Finally, melatonin release, determined in superfused organs under normal conditions of illumination, was stimulated during the light period of a light/dark cycle by adding an analogue of cAMP or a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. However, no further increase in melatonin release was observed during the dark phase of this cycle in the presence of the drugs. This report shows for the first time that cAMP is a candidate as intracellular second messenger participating in the control of NAT activity and melatonin production by light and temperature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Thibault
- Laboratoire de Neurobiologie et Neuroendocrinologie Cellularies, URA CNRS 290, Faculté des Sciences, Université de Poitiers, France
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Provencio I, Foster RG. Vitamin A2-based photopigments within the pineal gland of a fully terrestrial vertebrate. Neurosci Lett 1993; 155:223-6. [PMID: 8377952 DOI: 10.1016/0304-3940(93)90713-u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Fully terrestrial vertebrates were previously thought to exclusively employ vitamin A1 to generate visual pigments. However, recent studies on the visual system of the lizard Anolis carolinensis have shown that its visual pigments are vitamin A2-based. This unexpected result prompted an investigation of the pineal photopigments in this species [13]. HPLC analysis has shown that this extraretinal photoreceptor also exclusively utilizes a vitamin A2-derived chromophore. The adaptive significance of this chromophore within the pineal is unclear. The extended long wavelength sensitivity characteristic of vitamin A2-based visual pigment systems may enhance important visual tasks such as prey detection or mate selection [13]. A similar argument cannot be made for the pineal, whose role is not image formation, but rather detection of the irradiance changes associated with dawn and dusk. We suggest that the pineal may passively utilize whatever retinoids have been adaptively selected by the visual system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Provencio
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville 22903
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Wiechmann AF, Wirsig-Wiechmann CR. Asymmetric distribution of melatonin receptors in the brain of the lizard Anolis carolinensis. Brain Res 1992; 593:281-6. [PMID: 1333346 DOI: 10.1016/0006-8993(92)91319-a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The pineal hormone melatonin may regulate seasonal reproduction and entrainment of circadian rhythms by binding to specific brain receptors. An analysis of melatonin receptor distribution in the lizard brain revealed an asymmetry of melatonin binding in the diencephalon. A high degree of melatonin binding was present in the left habenular nucleus, but no binding was observed in the habenulum of the right brain hemisphere. It is intriguing that the left habenular nucleus, in contrast to the right habenulum, both possesses a high density of melatonin receptors and receives primary photic input from the parietal eye. Similarly, the optic tectum, which receives primary visual input from the retina, is also rich in melatonin receptors. These observations suggest that the left habenulum is under dual control (neuronal and hormonal) of the parietal eye/pineal complex, and that melatonin may play a significant role in neural processing of visual information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A F Wiechmann
- Department of Neurobiology/Anatomy, Bowman Gray School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157
| | | |
Collapse
|