1
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Prabhat A, Malik I, Jha NA, Bhardwaj SK, Kumar V. Developmental effects of constant light on circadian behaviour and gene expressions in zebra finches: Insights into mechanisms of metabolic adaptation to aperiodic environment in diurnal animals. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY. B, BIOLOGY 2020; 211:111995. [PMID: 32836050 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2020.111995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A most crucial feature of biological adaptation is the maintenance of a close temporal relationship of behaviour and physiology with prevailing 24-h light-dark environment, which is rapidly changing with increasing nighttime illumination. This study investigated developmental effects of the loss of night on circadian behaviour, metabolism and gene expressions in diurnal zebra finches born and raised under LL, with controls on 12L:12D. Birds under LD were entrained, and showed normal body mass and a significant 24-h rhythm in both activity-rest pattern and mRNA expression of candidate genes that we measured. But, under LL, birds gained weight and accumulated lipid in the liver. Intriguingly, at the end of the experiment, the majority (4/5th) of birds under LL were rhythmic in activity despite arrhythmic expression in the hypothalamus of c-Fos (neuronal activity), Rhodopsin and Mel1-a genes (light perception), and clock genes (Bmal1, Per2 and Rev-erb β). In peripheral tissues, LL induced variable clock gene expressions. Whereas 24-h mRNA rhythm was abolished for Bmal1 in both liver and gut, it persisted for Per2 and Rev-erb β in liver, and for Per2 in gut. Further, we found under LL, the loss of 24-h rhythm in hepatic expression of Fasn and Cd36/Fat (biosynthesis and its uptake), and gut expression of Sglt1, Glut5, Cd36 and Pept1 (nutrient absorption) genes. As compared to LD, baseline mRNA levels of Fasn and Cd36 genes were attenuated under LL. Among major transporter genes, Sglt1 (glucose) and Cd36 (fat) genes were arrhythmic, while Glut5 (glucose) and Pept1 (protein) genes were rhythmic but with phase differences under LL, compared to LD. These results demonstrate dissociation of circadian behaviour from clock gene rhythms, and provide molecular insights into possible mechanisms at different levels (behaviour and physiology) that diurnal animals might employ in order to adapt to an emerging overly illuminated-night urban environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhilash Prabhat
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India
| | - Indu Malik
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India
| | - Neelu Anand Jha
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India
| | | | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Harpole CE, Miles MD, Cassone VM. Melatonin duration gates photoperiodic vocal state change in a songbird. J Pineal Res 2020; 68:e12625. [PMID: 31749228 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Seasonally breeding animals concentrate courtship to a particular time of year such that their offspring will be reared in a favorable environment. In house sparrows, Passer domesticus, primary (gonads) and secondary (song, plumage, beak color, etc) sexual characteristics are expressed differentially depending on the photoperiod. Removal of the pineal gland (PINX) has no effect on seasonal rhythms in gonad size but alters the photostimulated increase in vocal rate and complexity. Administration of long durations of melatonin, indicative of short days of winter, prevents seasonal recrudescence of song control nuclei in photostimulated house sparrows. In this study, male PINX house sparrows were exposed to three durations of melatonin, while vocalization and locomotor behavior were recorded as they were transitioned from short photoperiod to equinoctial photoperiods of spring. Birds receiving short duration melatonin or vehicle control increased dawn and dusk choruses as well as call complexity. Long durations of melatonin prevented this expansion to a spring-like vocal state observed in birds receiving the short duration of melatonin or vehicle control. The daily distribution of locomotor activity, beak color, and testis size was unaffected by treatment. Vocal state change was defined by our measures in two capacities: (i) increased dawn and dusk choruses, and (ii) an increase in calls associated with territory and mate attraction compared to the winter-like "social song." We conclude that house sparrows use the calendar information provided by melatonin duration to control seasonal vocalization behavior, independent of effects on and of the gonads.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Meredith D Miles
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Asiamah Amponsah C, Zou K, Lu LL, Zhang SW, Xue Y, Su Y, Zhao Z. Genetic effects of polymorphisms of candidate genes associated with ovary development and egg production traits in ducks. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 211:106219. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.106219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Revised: 10/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
5
|
Prabhat A, Jha NA, Taufique SKT, Kumar V. Dissociation of circadian activity and singing behavior from gene expression rhythms in the hypothalamus, song control nuclei and cerebellum in diurnal zebra finches. Chronobiol Int 2019; 36:1268-1284. [DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2019.1637887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ma S, Wang Z, Cao J, Dong Y, Chen Y. BMAL1 but not CLOCK is associated with monochromatic green light-induced circadian rhythm of melatonin in chick pinealocytes. Endocr Connect 2019; 8:57-68. [PMID: 30533004 PMCID: PMC6330720 DOI: 10.1530/ec-18-0377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The avian pineal gland, an independent circadian oscillator, receives external photic cues and translates them for the rhythmical synthesis of melatonin. Our previous study found that monochromatic green light could increase the secretion of melatonin and expression of CLOCK and BMAL1 in chick pinealocytes. This study further investigated the role of BMAL1 and CLOCK in monochromatic green light-induced melatonin secretion in chick pinealocytes using siRNAs interference and overexpression techniques. The results showed that si-BMAL1 destroyed the circadian rhythms of AANAT and melatonin, along with the disruption of the expression of all the seven clock genes, except CRY1. Furthermore, overexpression of BMAL1 also disturbed the circadian rhythms of AANAT and melatonin, in addition to causing arrhythmic expression of BMAL1 and CRY1/2, but had no effect on the circadian rhythms of CLOCK, BMAL2 and PER2/3. The knockdown or overexpression of CLOCK had no impact on the circadian rhythms of AANAT, melatonin, BMAL1 and PER2, but it significantly deregulated the circadian rhythms of CLOCK, BMAL2, CRY1/2 and PER3. These results suggested that BMAL1 rather than CLOCK plays a critical role in the regulation of monochromatic green light-induced melatonin rhythm synthesis in chicken pinealocytes. Moreover, both knockdown and overexpression of BMAL1 could change the expression levels of CRY2, it indicated CRY2 may be involved in the BMAL1 pathway by modulating the circadian rhythms of AANAT and melatonin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuhui Ma
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, China
| | - Zixu Wang
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, China
| | - Yulan Dong
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, China
| | - Yaoxing Chen
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, China
- Correspondence should be addressed to Y Chen:
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ubuka T, Tsutsui K. Comparative and Evolutionary Aspects of Gonadotropin-Inhibitory Hormone and FMRFamide-Like Peptide Systems. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:747. [PMID: 30405335 PMCID: PMC6200920 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that was found in the brain of Japanese quail when investigating the existence of RFamide peptides in birds. GnIH was named because it decreased gonadotropin release from cultured anterior pituitary, which was located in the hypothalamo-hypophysial system. GnIH and GnIH precursor gene related peptides have a characteristic C-terminal LPXRFamide (X = L or Q) motif that is conserved in jawed vertebrates. Orthologous peptides to GnIH are also named RFamide related peptide or LPXRFamide peptide from their structure. A G-protein coupled receptor GPR147 is the primary receptor for GnIH. Similarity-based clustering of neuropeptide precursors in metazoan species indicates that GnIH precursor of vertebrates is evolutionarily related to FMRFamide precursor of mollusk and nematode. FMRFamide peptide is the first RFamide peptide that was identified from the ganglia of the venus clam. In order to infer the evolutionary history of the GnIH-GnIH receptor system we investigate the structural similarities between GnIH and its receptor and well-studied nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) FMRFamide-like peptides (FLPs) and their receptors. We also compare the functions of FLPs of nematode with GnIH of chordates. A multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic analyses of GnIH, neuropeptide FF (NPFF), a paralogous peptide of GnIH, and FLP precursors have shown that GnIH and NPFF precursors belong to different clades and some FLP precursors have structural similarities to either precursor. The peptide coding regions of FLP precursors in the same clade align well with those of GnIH or NPFF precursors. Alignment of GnIH (LPXRFa) peptides of chordates and FLPs of C. elegans grouped the peptides into five groups according to the last C-terminal amino acid sequences, which were MRFa, LRFa, VRFa, IRFa, and PQRFa. Phylogenetic analysis of receptors suggested that GPR147 has evolutionary relationships with FLP receptors, which regulate reproduction, aggression, locomotion, and feeding. GnIH and some FLPs mediate the effect of stress on reproduction and behavior, which may also be a conserved property of these peptide systems. Future studies are needed to investigate the mechanism of how neuropeptide precursor genes are mutated to evolve new neuropeptides and their inheritance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takayoshi Ubuka
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology and Center for Medical Life Science, Waseda University, Shinjuku, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Tsutsui
- Laboratory of Integrative Brain Sciences, Department of Biology and Center for Medical Life Science, Waseda University, Shinjuku, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Taufique ST, Prabhat A, Kumar V. Light at night affects hippocampal and nidopallial cytoarchitecture: Implication for impairment of brain function in diurnal corvids. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2018; 331:149-156. [PMID: 30288960 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Our previous studies have shown that light at night (LAN) impaired cognitive performance and affected neurogenesis and neurochemistry in the cognition-associated brain regions, particularly the hippocampus (HP) and lateral caudal nidopallium (NCL) of Indian house crows (Corvus splendens). Here, we examined the cytoarchitecture and mapped out the morphology of neurons and glia-neuron density in HP and NCL regions of crows that were first entrained to 12-hr light (LL): 12-hr darkness (LD) and then exposed to the light regime in which 12-hr darkness was either replaced by daytime light (i.e., constant light, LL) or by dim light (i.e., dim light at night, dLAN), with controls continued on LD 12:12. Compared with LD, there was a significant decrease in the soma size, suggesting reduced neuronal plasticity without affecting the neuronal density of both HP and NCL of crows under LL and dLAN conditions. In parallel, we found a reduced number of glia cells and, hence, decreased glia-neuron ratio positively correlated with soma size in both, HP and NCL regions. These results for the first time demonstrate LAN-induced negative effects on the brain cytoarchitecture of a diurnal species and give insight for possible influence on the brain health and functions in animals including humans that might be inadvertently exposed to LAN in an emerging night-illuminated urban environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Feng P, Zhao W, Xie Q, Zeng T, Lu L, Yang L. Polymorphisms of melatonin receptor genes and their associations with egg production traits in Shaoxing duck. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2018; 31:1535-1541. [PMID: 29642678 PMCID: PMC6127595 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.17.0828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Revised: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In birds, three types of melatonin receptors (MTNR1A, MTNR1B, and MTNR1C) have been cloned. Previous researches have showed that three melatonin receptors played an essential role in reproduction and ovarian physiology. However, the association of polymorphisms of the three receptors with duck reproduction traits and egg quality traits is still unknown. In this test, we chose MTNR1A, MTNR1B, and MTNR1C as candidate genes to detect novel sequence polymorphism and analyze their association with egg production traits in Shaoxing duck, and detected their mRNA expression level in ovaries. METHODS In this study, a total of 785 duck blood samples were collected to investigate the association of melatonin receptor genes with egg production traits and egg quality traits using a direct sequencing method. And 6 ducks representing two groups (3 of each) according to the age at first eggs (at 128 days of age or after 150 days of age) were carefully selected for quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Seven novel polymorphisms (MTNR1A: g. 268C>T, MTNR1B: g. 41C>T, and g. 161T>C, MTNR1C: g. 10C>T, g. 24A>G, g. 108C>T, g. 363 T>C) were detected. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of MTNR1A (g. 268C>T) was significantly linked with the age at first egg (p<0.05). And a statistically significant association (p<0.05) was found between MTNR1C g.108 C>T and egg production traits: total egg numbers at 34 weeks old of age and age at first egg. In addition, the mRNA expression level of MTNR1A in ovary was significantly higher in late-mature group than in early-mature group, while MTNR1C showed a contrary tendency (p<0.05). CONCLUSION These results suggest that identified SNPs in MTNR1A and MTNR1C may influence the age at first egg and could be considered as the candidate molecular marker for identify early maturely traits in duck selection and improvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peishi Feng
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Wanqiu Zhao
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
- College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qiang Xie
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Tao Zeng
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Lizhi Lu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Lin Yang
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ovid D, Hayes TB, Bentley GE. Melatonin Administration Methods for Research in Mammals and Birds. J Biol Rhythms 2018; 33:567-588. [PMID: 30246597 DOI: 10.1177/0748730418795802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine research in animals often entails exogenous hormone administration. Special issues arise when developing administration protocols for hormones with circadian and seasonal periodicity. This article reviews various methods for the exogenous administration of hormones with such periodicities by focusing on melatonin. We discuss that methodological variations across studies can affect experimental results. Melatonin administration techniques used in vertebrates includes infusion pumps, beeswax pellets, oral administration, injections, SILASTIC capsules, osmotic pumps, transdermal delivery, beads, and sponges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dax Ovid
- University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
viviD D, Bentley GE. Seasonal Reproduction in Vertebrates: Melatonin Synthesis, Binding, and Functionality Using Tinbergen's Four Questions. Molecules 2018; 23:E652. [PMID: 29534047 PMCID: PMC6017951 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23030652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 02/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the many functions of melatonin in vertebrates is seasonal reproductive timing. Longer nights in winter correspond to an extended duration of melatonin secretion. The purpose of this review is to discuss melatonin synthesis, receptor subtypes, and function in the context of seasonality across vertebrates. We conclude with Tinbergen's Four Questions to create a comparative framework for future melatonin research in the context of seasonal reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dax viviD
- Berkeley Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
| | - George E Bentley
- Berkeley Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Potter H, Alenciks E, Frazier K, Porter A, Fraley GS. Immunolesion of melanopsin neurons causes gonadal regression in Pekin drakes (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 256:16-22. [PMID: 28782536 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2017.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Several light sensitive receptors have been described in the avian brain that are thought to regulate the reproductive axis independently from the eyes and pineal gland. Recently, our lab has described the presence of three of these photoneuroendocrine systems in the Pekin duck: opsin, opsin 5, & melanopsin. We set out to test the hypothesis that melanopsin receptive neurons are necessary to maintain seasonal reproductive status along with growth and development in the Pekin drake. To accomplish these goals we first investigated 50-week-old Pekin drakes that were housed in the aviary at Hope College under long day length (18h lights on) conditions in floor pens. To specifically lesion melanopsin-receptive neurons, 3μl of an anti-melanopsin-saporin conjugate (MSAP, 100ng/ul) was injected into the lateral ventricle (n=10). Control drakes were injected with 3μl of equimolar unconjugated anti-melanopsin and saporin (SAP, n=10). Reproductive behaviors were analyzed weekly in a test pen with adult hens and MSAP drakes showed a significant (p<0.01) reduction in reproductive behaviors after week 2. After 5weeks, drakes were euthanized and body weights were measured, and brains, pituitaries, and testes collected and stored for analyses. Mature MSAP-treated drakes had significantly (p<0.001) reduced relative teste weights compared to SAP controls. qRT-PCR analyses of hypothalamus showed a significant reduction (p<0.001) in GnRH and melanopsin mRNA levels, but not opsin 5, vertebrate ancient opsin, or opsin 2 (rhodopsin). Immunocytochemical analyses showed a significant reduction (p<0.01) in tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactivity in the PMM. These data suggest that although blue light alone is not able to maintain testicular function, the blue-light sensitive melanopsin activity is critical to maintain gonadal function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Potter
- Biology Department, Hope College, Holland, MI, USA
| | - E Alenciks
- Biology Department, Hope College, Holland, MI, USA
| | - K Frazier
- Biology Department, Hope College, Holland, MI, USA
| | - A Porter
- Biology Department, Hope College, Holland, MI, USA
| | - G S Fraley
- Biology Department, Hope College, Holland, MI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Erland LAE, Saxena PK, Murch SJ. Melatonin in plant signalling and behaviour. FUNCTIONAL PLANT BIOLOGY : FPB 2018; 45:58-69. [PMID: 32291021 DOI: 10.1071/fp16384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2017] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin is an indoleamine neurotransmitter that has recently become well established as an important multi-functional signalling molecule in plants. These signals have been found to induce several important physiological responses that may be interpreted as behaviours. The diverse processes in which melatonin has been implicated in plants have expanded far beyond the traditional roles for which it has been implicated in mammals, which include sleep, tropisms and reproduction. These functions, however, appear to also be important melatonin mediated processes in plants, though the mechanisms underlying these functions have yet to be fully elucidated. Mediation or redirection of plant physiological processes induced by melatonin can be summarised as a series of behaviours including, among others: herbivore defence, avoidance of undesirable circumstances or attraction to opportune conditions, problem solving and response to environmental stimulus. As the mechanisms of melatonin action are elucidated, its involvement in plant growth, development and behaviour is likely to expand beyond the aspects discussed in this review and hold promise for applications in diverse fundamental and applied plant sciences including conservation, cryopreservation, morphogenesis, industrial agriculture and natural health products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A E Erland
- Gosling Research Institute for Plant Preservation, Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Praveen K Saxena
- Gosling Research Institute for Plant Preservation, Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Susan J Murch
- Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Okanagan, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 1V7, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Jha NA, Kumar V. Effect of no-night light environment on behaviour, learning performance and personality in zebra finches. Anim Behav 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2017.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
16
|
Female conspecifics restore rhythmic singing behaviour in arrhythmic male zebra finches. J Biosci 2017; 42:139-147. [DOI: 10.1007/s12038-017-9664-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
17
|
Differential activation and tyrosine hydroxylase distribution in the hippocampal, pallial and midbrain brain regions in response to cognitive performance in Indian house crows exposed to abrupt light environment. Behav Brain Res 2016; 314:21-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.07.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Revised: 07/24/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
18
|
Surbhi, Rastogi A, Malik S, Rani S, Kumar V. Seasonal neuronal plasticity in song-control and auditory forebrain areas in subtropical nonmigratory and palearctic-indian migratory male songbirds. J Comp Neurol 2016; 524:2914-29. [DOI: 10.1002/cne.24000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Surbhi
- DST-IRHPA Center for Excellence in Biological Rhythms Research and Indo-U.S. Center for Biological Timing, University of Delhi; Delhi 110 007 India
- Department of Zoology; University of Delhi; Delhi 110 007 India
| | - Ashutosh Rastogi
- DST-IRHPA Center for Excellence in Biological Rhythms Research and Indo-U.S. Center for Biological Timing, University of Delhi; Delhi 110 007 India
- Department of Zoology; University of Lucknow; Lucknow 226 007 India
| | - Shalie Malik
- DST-IRHPA Center for Excellence in Biological Rhythms Research and Indo-U.S. Center for Biological Timing, University of Delhi; Delhi 110 007 India
- Department of Zoology; University of Lucknow; Lucknow 226 007 India
| | - Sangeeta Rani
- DST-IRHPA Center for Excellence in Biological Rhythms Research and Indo-U.S. Center for Biological Timing, University of Delhi; Delhi 110 007 India
- Department of Zoology; University of Lucknow; Lucknow 226 007 India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- DST-IRHPA Center for Excellence in Biological Rhythms Research and Indo-U.S. Center for Biological Timing, University of Delhi; Delhi 110 007 India
- Department of Zoology; University of Delhi; Delhi 110 007 India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Rastogi A, Malik S, Rani S, Kumar V. Changes in brain peptides associated with reproduction and energy homeostasis in photosensitive and photorefractory migratory redheaded buntings. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 230-231:67-75. [PMID: 27038875 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2016.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2015] [Revised: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Present study examined the expression of brain peptides associated with the reproduction and energy homeostasis (GnRH/GnIH, NPY/VIP), and assessed their possible functional association in the photosensitive (non-breeding, pre-breeding), photostimulated (breeding) and photorefractory (post-breeding) migratory redheaded buntings (Emberiza bruniceps), using double-labeled immunohistochemistry. Particularly, we measured immunoreactive (-ir) cell numbers, per cent cell area and cell optical density (OD) in the preoptic area (GnRH-I), midbrain (GnRH-II), paraventricular nucleus (GnIH), dorsomedial hypothalamus, DMH and infundibular complex, INc (NPY and VIP), and lateral septal organ (VIP) of buntings kept under natural photoperiods at the wintering latitude (26°55'N). There was a significant seasonal difference in GnRH-I, not GnRH-II, with reduced -ir cells in the photosensitive and photorefractory buntings, and notably with increased cell OD between the refractory and non-breeding states with no increase in testis size. Also, increased cell OD of GnIH neurons in non-breeding state indicated its role in the maintenance of small testes during the post-refractory period. Overall, seasonal changes in GnRH-I and GnIH were found consistent with their suggested roles in reproductive regulation of absolute photorefractory birds. Further, there was a significant seasonal change in cell OD of NPY neurons in DMH, not the INc. In contrast, VIP immunoreactivity was seasonally altered, with a significantly higher VIP-ir cells in breeding than the pre-breeding state. Finally, close proximity between perikarya with fibres suggested functional interactions between the GnRH and GnIH, and NPY and VIP. Thus, seasonal plasticity of brain peptides is perhaps the part of neural regulation of seasonal reproduction and associated energy homeostasis in migratory songbirds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashutosh Rastogi
- Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226 007, India
| | - Shalie Malik
- Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226 007, India
| | - Sangeeta Rani
- Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226 007, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Pinealectomy abolishes circadian behavior and interferes with circadian clock gene oscillations in brain and liver but not retina in a migratory songbird. Physiol Behav 2016; 156:156-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2015] [Revised: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
21
|
Kumar V. Avian photoreceptors and their role in the regulation of daily and seasonal physiology. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2015; 220:13-22. [PMID: 24929229 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2014] [Revised: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/01/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Birds time their activities in synchronization with daily and seasonal periodicities in the environment, which is mainly provided by changes in day length (=photoperiod). Photoperiod appears to act at different levels than simply entraining the hypothalamic clock via eyes in birds. Photoreceptor cells that transmit light information to an avian brain are localized in three independent structures, the retina of eyes, pineal gland and hypothalamus, particularly in the paraventricular organ and lateral septal area. These hypothalamic photoreceptors are commonly referred to as encephalic or deep brain photoreceptors, DBPs. Eyes and pineal are known to contribute to the circadian regulation of behavior and physiology via rhythmic melatonin secretion in several birds. DBPs have been implicated in the regulation of seasonal physiology, particularly in photoperiod induced gonadal growth and development. Here, we briefly review limited evidence that is available on the roles of these photoreceptors in the regulation of circadian and seasonal physiology, with particular emphasis placed on the DBPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinod Kumar
- DST-IRHPA Center for Excellence in Biological Rhythms Research and Indo US Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Rastogi A, Rani S, Kumar V. Seasonal plasticity in the peptide neuronal systems: potential roles of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone, gonadotrophin-inhibiting hormone, neuropeptide Y and vasoactive intestinal peptide in the regulation of the reproductive axis in subtropical Indian weaver birds. J Neuroendocrinol 2015; 27:357-69. [PMID: 25754834 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2014] [Revised: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Two experiments examined the expression of gonadotrophin-releasing and inhibiting hormones (GnRH-I, GnRH-II and GnIH), neuropeptide Y (NPY) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in subtropical Indian weaver birds, which demonstrate relative photorefractoriness. Experiment 1 measured peptide expression levels in the form of immunoreactive (-IR) cells, percentage cell area and cell optical density in the preoptic area (GnRH-I), midbrain (GnRH-II), paraventricular nucleus (GnIH), mediobasal hypothalamus [dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH), infundibular complex (INc), NPY and VIP] and lateral septal organ (VIP) during the progressive, breeding, regressive and nonbreeding phases of the annual reproductive cycle. GnRH-I was decreased in the nonbreeding and VIP was increased in INc in the breeding and regressive states. GnRH-II and NPY levels did not differ between the testicular phases. Double-labelled immunohistochemistry (IHC) revealed a close association between the GnRH/GnIH, GnRH/NPY, GnRH/VIP and GnIH/NPY peptide systems, implicating them interacting and playing roles in the reproductive regulation in weaver birds. Experiment 2 further measured these peptide levels in the middle of day and night in weaver birds that were maintained under short days (8 : 16 h light /dark cycle; photosensitive), exposed to ten long days (16 : 8 h light /dark cycle; photostimulated) or maintained for approximately 2 years on a 16 : 8 h light /dark cycle (photorefractory). Reproductively immature testes in these groups precluded the possible effect of an enhanced gonadal feedback on the hypothalamic peptide expression. There were group differences in the GnRH-I (not GnRH-II), GnIH, NPY and VIP immunoreactivity, albeit with variations in immunoreactivity measures in the present study. These results, which are consistent with those reported in birds with relative photorefractoriness, show the distribution and possibly a complex interaction of key neuropeptides in the regulation of the annual reproductive cycle in Indian weaver birds.
Collapse
|