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Farag HI, Murphy BA, Templeman JR, Hanlon C, Joshua J, Koch TG, Niel L, Shoveller AK, Bedecarrats GY, Ellison A, Wilcockson D, Martino TA. One Health: Circadian Medicine Benefits Both Non-human Animals and Humans Alike. J Biol Rhythms 2024; 39:237-269. [PMID: 38379166 PMCID: PMC11141112 DOI: 10.1177/07487304241228021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Circadian biology's impact on human physical health and its role in disease development and progression is widely recognized. The forefront of circadian rhythm research now focuses on translational applications to clinical medicine, aiming to enhance disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment responses. However, the field of circadian medicine has predominantly concentrated on human healthcare, neglecting its potential for transformative applications in veterinary medicine, thereby overlooking opportunities to improve non-human animal health and welfare. This review consists of three main sections. The first section focuses on the translational potential of circadian medicine into current industry practices of agricultural animals, with a particular emphasis on horses, broiler chickens, and laying hens. The second section delves into the potential applications of circadian medicine in small animal veterinary care, primarily focusing on our companion animals, namely dogs and cats. The final section explores emerging frontiers in circadian medicine, encompassing aquaculture, veterinary hospital care, and non-human animal welfare and concludes with the integration of One Health principles. In summary, circadian medicine represents a highly promising field of medicine that holds the potential to significantly enhance the clinical care and overall health of all animals, extending its impact beyond human healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham I. Farag
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Centre for Cardiovascular Investigations, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Barbara A. Murphy
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - James R. Templeman
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Charlene Hanlon
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Jessica Joshua
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Thomas G. Koch
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Lee Niel
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Anna K. Shoveller
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | | | - Amy Ellison
- School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - David Wilcockson
- Department of Life Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, UK
| | - Tami A. Martino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Centre for Cardiovascular Investigations, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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Marchese NA, Ríos MN, Guido ME, Valdez DJ. Three different seasonally expressed opsins are present in the brain of the Eared Dove, an opportunist breeder. ZOOLOGY 2024; 162:126147. [PMID: 38277721 DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2024.126147] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Birds living at high latitudes perceive the photoperiod through deep-brain photoreceptors (DBP) located in deep-brain neurons. During long photoperiods the information transmitted by these photoreceptors increases the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, leading to gonadal development. The presence of photopigments such as VA-Opsin, Opn4, Opn5 and Opn2 in brain areas implicated in reproductive behaviors has been firmly established in several avian species with seasonal breeding, whereas their existence in opportunistic breeding birds remains unconfirmed. The Eared Dove is an urban and peri-urban dove that breeds throughout the year. Males of this species do not exhibit the typical gonadal regression/recrudescence cycle, thus posing the question of what occurs upstream of the HPG axis. We addressed this issue by first studying the presence of diverse opsins located in DBP in the brains of Eared Dove males and whether these photopigments changed their expression throughout the year. We carried out an immunohistochemistry analysis on three different opsins: Opn2 (rhodopsin), Opn3 and Opn5. Our results demonstrate the discrete neuroanatomical distribution of these opsins in the brain of Eared Dove males and strongly indicate different seasonal expressions. In the anterior region of the hypothalamus, Opn2-positive cells were detected throughout the year. By contrast, Opn5 was found to be strongly and seasonally expressed during winter in the anterior and the hypothalamic region. Opn3 was also found to be significantly and seasonally expressed during winter in the hypothalamic region. We thus demonstrate for the first time that males of the Eared Dove, have three different deep-brain opsin-expressing photoreceptors with differential location/distribution in the anterior and hypothalamic region and differential seasonality. The persistence of Opn2 and the strong seasonal expression of nonvisual photopigments Opn3 and Opn5 in two areas of the avian brain, which are associated with reproduction, could be the primary distinction between seasonal and opportunistic breeders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia A Marchese
- Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC), CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Departamento de Química Biológica "Ranwel Caputto" Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Maximiliano N Ríos
- Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC), CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Departamento de Química Biológica "Ranwel Caputto" Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Mario E Guido
- Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC), CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina; Departamento de Química Biológica "Ranwel Caputto" Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Diego J Valdez
- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales. Centro de Zoología Aplicada, Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Diversidad y Ecología Animal (IDEA), Córdoba, Argentina.
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3
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Santillo S, De Petrocellis L, Musio C. Diurnal and circadian regulation of opsin-like transcripts in the eyeless cnidarian Hydra. Biomol Concepts 2024; 15:bmc-2022-0044. [PMID: 38502542 DOI: 10.1515/bmc-2022-0044] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Opsins play a key role in the ability to sense light both in image-forming vision and in non-visual photoreception (NVP). These modalities, in most animal phyla, share the photoreceptor protein: an opsin-based protein binding a light-sensitive chromophore by a lysine (Lys) residue. So far, visual and non-visual opsins have been discovered throughout the Metazoa phyla, including the photoresponsive Hydra, an eyeless cnidarian considered the evolutionary sister species to bilaterians. To verify whether light influences and modulates opsin gene expression in Hydra, we utilized four expression sequence tags, similar to two classic opsins (SW rhodopsin and SW blue-sensitive opsin) and two non-visual opsins (melanopsin and peropsin), in investigating the expression patterns during both diurnal and circadian time, by means of a quantitative RT-PCR. The expression levels of all four genes fluctuated along the light hours of diurnal cycle with respect to the darkness one and, in constant dark condition of the circadian cycle, they increased. The monophasic behavior in the L12:D12 cycle turned into a triphasic expression profile during the continuous darkness condition. Consequently, while the diurnal opsin-like expression revealed a close dependence on light hours, the highest transcript levels were found in darkness, leading us to novel hypothesis that in Hydra, an "internal" biological rhythm autonomously supplies the opsins expression during the circadian time. In conclusion, in Hydra, both diurnal and circadian rhythms apparently regulate the expression of the so-called visual and non-visual opsins, as already demonstrated in higher invertebrate and vertebrate species. Our data confirm that Hydra is a suitable model for studying ancestral precursor of both visual and NVP, providing useful hints on the evolution of visual and photosensory systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Santillo
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems "Eduardo Caianiello" (ISASI), National Research Council (CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli (Naples), Italy
| | - Luciano De Petrocellis
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry (ICB), National Research Council (CNR), 80078 Pozzuoli (Naples), Italy
| | - Carlo Musio
- Institute of Biophysics (IBF), Trento Unit, National Research Council (CNR), Via Sommarive 18, 38123 Trento, Italy
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4
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Pan D, Wang Z, Chen Y, Cao J. Melanopsin-mediated optical entrainment regulates circadian rhythms in vertebrates. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1054. [PMID: 37853054 PMCID: PMC10584931 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05432-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanopsin (OPN4) is a light-sensitive protein that plays a vital role in the regulation of circadian rhythms and other nonvisual functions. Current research on OPN4 has focused on mammals; more evidence is needed from non-mammalian vertebrates to fully assess the significance of the non-visual photosensitization of OPN4 for circadian rhythm regulation. There are species differences in the regulatory mechanisms of OPN4 for vertebrate circadian rhythms, which may be due to the differences in the cutting variants, tissue localization, and photosensitive activation pathway of OPN4. We here summarize the distribution of OPN4 in mammals, birds, and teleost fish, and the classical excitation mode for the non-visual photosensitive function of OPN4 in mammals is discussed. In addition, the role of OPN4-expressing cells in regulating circadian rhythm in different vertebrates is highlighted, and the potential rhythmic regulatory effects of various neuropeptides or neurotransmitters expressed in mammalian OPN4-expressing ganglion cells are summarized among them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deng Pan
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, 100193, Beijing, China
| | - Zixu Wang
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, 100193, Beijing, China
| | - Yaoxing Chen
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, 100193, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, 100193, Beijing, China.
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Bhoi JD, Goel M, Ribelayga CP, Mangel SC. Circadian clock organization in the retina: From clock components to rod and cone pathways and visual function. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 94:101119. [PMID: 36503722 PMCID: PMC10164718 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Circadian (24-h) clocks are cell-autonomous biological oscillators that orchestrate many aspects of our physiology on a daily basis. Numerous circadian rhythms in mammalian and non-mammalian retinas have been observed and the presence of an endogenous circadian clock has been demonstrated. However, how the clock and associated rhythms assemble into pathways that support and control retina function remains largely unknown. Our goal here is to review the current status of our knowledge and evaluate recent advances. We describe many previously-observed retinal rhythms, including circadian rhythms of morphology, biochemistry, physiology, and gene expression. We evaluate evidence concerning the location and molecular machinery of the retinal circadian clock, as well as consider findings that suggest the presence of multiple clocks. Our primary focus though is to describe in depth circadian rhythms in the light responses of retinal neurons with an emphasis on clock control of rod and cone pathways. We examine evidence that specific biochemical mechanisms produce these daily light response changes. We also discuss evidence for the presence of multiple circadian retinal pathways involving rhythms in neurotransmitter activity, transmitter receptors, metabolism, and pH. We focus on distinct actions of two dopamine receptor systems in the outer retina, a dopamine D4 receptor system that mediates circadian control of rod/cone gap junction coupling and a dopamine D1 receptor system that mediates non-circadian, light/dark adaptive regulation of gap junction coupling between horizontal cells. Finally, we evaluate the role of circadian rhythmicity in retinal degeneration and suggest future directions for the field of retinal circadian biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob D Bhoi
- Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, McGovern Medical School, UTHEALTH-The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Neuroscience Honors Research Program, William Marsh Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Manvi Goel
- Department of Neuroscience, Wexner Medical Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Christophe P Ribelayga
- Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, McGovern Medical School, UTHEALTH-The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Neuroscience Honors Research Program, William Marsh Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Stuart C Mangel
- Department of Neuroscience, Wexner Medical Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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6
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Karthikeyan R, Davies WI, Gunhaga L. Non-image-forming functional roles of OPN3, OPN4 and OPN5 photopigments. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpap.2023.100177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
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7
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Pérez JH, Tolla E, Bishop VR, Foster RG, Peirson SN, Dunn IC, Meddle SL, Stevenson TJ. Functional inhibition of deep brain non-visual opsins facilitates acute long day induction of reproductive recrudescence in male Japanese quail. Horm Behav 2023; 148:105298. [PMID: 36621293 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
For nearly a century, we have known that brain photoreceptors regulate avian seasonal biology. Two photopigments, vertebrate ancient opsin (VA) and neuropsin (OPN5), provide possible molecular substrates for these photoreceptor pathways. VA fulfills many criteria for providing light input to the reproductive response, but a functional link has yet to be demonstrated. This study examined the role of VA and OPN5 in the avian photoperiodic response of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). Non-breeding male quail were housed under short days (6L:18D) and received an intracerebroventricular infusion of adeno-associated viral vectors with shRNAi that selectively inhibited either VA or OPN5. An empty viral vector acted as a control. Quail were then photostimulated (16L:8D) to stimulate gonadal growth. Two long days significantly increased pituitary thyrotrophin-stimulating hormone β-subunit (TSHβ) and luteinizing hormone β-subunit (LHβ) mRNA of VA shRNAi treated quail compared to controls. Furthermore, at one week there was a significant increase, compared to controls, in both hypothalamic gonadotrophin releasing hormone-I (GnRH-I) mRNA and paired testicular mass in VA shRNAi birds. Opn5 shRNAi facilitated the photoinduced increase in TSHβ mRNA at 2 days, but no other differences were identified compared to controls. Contrary to our expectations, the silencing of deep brain photoreceptors enhanced the response of the reproductive axis to photostimulation rather than preventing it. In addition, we show that VA opsin plays a dominant role in the light-dependent neuroendocrine control of seasonal reproduction in birds. Together our findings suggest the photoperiodic response involves at least two photoreceptor types and populations working together with VA opsin playing a dominant role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan H Pérez
- Biology Department, The University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA.
| | - Elisabetta Tolla
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Valerie R Bishop
- The Roslin Institute, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Russell G Foster
- Sir Jules Thorn Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute (SCNi), Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Stuart N Peirson
- Sir Jules Thorn Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute (SCNi), Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Ian C Dunn
- The Roslin Institute, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Simone L Meddle
- The Roslin Institute, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Tyler J Stevenson
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, Scotland, United Kingdom
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8
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Pérez JH. Light receptors in the avian brain and seasonal reproduction. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 337:985-993. [PMID: 36052512 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Detection and transduction of photic cues by nonvisual photoreceptors, located in the deep brain, is a critical component of timing seasonal reproduction in birds. However, the precise identity of the photoreceptors responsible for detection of salient photic cues remains uncertain and debated. Here I review of the existing evidence for each of the three candidate photoreceptive opsins: Vertebrate Ancient Opsin, Melanopsin, and Neuropsin, including localization, action spectrum, and data from experimental manipulation of opsin expression. These findings are compared to an updated list of key criteria established in the literature as a litmus for classifying an opsin as the "breeding photoreceptor." Integrating evidence for each of the candidate photoreceptors with respect to these criteria reveals support for all three opsins in regulation of seasonal reproduction. Taken together these findings strongly suggest that transduction of seasonal photoperiodic information involves the activity of multiple photoreceptor types and populations functioning in concert. This review also highlights the need to shift attention from simply identifying "the breeding photoreceptor" to a more integrative approach aiming to parse the contribution of specific photoreceptor populations within the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan H Pérez
- Department of Biology, The University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA
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9
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Renthlei Z, Yatung S, Lalpekhlui R, Trivedi AK. Seasonality in tropical birds. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 337:952-966. [PMID: 35982509 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The survival of offspring depends on environmental conditions. Many organisms have evolved with seasonality, characterized as initiation-termination-reinitiation of several physiological processes (i.e., body fattening, molt, plumage coloration, reproduction, etc). It is an adaptation for the survival of many species. Predominantly seasonal breeders use photoperiod as the most reliable environmental cue to adapt to seasonal changes but supplementary factors like temperature and food are synergistically involved in seasonal processes. Studies from diverse vertebrate systems have contributed to understanding the mechanism involved in seasonal reproduction at the molecular and endocrine levels. Long-day induced thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone) released from the pars tuberalis of the pituitary gland triggers local thyroid hormone activation within the mediobasal hypothalamus. This locally produced thyroid hormone, T3, regulates seasonal gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion. Most of the bird species studied are seasonal in reproduction and linked behavior and, therefore, need to adjust reproductive decisions to environmental fluctuations. Reproductive strategies of the temperate zone breeders are well-documented, but less is known about tropical birds' reproduction and factors stimulating the annual breeding strategies. Here, we address seasonality in tropical birds with reference to seasonal reproduction and the various environmental factors influencing seasonal breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Subu Yatung
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, India
| | - Ruth Lalpekhlui
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, India
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10
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Vilani NMJ, Monteiro DALV, Einat H, Jerome B, Fix VD, de Lauro CAM, Oliveira BDM. Melanopsin expression in the retinas of owls with different daily activity patterns. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpap.2022.100155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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11
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Dekens MPS, Fontinha BM, Gallach M, Pflügler S, Tessmar‐Raible K. Melanopsin elevates locomotor activity during the wake state of the diurnal zebrafish. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e51528. [PMID: 35233929 PMCID: PMC9066073 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202051528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian and fish pineals play a key role in adapting behaviour to the ambient light conditions through the release of melatonin. In mice, light inhibits nocturnal locomotor activity via the non‐visual photoreceptor Melanopsin. In contrast to the extensively studied function of Melanopsin in the indirect regulation of the rodent pineal, its role in the intrinsically photosensitive zebrafish pineal has not been elucidated. Therefore, it is not evident if the light signalling mechanism is conserved between distant vertebrates, and how Melanopsin could affect diurnal behaviour. A double knockout of melanopsins (opn4.1‐opn4xb) was generated in the diurnal zebrafish, which manifests attenuated locomotor activity during the wake state. Transcriptome sequencing gave insight into pathways downstream of Melanopsin, implying that sustained repression of the melatonin pathway is required to elevate locomotor activity during the diurnal wake state. Moreover, we show that light induces locomotor activity during the diurnal wake state in an intensity‐dependent manner. These observations suggest a common Melanopsin‐driven mechanism between zebrafish and mammals, while the diurnal and nocturnal chronotypes are inversely regulated downstream of melatonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus P S Dekens
- Max Perutz Laboratory Centre for Molecular Biology University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Bruno M Fontinha
- Max Perutz Laboratory Centre for Molecular Biology University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Miguel Gallach
- Max Perutz Laboratory Centre for Molecular Biology University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
- Max Perutz Laboratory Centre for Integrative Bioinformatics University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Sandra Pflügler
- Max Perutz Laboratory Centre for Molecular Biology University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Kristin Tessmar‐Raible
- Max Perutz Laboratory Centre for Molecular Biology University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
- Research Platform “Marine Rhythms of Life” University of Vienna Vienna Austria
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12
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Molecular and epigenetic regulation of seasonal reproduction in Terai tree frog (Polypedates teraiensis). Photochem Photobiol Sci 2022; 21:1067-1076. [PMID: 35262895 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-022-00195-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Seasonal breeders predominantly use photoperiod as the predictable environmental cue to time their reproduction. Terai tree frogs are long-day seasonal breeders, but the molecular mechanism is unknown. We tested the role of different photoperiodic conditions on expression levels of candidate genes involved in seasonal reproduction and epigenetic regulation. Four experiments were performed. In experiment 1, frogs were exposed to long (LD: 16L:8D) or short photoperiod (SD: 8L:16D). In experiment 2, animals were procured at four different phases of breeding, i.e., during April (emergence just after hibernation), June (breeding phase), August (post-breeding), and October (just before hibernation). In experiments 3 and 4, frogs were exposed to equinox photoperiod but different (10, 100, or 500 lx) light intensities (exp. 3) or wavelength (red: 640 nm, green: 540 nm, blue: 450 nm or white; exp. 4). After 2 weeks, animals were euthanized, and their brain was harvested. mRNA levels of transcripts involved in photoperiodic transduction (Eya3 and Opn5), reproduction (Tshß, GnRH, Dio2, and Dio3), and epigenetics regulation (Dnmt1, Dnmt3a, Hdac1, Hdac3, and Tet2) were measured. Results show that LD promotes the upregulation of Eya3, Opn5, Tshß, GnRH, and Dio2. Differential expression of Opn5 during LD and SD suggests its involvement in light perception. Dio3 levels were upregulated in SD (exp.1) and during the post-breeding phase (exp. 2). These results employ the limited role of light intensity and spectrum in reproduction. This is the first study showing molecular machinery involved in the amphibian system's seasonal reproduction and epigenetic regulation.
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Wei Y, Zheng W, Tong Q, Li Z, Li B, Shi H, Wang Y. Effects of blue-green LED lights with two perceived illuminance (human and poultry) on immune performance and skeletal development of layer chickens. Poult Sci 2022; 101:101855. [PMID: 35550997 PMCID: PMC9108713 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.101855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Light is one of the essential environmental factors in the production process of laying hens, which can directly affect their behavior, growth and development, and production performance. The spectral sensitivity of humans is different from that of poultry, and the perceived illuminance units of human and poultry are lux and clux, respectively. If the light management of laying hen production is carried out according to human perceived illuminance, the growth and development of laying hens during pullet rearing may be adversely affected due to the discomfort of the perceived illuminance. Preliminary research has found that blue-green LED light can improve the immune function of laying hens during the brooding and rearing periods. However, the differences of the effects caused by blue-green light on the immune performance and bone development of laying hens during pullet rearing are still unclear for the 2 spectral sensitivities. A total of 120 Jinghong layer chickens were raised from 1 d to 13 wk of age in one of three groups with a white LED light (light intensity unit lux, WL) group, a blue-green LED light (light intensity unit lux, HBGL) group, and blue-green LED light (light intensity unit clux, PBGL) group, and unlimited feed and water were provided during the whole experiment. At 7 and 13 wk of age, the immune performance, bone parameters, and related gene expression were investigated. The results showed that compared with the WL groups, HBGL and PBGL increased the immunoglobulin A (IgA) content at 13 wk of age and the IgM content at 7 wk of age (P < 0.05). The bone mineral density (BMD) at 7 and 13 wk of age and tibial strength (TS) at 13 wk of age of the pullets in the WL group were significantly higher than those in the HBGL and PBGL group (P < 0.05). Osteoclastogenesis inhibitory factor gene (OPG mRNA) expression was increased in the layer chickens at the age of 7 and 13 wk for the WL group (P < 0.05). Compared with the WL group and PBGL group, the melanopsin gene (OPN4 mRNA) transcription level of hypothalamus and pineal gland of the chickens under HBGL significantly increased at 7 and 13 wk of age (P < 0.05). In conclusion, blue-green LED light with two perceived illuminance (human and poultry) can increase the Ig content and the immune performance of layer chickens, and blue-green LED light (light intensity unit lux) can promote the expression of OPN4 gene in the hypothalamus and pineal gland. In addition, white LED light can enhance bone quality by increasing tibia OPG gene expression.
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Ma H, Yang MS, Zhang YT, Qiu HT, You XX, Chen SX, Hong WS. Expressions of melanopsins in telencephalon imply their function in synchronizing semilunar spawning rhythm in the mudskipper Boleophthalmus pectinirostris. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2022; 315:113926. [PMID: 34653434 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2021.113926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The mudskipper Boleophthalmus pectinirostris inhabits intertidal mudflats, exhibiting semilunar reproductive rhythms. To investigate whether melanopsin is possibly involved in the synchronization of the semilunar spawning rhythm in the female mudskipper, we first cloned all four melanopsin subtypes (opn4m1, opn4m3, opn4x1, opn4x2) in B. pectinirostris. Results from RTq-PCR showed that significantly higher transcription levels of all four melanopsin subtypes were observed in the eyes rather than other tissues. In brain, all four melanopsin subtypes were also detectable in different regions, including the telencephalon, in which the expression of melanopsin has not been reported in other teleosts. The transcription levels of opn4m3 and opn4x1 in the telencephalon exhibited a daily fluctuation pattern. When females entered the spawning season, opn4m1 and opn4x1 transcript levels increased significantly in the telencephalon. During the spawning season, the transcript levels of opn4m3 and opn4x1 in the telencephalon appeared to have a cyclic pattern associated with semilunar periodicity, exhibiting two cycles with a peak around the first or the last lunar quarters. Results from ISH showed that, opn4x1 mRNA was localized in the medial of dorsal telencephalic area, dorsal nucleus of ventral telencephalic area (Vd), ventral nucleus of ventral telencephalic area (Vv), anterior part of parvocellular preoptic nucleus, magnocellular part of the magnocellular preoptic nucleus (PMmc), habenular and ventral zone of hypothalamus. Intriguingly, gnrh3 mRNA was also located in Vd, Vv and PMmc. Taken together, our results suggested that melanopsins, e.g. opn4x1, expressed in the telencephalon might mediate semilunar spawning activity in the female mudskipper.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Ming Shu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yu Ting Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Heng Tong Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xin Xin You
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Genomics, Marine and Fisheries Institute, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Shi Xi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
| | - Wan Shu Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
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15
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Marchese NA, Ríos MN, Guido ME. The Intrinsic Blue Light Responses of Avian Müller Glial Cells Imply Calcium Release from Internal Stores. ASN Neuro 2022; 14:17590914221076698. [PMID: 35103506 PMCID: PMC8814826 DOI: 10.1177/17590914221076698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina of vertebrates is responsible for capturing light through visual
(cones and rods) and non-visual photoreceptors (intrinsically photosensitive
retinal ganglion cells and horizontal cells) triggering a number of essential
activities associated to image- and non-image forming functions (photic
entrainment of daily rhythms, pupillary light reflexes, pineal melatonin
inhibition, among others). Although the retina contains diverse types of
neuronal based-photoreceptors cells, originally classified as ciliary- or
rhabdomeric-like types, in recent years, it has been shown that the major glial
cell type of the retina, the Müller glial cells (MC), express blue photopigments
as Opn3 (encephalopsin) and Opn5 (neuropsin) and display light responses
associated to intracellular Ca2 + mobilization. These findings strongly propose
MC as novel retinal photodetectors (Rios et al., 2019). Herein, we further
investigated the intrinsic light responses of primary cultures of MC from
embryonic chicken retinas specially focused on Ca2 + mobilization by
fluorescence imaging and the identity of the internal Ca2 + stores responsible
for blue light responses. Results clearly demonstrated that light responses were
specific to blue light of long time exposure, and that the main Ca2 + reservoir
to trigger downstream responses came from intracellular stores localized in the
endoplasmic reticulum These observations bring more complexity to the intrinsic
photosensitivity of retinal cells, particularly with regard to the detection of
light in the blue range of visible spectra, and add novel functions to glial
cells cooperating with other photoreceptors to detect and integrate ambient
light in the retinal circuit and participate in cell to cell communication.
Summary statement:
Non-neuronal cells in the vertebrate retina, Muller glial cells, express
non-canonical photopigments and sense blue light causing calcium release from
intracellular stores strongly suggesting a novel intrinsic photosensitivity and
new regulatory events mediating light-driven processes with yet unknown
physiological implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia A Marchese
- 373607CIQUIBIC-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 28217Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.,Departamento de Química Biológica "Ranwel Caputto", Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Maximiliano N Ríos
- 373607CIQUIBIC-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 28217Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.,Departamento de Química Biológica "Ranwel Caputto", Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Mario E Guido
- 373607CIQUIBIC-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 28217Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.,Departamento de Química Biológica "Ranwel Caputto", Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
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16
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Endogenous functioning and light response of the retinal clock in vertebrates. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2022; 273:49-69. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2022.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Geng AL, Zhang J, Zhang Y, Wang HH, Chu Q, Yan ZX, Liu HG. Effects of lighting regimes on performance, pineal melanopsin expression and melatonin content in native laying hens aged from 19 to 34 weeks. Poult Sci 2021; 101:101567. [PMID: 34823188 PMCID: PMC8626689 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanopsin, a key light sensitive pigment, plays an important role in the regulation of bio-rhythm and photo-adaptation in poultry. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different lighting regimes on performance, pineal melanopsin expression and melatonin content in a native chicken, Beijing You Chicken (BYC) aged from 19 to 34 wk. A total of 900 nineteen-wk-old BYC female chicken having no significant body weight differences were randomly allocated to 3 groups with 3 replicates each, 100 birds each replicate, reared in individually lit floor pens with separate outdoor areas. Three different lighting regimes were used, including continuous 16 h (16L:8D, 6:00–22:00) for group 1, intermittent 16 h (12L:2D:4L:6D, 6:00–18:00, 20:00–24:00) for group 2, and continuous 12 h (12L:12D, 6:00–18:00) for group 3, respectively. The performance was measured for 19 to 34 wk. Serum melatonin (Mel), prolactin (Prl), luteinizing hormone (LH), and 17-beta estradiol (E2) contents were measured at 24 wk, 29 wk, and 34 wk of age, the relative expression of pineal melanopsin gene (Opn4 mRNA) was measured on 1 d at 9:00, 13:00, 17:00, 21:00, 1:00, and 5:00 at 29 wk of age, and at the end of 29 wk and 34 wk. The results showed that the egg mass, egg-laying rate, and feed egg ratio of BYC were not affected by lighting regimes for 19 to 34 wk (P > 0.05), except for the average feed intake (AFI) (P < 0.05). The AFI in the 12L:12D group was significantly higher than that in the 16L:8D group (P < 0.05), but had no difference with that in the 12L:2D:4L:6D group. The pineal Opn4 mRNA level was significantly upregulated in the 12L:2D:4L:6D group and downregulated in the 12L:12D group when compared with 16L:8D group at 29 and 34 wks of age (P < 0.05). The Mel content in the 16L:8D group was lower than that in the other 2 groups at 29 wk of age (P < 0.05), there was no difference in Mel content between 16L:8D group and 12L:2D:4L:6D group at 34 wk of age (P > 0.05). The present study suggested that the pineal melanopsin expression of the birds in the intermittent 16 h lighting group was higher than in the continuous 16 h and 12 h lighting group, and a significant negative correlation was found between melanopsin expression and Mel content at 34 wk of age, which may interact to promote the photo-adaptation of the native chicken and affect the future laying performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Geng
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, P. R. China.
| | - J Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, P. R. China
| | - Y Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, P. R. China
| | - H H Wang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, P. R. China
| | - Q Chu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, P. R. China
| | - Z X Yan
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, P. R. China
| | - H G Liu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, P. R. China
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Genetic Diversity and Identification of Homozygosity-Rich Genomic Regions in Seven Italian Heritage Turkey ( Meleagris gallopavo) Breeds. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12091342. [PMID: 34573324 PMCID: PMC8470100 DOI: 10.3390/genes12091342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Italian autochthonous turkey breeds are an important reservoir of genetic biodiversity that should be maintained with an in vivo approach. The aim of this study, part of the TuBAvI national project on biodiversity, was to use run of homozygosity (ROH), together with others statistical approaches (e.g., Wright's F-statistics, principal component analysis, ADMIXTURE analysis), to investigate the genomic diversity in several heritage turkey breeds. We performed a genome-wide characterization of ROH-rich regions in seven autochthonous turkey breeds, i.e., Brianzolo (Brzl), Bronzato Comune Italiano (BrCI), Bronzato dei Colli Euganei (CoEu), Parma e Piacenza (PrPc), Nero d'Italia (NeIt), Ermellinato di Rovigo (ErRo) and Romagnolo (Roma). ROHs were detected based on a 650K SNP genotyping. ROH_islands were identified as homozygous ROH regions shared by at least 75% of birds (within breed). Annotation of genes was performed with DAVID. The admixture analyses revealed that six breeds are unique populations while the Roma breed consists in an admixture of founder populations. Effective population size estimated on genomic data shows a numeric contraction. ROH_islands harbour genes that may be interesting for target selection in commercial populations also. Among them the PTGS2 and PLA2G4A genes on chr10 were related to reproduction efficiency. This is the first study mapping genetic variation in autochthonous turkey populations. Breeds were genetically different among them, with the Roma breed proving to be a mixture of the other breeds. The ROH_islands identified harboured genes peculiar to the selection that occurred in heritage breeds. Finally, this study releases previously undisclosed information on existing genetic variation in the turkey species.
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19
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Sur S, Sharma A, Malik I, Bhardwaj SK, Kumar V. Daytime light spectrum affects photoperiodic induction of vernal response in obligate spring migrants. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2021; 259:111017. [PMID: 34126231 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.111017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
It is not well understood how the spectral composition (wavelength) of daylight that varies considerably during the day and seasons affects photoperiodic responses in a seasonal species. Here, we investigated the molecular underpinnings of wavelength-dependent photoperiodic induction in migratory redheaded buntings transferred to 13 h long days in neutral (white), 460 nm (blue), 500 nm (green) or 620 nm (red) wavelength that were compared with one another, and to short day controls for indices of the migratory (body fattening and weight gain, and Zugunruhe) and reproductive (testicular maturation) responses. Buntings showed wavelength-dependent photoperiodic response, with delayed Zugunruhe and slower testis maturation under 620 nm red light. Post-mortem comparison of gene expressions further revealed wavelength-dependence of the photoperiodic molecular response. Whereas there were higher retinal expressions of opn2 (rhodopsin) and opn5 (neuropsin) genes in red daylight, and of rhodopsin-like opsin (rh2) gene in green daylight, the hypothalamic opn2 mRNA levels were higher in blue daylight. Similarly, we found in birds under blue daylight an increased hypothalamic expression of genes involved in the photoperiodic induction (thyroid stimulating hormone subunit beta, tshb; eye absent 3, eya3; deiodinase type 2, dio2) and associated neural responses such as the calcium signaling (ATPase sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ transporting 2, atp2a2), dopamine biosynthesis (tyrosine hydroxylase, th) and neurogenesis (brain-derived neurotrophic factor, bdnf). These results demonstrate transcriptional changes in parallel to responses associated with migration and reproduction in buntings, and suggest a role of daylight spectrum in photoperiodic induction of the vernal response in obligate spring avian migrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayantan Sur
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Aakansha Sharma
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Indu Malik
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | | | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India.
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Yamagata M, Yan W, Sanes JR. A cell atlas of the chick retina based on single-cell transcriptomics. eLife 2021; 10:e63907. [PMID: 33393903 PMCID: PMC7837701 DOI: 10.7554/elife.63907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal structure and function have been studied in many vertebrate orders, but molecular characterization has been largely confined to mammals. We used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to generate a cell atlas of the chick retina. We identified 136 cell types plus 14 positional or developmental intermediates distributed among the six classes conserved across vertebrates - photoreceptor, horizontal, bipolar, amacrine, retinal ganglion, and glial cells. To assess morphology of molecularly defined types, we adapted a method for CRISPR-based integration of reporters into selectively expressed genes. For Müller glia, we found that transcriptionally distinct cells were regionally localized along the anterior-posterior, dorsal-ventral, and central-peripheral retinal axes. We also identified immature photoreceptor, horizontal cell, and oligodendrocyte types that persist into late embryonic stages. Finally, we analyzed relationships among chick, mouse, and primate retinal cell classes and types. Our results provide a foundation for anatomical, physiological, evolutionary, and developmental studies of the avian visual system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahito Yamagata
- Center for Brain Science and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
| | - Wenjun Yan
- Center for Brain Science and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
| | - Joshua R Sanes
- Center for Brain Science and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
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21
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Non-visual Opsins and Novel Photo-Detectors in the Vertebrate Inner Retina Mediate Light Responses Within the Blue Spectrum Region. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2020; 42:59-83. [PMID: 33231827 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00997-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, a number of novel non-visual opsin photopigments belonging to the family of G protein- coupled receptors, likely involved in a number of non-image-forming processes, have been identified and characterized in cells of the inner retina of vertebrates. It is now known that the vertebrate retina is composed of visual photoreceptor cones and rods responsible for diurnal/color and nocturnal/black and white vision, and cells like the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) and photosensitive horizontal cells in the inner retina, both detecting blue light and expressing the photopigment melanopsin (Opn4). Remarkably, these non-visual photopigments can continue to operate even in the absence of vision under retinal degeneration. Moreover, inner retinal neurons and Müller glial cells have been shown to express other photopigments such as the photoisomerase retinal G protein-coupled receptor (RGR), encephalopsin (Opn3), and neuropsin (Opn5), all able to detect blue/violet light and implicated in chromophore recycling, retinal clock synchronization, neuron-to-glia communication, and other activities. The discovery of these new photopigments in the inner retina of vertebrates is strong evidence of novel light-regulated activities. This review focuses on the features, localization, photocascade, and putative functions of these novel non-visual opsins in an attempt to shed light on their role in the inner retina of vertebrates and in the physiology of the whole organism.
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Hanlon C, Ramachandran R, Zuidhof MJ, Bédécarrats GY. Should I Lay or Should I Grow: Photoperiodic Versus Metabolic Cues in Chickens. Front Physiol 2020; 11:707. [PMID: 32670092 PMCID: PMC7332832 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
While photoperiod has been generally accepted as the primary if not the exclusive cue to stimulate reproduction in photoperiodic breeders such as the laying hen, current knowledge suggests that metabolism, and/or body composition can also play an influential role to control the hypothalamic-pituitary gonadal (HPG)-axis. This review thus intends to first describe how photoperiodic and metabolic cues can impact the HPG axis, then explore and propose potential common pathways and mechanisms through which both cues could be integrated. Photostimulation refers to a perceived increase in day-length resulting in the stimulation of the HPG. While photoreceptors are present in the retina of the eye and the pineal gland, it is the deep brain photoreceptors (DBPs) located in the hypothalamus that have been identified as the potential mediators of photostimulation, including melanopsin (OPN4), neuropsin (OPN5), and vertebrate-ancient opsin (VA-Opsin). Here, we present the current state of knowledge surrounding these DBPs, along with their individual and relative importance and, their possible downstream mechanisms of action to initiate the activation of the HPG axis. On the metabolic side, specific attention is placed on the hypothalamic integration of appetite control with the stimulatory (Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone; GnRH) and inhibitory (Gonadotropin Inhibitory Hormone; GnIH) neuropeptides involved in the control of the HPG axis. Specifically, the impact of orexigenic peptides agouti-related peptide (AgRP), and neuropeptide Y (NPY), as well as the anorexigenic peptides pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC), and cocaine-and amphetamine regulated transcript (CART) is reviewed. Furthermore, beyond hypothalamic control, several metabolic factors involved in the control of body weight and composition are also presented as possible modulators of reproduction at all three levels of the HPG axis. These include peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) for its impact in liver metabolism during the switch from growth to reproduction, adiponectin as a potential modulator of ovarian development and follicular maturation, as well as growth hormone (GH), and leptin (LEP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlene Hanlon
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Ramesh Ramachandran
- Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Department of Animal Science, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
| | - Martin J. Zuidhof
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Stone RA, Wei W, Sarfare S, McGeehan B, Engelhart KC, Khurana TS, Maguire MG, Iuvone PM, Nickla DL. Visual Image Quality Impacts Circadian Rhythm-Related Gene Expression in Retina and in Choroid: A Potential Mechanism for Ametropias. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:13. [PMID: 32396635 PMCID: PMC7405616 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.5.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Stimulated by evidence implicating diurnal/circadian rhythms and light in refractive development, we studied the expression over 24 hours of selected clock and circadian rhythm-related genes in retina/retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choroid of experimental ametropias in chicks. Methods Newly hatched chicks, entrained to a 12-hour light/dark cycle for 12 to 14 days, either experienced nonrestricted vision OU (i.e., in both eyes) or received an image-blurring diffuser or a minus 10-diopter (D) or a plus 10-D defocusing lens over one eye. Starting 1 day later and at 4-hour intervals for 24 hours, the retina/RPE and choroid were separately dissected. Without pooling, total RNA was extracted, converted to cDNA, and assayed by quantitative PCR for the expression of the following genes: Opn4m, Clock, Npas2, Per3, Cry1, Arntl, and Mtnr1a. Results The expression of each gene in retina/RPE and in choroid of eyes with nonrestricted vision OU varied over 24 hours, with equal levels OU for most genes and times. Altered visual input influenced gene expression in complex patterns that varied by gene, visual input, time, and eye, affecting experimental eyes with altered vision and also contralateral eyes with nonrestricted vision. Discussion Altering visual input in ways known to induce ametropias alters the retinal/RPE and choroidal expression of circadian rhythm-related genes, further linking circadian biology with eye growth regulation. While further investigations are needed, studying circadian processes may help understand refractive mechanisms and the increasing myopia prevalence in contemporary societies where lighting patterns can desynchronize endogenous rhythms from the natural environmental light/dark cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A. Stone
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Wenjie Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Shanta Sarfare
- Department of Bioscience, New England College of Optometry, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Brendan McGeehan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - K. Cameron Engelhart
- Department of Bioscience, New England College of Optometry, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Tejvir S. Khurana
- Department of Physiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Maureen G. Maguire
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - P. Michael Iuvone
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | - Debora L. Nickla
- Department of Bioscience, New England College of Optometry, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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Jiang N, Cao J, Wang Z, Dong Y, Chen Y. Effect of monochromatic light on the temporal expression of N-acetyltransferase in chick pineal gland. Chronobiol Int 2020; 37:1140-1150. [PMID: 32308045 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2020.1754846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The avian pineal gland is an independent molecular oscillator that receives external light information that regulates the synthesis and secretion of melatonin. Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase plays an important role in the pineal gland by controlling the rhythmic production of melatonin. Previous study showed that monochromatic light influences the secretion of melatonin, which is regulated by the molecular circadian clock genes in chick pineal gland. This study was designed to investigate the effect of monochromatic light on the circadian rhythm of levels of cAanat, clock protein (CLOCK and BMAL1), cCreb, and opsins (cOpnp, Pinopsin; cOpn4-1, Melanopsin-1; cOpn4-2, Melanopsin-2) in chick pineal gland. A total of 240 post-hatching day (P) 0 broiler chickens were reared under white (WL), red (RL), green (GL), and blue light (BL) with light (L)-dark (D) cycle of 12L:12D for 14 d. The results show significant circadian rhythms in the expression of cAanat, CLOCK, BMAL1, cCreb, cOpnp, cOpn4-1, and cOpn4-2, but not for cOpnp under RL. Compared with WL, GL increased the level of cAanat mRNA, while RL decreased it. Meanwhile, CLOCK and BMAL1 proteins were expressed at high levels in GL. Furthermore, the peak of the 24 h pattern of cOpnp mRNA in GL was earlier than that of in WL, RL, and BL. These results demonstrated that monochromatic light affects the daily expression of cAanat in the chick pineal gland via the biological clock. GL activates the transcription of cAanat, while RL suppresses the transcription of cAanat. Meanwhile, GL appears to induce the peak of cOpnp mRNA in advance to affect the transmission of light. Thus, monochromatic light regulates cAanat in the chick pineal gland by affecting the levels of clock regulators via entraining the expression of pineal gland opsins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Jiang
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University , Haidian, Beijing, China.,Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University , Haidian, Beijing, China
| | - Zixu Wang
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University , Haidian, Beijing, China
| | - Yulan Dong
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University , Haidian, Beijing, China
| | - Yaoxing Chen
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University , Haidian, Beijing, China
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Bian J, Wang Z, Dong Y, Cao J, Chen Y. Effect of monochromatic light on the circadian clock of cultured chick retinal tissue. Exp Eye Res 2020; 194:108008. [PMID: 32198015 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The central biological clock system of bird is formed by hypothalamus suprachiasmatic nucleus, pineal gland and retina thereby interacting with each other in a neuroendocrine loop. Previous results have confirmed that monochromatic light can influence the clock genes in the pineal gland, hypothalamus and retina of chicks in vivo. The present work was conducted to study whether the cultured retinal tissue of chick could maintain the circadian oscillation and whether the monochromatic light affect the expression level of cultured retinal circadian clock in vitro. Retinal tissues of 0-day-old chicks were cultured in vitro under 4 light treatments (white, red, green and blue lights) with light dark cycle 12:12 and constant dark. The tissues and culture medium were collected every each 4 h. Melanopsin, clock genes, cAanat, the positive-regulating clock proteins and melatonin were measured. The results showed that cOpn4-1, cOpn4-2, cBmal1, cCry1, cPer2, cPer3, cAanat and melatonin concentrations possessed a significant circadian rhythm in cultured chick retina tissues under different monochromatic lights; while, in constant dark, cBmal1, cCry1, cPer2, cPer3, cAanat and melatonin concentration possessed a significant circadian rhythm. Green light promoted the circadian expression level of cOpn4-1, cOpn4-2, cBmal1, cAanat and BMAL1 proteins and the circadian rhythm of melatonin secretion of retina by increasing the mesors and amplitudes. In addition, green light significantly increased the average expression levels of cClock, cBmal2 and CLOCK proteins which were expressed arrhythmically. Results suggested that the retina is a central oscillator with autonomous circadian rhythm. In isolated retina tissues, green light activated the expression of melanopsin and promoted the expression of positive-regulating clock genes, thereby up-regulating the expression of cAanat and resulting the increasing of the synthesis and secretion of melatonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Bian
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animal, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, 100193, China; Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Zixu Wang
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animal, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yulan Dong
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animal, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animal, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Yaoxing Chen
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animal, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, 100193, China.
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Margiotta JF, Howard MJ. Cryptochromes Mediate Intrinsic Photomechanical Transduction in Avian Iris and Somatic Striated Muscle. Front Physiol 2020; 11:128. [PMID: 32153427 PMCID: PMC7047837 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Irises isolated from the eyes of diverse species constrict when exposed to light. Depending on species this intrinsic photomechanical transduction response (PMTR) requires either melanopsin or cryptochrome (CRY) photopigment proteins, generated by their respective association with retinoid or flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) chromophores. Although developmentally relevant circadian rhythms are also synchronized and reset by these same proteins, the cell type, mechanism, and specificity of photomechanical transduction (PMT) and its relationship to circadian processes remain poorly understood. Here we show that PMTRs consistent with CRY activation by 430 nm blue light occur in developing chicken iris striated muscle, identify relevant mechanisms, and demonstrate that similar PMTRs occur in striated iris and pectoral muscle fibers, prevented in both cases by knocking down CRY gene transcript levels. Supporting CRY activation, iris PMTRs were reduced by inhibiting flavin reductase, but unaffected by melanopsin antagonism. The largest iris PMTRs paralleled the developmental predominance of striated over smooth muscle fibers, and shared their requirement for extracellular Ca2+ influx and release of intracellular Ca2+. Photo-stimulation of identified striated myotubes maintained in dissociated culture revealed the cellular and molecular bases of PMT. Myotubes in iris cell cultures responded to 435 nm light with increased intracellular Ca2+ and contractions, mimicking iris PMTRs and their spectral sensitivity. Interestingly PMTRs featuring contractions and requiring extracellular Ca2+ influx and release of intracellular Ca2+ were also displayed by striated myotubes derived from pectoral muscle. Consistent with these findings, cytosolic CRY1 and CRY2 proteins were detected in both iris and pectoral myotubes, and knocking down myotube CRY1/CRY2 gene transcript levels specifically blocked PMTRs in both cases. Thus CRY-mediated PMT is not unique to iris, but instead reflects a more general feature of developing striated muscle fibers. Because CRYs are core timing components of circadian clocks and CRY2 is critical for circadian regulation of myogenic differentiation CRY-mediated PMT may interact with cell autonomous clocks to influence the progression of striated muscle development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph F Margiotta
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Marthe J Howard
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH, United States
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Ko GYP. Circadian regulation in the retina: From molecules to network. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 51:194-216. [PMID: 30270466 PMCID: PMC6441387 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian retina is the most unique tissue among those that display robust circadian/diurnal oscillations. The retina is not only a light sensing tissue that relays light information to the brain, it has its own circadian "system" independent from any influence from other circadian oscillators. While all retinal cells and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) possess circadian oscillators, these oscillators integrate by means of neural synapses, electrical coupling (gap junctions), and released neurochemicals (such as dopamine, melatonin, adenosine, and ATP), so the whole retina functions as an integrated circadian system. Dysregulation of retinal clocks not only causes retinal or ocular diseases, it also impacts the circadian rhythm of the whole body, as the light information transmitted from the retina entrains the brain clock that governs the body circadian rhythms. In this review, how circadian oscillations in various retinal cells are integrated, and how retinal diseases affect daily rhythms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gladys Y-P Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
- Texas A&M Institute for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
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Koskela S, Turunen T, Ala-Laurila P. Mice Reach Higher Visual Sensitivity at Night by Using a More Efficient Behavioral Strategy. Curr Biol 2019; 30:42-53.e4. [PMID: 31866370 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2019.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 09/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Circadian clocks predictively adjust the physiology of organisms to the day/night cycle. The retina has its own clock, and many diurnal changes in its physiology have been reported. However, their implications for retinal functions and visually guided behavior are largely unresolved. Here, we study the impact of diurnal rhythm on the sensitivity limit of mouse vision. A simple photon detection task allowed us to link well-defined retinal output signals directly to visually guided behavior. We show that visually guided behavior at its sensitivity limit is strongly under diurnal control, reaching the highest sensitivity and stability at night. The diurnal differences in visual sensitivity did not arise in the retina, as assessed by spike recordings from the most sensitive retinal ganglion cell types: ON sustained, OFF sustained, and OFF transient alpha ganglion cells. Instead, we found that mice, as nocturnal animals, use a more efficient search strategy for visual cues at night. Intriguingly, they can switch to the more efficient night strategy even at their subjective day after first having performed the task at night. Our results exemplify that the shape of visual psychometric functions depends robustly on the diurnal state of the animal, its search strategy, and even its diurnal history of performing the task. The results highlight the impact of the day/night cycle on high-level sensory processing, demonstrating a direct diurnal impact on the behavioral strategy of the animal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanna Koskela
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tuomas Turunen
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University School of Science, 02150 Espoo, Finland
| | - Petri Ala-Laurila
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University School of Science, 02150 Espoo, Finland.
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Do MTH. Melanopsin and the Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells: Biophysics to Behavior. Neuron 2019; 104:205-226. [PMID: 31647894 PMCID: PMC6944442 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian visual system encodes information over a remarkable breadth of spatiotemporal scales and light intensities. This performance originates with its complement of photoreceptors: the classic rods and cones, as well as the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). IpRGCs capture light with a G-protein-coupled receptor called melanopsin, depolarize like photoreceptors of invertebrates such as Drosophila, discharge electrical spikes, and innervate dozens of brain areas to influence physiology, behavior, perception, and mood. Several visual responses rely on melanopsin to be sustained and maximal. Some require ipRGCs to occur at all. IpRGCs fulfill their roles using mechanisms that include an unusual conformation of the melanopsin protein, an extraordinarily slow phototransduction cascade, divisions of labor even among cells of a morphological type, and unorthodox configurations of circuitry. The study of ipRGCs has yielded insight into general topics that include photoreceptor evolution, cellular diversity, and the steps from biophysical mechanisms to behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Tri H Do
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center and Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Center for Life Science 12061, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Nakane Y, Shinomiya A, Ota W, Ikegami K, Shimmura T, Higashi SI, Kamei Y, Yoshimura T. Action spectrum for photoperiodic control of thyroid-stimulating hormone in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). PLoS One 2019; 14:e0222106. [PMID: 31509560 PMCID: PMC6738599 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0222106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
At higher latitudes, vertebrates exhibit a seasonal cycle of reproduction in response to changes in day-length, referred to as photoperiodism. Extended day-length induces thyroid-stimulating hormone in the pars tuberalis of the pituitary gland. This hormone triggers the local activation of thyroid hormone in the mediobasal hypothalamus and eventually induces gonadal development. In avian species, light information associated with day-length is detected through photoreceptors located in deep-brain regions. Within these regions, the expressions of multiple photoreceptive molecules, opsins, have been observed. However, even though the Japanese quail is an excellent model for photoperiodism because of its robust and significant seasonal responses in reproduction, a comprehensive understanding of photoreceptors in the quail brain remains undeveloped. In this study, we initially analyzed an action spectrum using photoperiodically induced expression of the beta subunit genes of thyroid-stimulating hormone in quail. Among seven wavelengths examined, we detected maximum sensitivity of the action spectrum at 500 nm. The low value for goodness of fit in the alignment with a template of retinal1-based photopigment, assuming a spectrum associated with a single opsin, proposed the possible involvement of multiple opsins rather than a single opsin. Analysis of gene expression in the septal region and hypothalamus, regions hypothesized to be photosensitive in quail, revealed mRNA expression of a mammal-like melanopsin in the infundibular nucleus within the mediobasal hypothalamus. However, no significant diurnal changes were observed for genes in the infundibular nucleus. Xenopus-like melanopsin, a further isoform of melanopsin in birds, was detected in neither the septal region nor the infundibular nucleus. These results suggest that the mammal-like melanopsin expressed in the infundibular nucleus within the mediobasal hypothalamus could be candidate deep-brain photoreceptive molecule in Japanese quail. Investigation of the functional involvement of mammal-like melanopsin-expressing cells in photoperiodism will be required for further conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Nakane
- Institute of Transformative Bio-molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Laboratory of Animal Integrative Physiology, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- * E-mail: , (YN); , (TY)
| | - Ai Shinomiya
- Division of Seasonal Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Wataru Ota
- Institute of Transformative Bio-molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Laboratory of Animal Integrative Physiology, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Keisuke Ikegami
- Laboratory of Animal Integrative Physiology, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Shimmura
- Division of Seasonal Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
- Department of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu Japan
| | - Sho-Ichi Higashi
- Spectrography and Bioimaging Facility, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Kamei
- Spectrography and Bioimaging Facility, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Takashi Yoshimura
- Institute of Transformative Bio-molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Laboratory of Animal Integrative Physiology, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Division of Seasonal Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
- Avian Bioscience Research Center, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- * E-mail: , (YN); , (TY)
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Ziółkowska N, Ziółkowski H, Magda J, Bućko M, Kaczorek-Łukowska E, Lewczuk B. Diurnal and circadian variations in intraocular pressure in goats exposed to different lighting conditions. Chronobiol Int 2019; 36:1638-1645. [PMID: 31495221 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2019.1660360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The effect of constant light and constant darkness on intraocular pressure (IOP) in goats has not been investigated. We hypothesized that IOP variations would differ between goats kept under a cycle of 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness (LD), constant darkness (DD), and constant light (LL). To test this hypothesis, goats were exposed to these conditions for five days (LD, 30 goats; DD, 10 goats; LL, 10 goats). IOP was measured by applanation tonometry at 9 a.m. (beginning of photophase in LD) and 9 p.m. (beginning of scotophase in LD) on the fourth and fifth days of exposure. We found that changes in mean IOP from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. differed significantly between groups (χ2(2) = 23.04, p < .0001). Most goats in LD showed a regular pattern of higher IOP in the morning and lower IOP in the evening, whereas those in DD and LL did not follow this pattern. In LD conditions, mean IOP was 2.4 mm Hg lower at 9 p.m. than at 9 a.m. (95% confidence interval for the difference (CI): -2.8 to -1.9 mm Hg, p < .0001). In DD conditions, mean IOP did not differ between 9 p.m. and 9 a.m. (CI: -0.9 to 0.8 mm Hg, p = .90). In LL conditions, it was 0.6 mm Hg lower at 9 p.m. (CI: -1.5 to 0.2 mm Hg, p = .12). Our results indicate that IOP in goats kept in LD is higher in the morning than in the evening, and that IOP variations are reduced in goats kept in DD and LL. These results suggest that exposure to alternating periods of light and darkness is important for maintaining rhythmic variations in IOP in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Ziółkowska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Hubert Ziółkowski
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Jagoda Magda
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Monika Bućko
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Edyta Kaczorek-Łukowska
- Department of Microbiology and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Bogdan Lewczuk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
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Hauzman E, Kalava V, Bonci DMO, Ventura DF. Characterization of the melanopsin gene (Opn4x) of diurnal and nocturnal snakes. BMC Evol Biol 2019; 19:174. [PMID: 31462236 PMCID: PMC6714106 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-019-1500-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A number of non-visual responses to light in vertebrates, such as circadian rhythm control and pupillary light reflex, are mediated by melanopsins, G-protein coupled membrane receptors, conjugated to a retinal chromophore. In non-mammalian vertebrates, melanopsin expression is variable within the retina and extra-ocular tissues. Two paralog melanopsin genes were classified in vertebrates, Opn4x and Opn4m. Snakes are highly diversified vertebrates with a wide range of daily activity patterns, which raises questions about differences in structure, function and expression pattern of their melanopsin genes. In this study, we analyzed the melanopsin genes expressed in the retinas of 18 snake species from three families (Viperidae, Elapidae, and Colubridae), and also investigated extra-retinal tissue expression. RESULTS Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the amplified gene belongs to the Opn4x group, and no expression of the Opn4m was found. The same paralog is expressed in the iris, but no extra-ocular expression was detected. Molecular evolutionary analysis indicated that melanopsins are evolving primarily under strong purifying selection, although lower evolutionary constraint was detected in snake lineages (ω = 0.2), compared to non-snake Opn4x and Opn4m (ω = 0.1). Statistical analysis of selective constraint suggests that snake phylogenetic relationships have driven stronger effects on melanopsin evolution, than the species activity pattern. In situ hybridization revealed the presence of melanopsin within cells in the outer and inner nuclear layers, in the ganglion cell layer, and intense labeling in the optic nerve. CONCLUSIONS The loss of the Opn4m gene and extra-ocular photosensitive tissues in snakes may be associated with a prolonged nocturnal/mesopic bottleneck in the early history of snake evolution. The presence of melanopsin-containing cells in all retinal nuclear layers indicates a globally photosensitive retina, and the expression in classic photoreceptor cells suggest a regionalized co-expression of melanopsin and visual opsins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einat Hauzman
- Departamento de Psicologia Experimental, Instituto de Psicologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Professor Mello Moraes, 1721, Bloco A - Sala D9. Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-030, Brazil. .,Instituto Israelita de Ensino e Pesquisa Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | | | - Daniela Maria Oliveira Bonci
- Departamento de Psicologia Experimental, Instituto de Psicologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Professor Mello Moraes, 1721, Bloco A - Sala D9. Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-030, Brazil.,Instituto Israelita de Ensino e Pesquisa Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dora Fix Ventura
- Departamento de Psicologia Experimental, Instituto de Psicologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Professor Mello Moraes, 1721, Bloco A - Sala D9. Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-030, Brazil.,Instituto Israelita de Ensino e Pesquisa Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
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Abstract
Organisms use changes in photoperiod for seasonal reproduction to maximize the survival of their offspring. Birds have sophisticated seasonal mechanisms and are therefore excellent models for studying these phenomena. Birds perceive light via deep-brain photoreceptors and long day–induced thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH, thyrotropin) in the pars tuberalis of the pituitary gland (PT), which cause local thyroid hormone activation within the mediobasal hypothalamus. The local bioactive thyroid hormone controls seasonal gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion and subsequent gonadotropin secretion. In mammals, the eyes are believed to be the only photoreceptor organ, and nocturnal melatonin secretion triggers an endocrine signal that communicates information about the photoperiod to the PT to regulate TSH. In contrast, in Salmonidae fish the input pathway to the neuroendocrine output pathway appears to be localized in the saccus vasculosus. Thus, comparative analysis is an effective way to uncover the universality and diversity of fundamental traits in various organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Nakane
- Institute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
- Laboratory of Animal Integrative Physiology, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Takashi Yoshimura
- Institute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
- Laboratory of Animal Integrative Physiology, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
- Avian Bioscience Research Center, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
- Division of Seasonal Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8585, Japan
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Effect of pinealectomy on the circadian clock of the chick retina under different monochromatic lights. Chronobiol Int 2019; 36:548-563. [PMID: 30663441 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2019.1566740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The avian circadian rhythm pacemaker is composed of the retina, pineal gland and suprachiasmatic nucleus. As an intact input-pacemaker-output system, each of these structures is linked within a neuroendocrine loop to influence downstream processes and peripheral oscillations. While our previous study found that monochromatic light affected the circadian rhythms of clock genes in the chick retina, the effect of the pineal gland on the response of the retinal circadian clock under monochromatic light still remains unclear. In this study, a total of 144 chicks, including sham-operated and pinealectomized groups, were exposed to white, red, green or blue light. After 2 weeks of light illumination, the circadian expression of six core clock genes (cClock, cBmal1, cCry1, cCry2, cPer2 and cPer3), melanopsin (cOpn4-1, cOpn4-2), Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (cAanat) and melatonin was examined in the retina. The cBmal1, cCry1, cPer2, cPer3, cOpn4-1, cOpn4-2 and cAanat genes as well as melatonin had circadian rhythmic expression in both the sham-operated and pinealectomized groups under different monochromatic lights, while cClock and cCry2 had arrhythmic 24 h profiles in all of the light-treated groups. After pinealectomy, the rhythmicity of the clock genes, melanopsins, cAanat and melatonin in the chick retina did not change, especially the mesors, amplitudes and phases of cBmal1, cOpn4-1, cOpn4-2, cAanat and melatonin. Compared to the white light group, however, green light increased the mRNA expression of the positive-regulating clock genes cBmal1, cAanat, cOpn4-1 and cOpn4-2 as well as the melatonin content in pinealectomized chicks, whereas red light decreased their expression. These results suggest that the chick retina is a relatively independent circadian oscillator from the pineal gland, whose circadian rhythmicity (including photoreception, molecular clock and melatonin output) is not altered after pinealectomization. Moreover, green light increases ocular cAanat expression and melatonin synthesis by accelerating the expression of melanopsin and positive-regulating clock genes cBmal1 and cClock.
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GUH YJ, TAMAI TK, YOSHIMURA T. The underlying mechanisms of vertebrate seasonal reproduction. PROCEEDINGS OF THE JAPAN ACADEMY. SERIES B, PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2019; 95:343-357. [PMID: 31406058 PMCID: PMC6766453 DOI: 10.2183/pjab.95.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Animals make use of changes in photoperiod to adapt their physiology to the forthcoming breeding season. Comparative studies have contributed to our understanding of the mechanisms of seasonal reproduction in vertebrates. Birds are excellent models for studying these phenomena because of their rapid and dramatic responses to changes in photoperiod. Deep brain photoreceptors in birds perceive and transmit light information to the pars tuberalis (PT) in the pituitary gland, where the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is produced. This PT-TSH locally increases the level of the bioactive thyroid hormone T3 via the induction of type 2 deiodinase production in the mediobasal hypothalamus, and an increased T3 level, in turn, controls seasonal gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion. In mammals, the eyes are the only photoreceptive structure, and nocturnal melatonin secretion encodes day-length information and regulates the PT-TSH signaling cascade. In Salmonidae, the saccus vasculosus plays a pivotal role as a photoperiodic sensor. Together, these studies have uncovered the universality and diversity of fundamental traits in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Jey GUH
- Institute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
- Division of Seasonal Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takako K TAMAI
- Institute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takashi YOSHIMURA
- Institute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
- Division of Seasonal Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
- Laboratory of Integrative Physiology, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
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Pérez JH, Tolla E, Dunn IC, Meddle SL, Stevenson TJ. A Comparative Perspective on Extra-retinal Photoreception. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2019; 30:39-53. [PMID: 30522810 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2018.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Ubiquitous in non-mammalian vertebrates, extra-retinal photoreceptors (ERPs) have been linked to an array of physiological, metabolic, behavioral, and morphological changes. However, the mechanisms and functional roles of ERPs remain one of the enduring questions of modern biology. In this review article, we use a comparative framework to identify conserved roles and distributions of ERPs, highlighting knowledge gaps. We conclude that ERP research can be divided into two largely unconnected categories: (i) identification and localization of photoreceptors and (ii) linkage of non-retinal light reception to behavioral and physiological processes, particularly endocrine systems. However, the emergence of novel gene editing and silencing techniques is enabling the unification of ERP research by allowing the bridging of this divide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan H Pérez
- Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, Scotland; The Roslin Institute, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, Scotland.
| | - Elisabetta Tolla
- Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, Scotland
| | - Ian C Dunn
- The Roslin Institute, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, Scotland
| | - Simone L Meddle
- The Roslin Institute, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, Scotland
| | - Tyler J Stevenson
- Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, Scotland
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Ma S, Wang Z, Cao J, Dong Y, Chen Y. Effect of Monochromatic Light on Circadian Rhythm of Clock Genes in Chick Pinealocytes. Photochem Photobiol 2018; 94:1263-1272. [PMID: 29896808 DOI: 10.1111/php.12963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The avian circadian system is a complex of mutually coupled pacemakers residing in pineal gland, retina and suprachiasmatic nucleus. In this study, the self-regulation mechanism of pineal circadian rhythm was investigated by culturing chick primary pinealocytes exposed to red light (RL), green light (GL), blue light (BL), white light (WL) and constant darkness (DD), respectively. All illuminations were set up with a photoperiod of 12 light: 12 dark. The 24-h expression profiles of seven core clock genes (cBmal1/2, cClock, cCry1/2 and cPer2/3), cAanat and melatonin showed significant circadian oscillation in all groups, except for the loss of cCry1 rhythm in BL. Compared to WL, GL increased the amplitudes and mesors of positive elements (cClock and cBmal1/2) and reduced those of negative elements (cCry1/2 and cPer2/3), in contrast to RL. The temporal patterns of cAanatmRNA and melatonin secretion have always been consistent with the positive genes. Besides, GL advanced the acrophases of the positive elements, cAanat and melatonin, but RL and BL showed the opposite effect. Thereby, GL could promote the secretion of melatonin by enhancing the expressions of positive clock genes and repressing the expressions of negative clock genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhui Ma
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zixu Wang
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yulan Dong
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yaoxing Chen
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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Haas R, Alenciks E, Meddle S, Fraley GS. Expression of deep brain photoreceptors in the Pekin drake: a possible role in the maintenance of testicular function. Poult Sci 2018; 96:2908-2919. [PMID: 28339754 PMCID: PMC5850723 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pex037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Several putative deep brain photoreceptors (DBPs) have been identified, such as melanopsin, opsin 5, and vertebrate ancient opsin. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of DBPs in gonadal regulation in the Pekin drake. As previously reported, we observed opsin-like immunoreactivity (-ir) in the lateral septum (LS), melanopsin-ir in the premammillary nucleus (PMM), and opsin 5-ir in the periventricular organ. To determine the sensitivity of the DBPs to specific wavelengths of light, drakes were given an acute exposure to red, blue, or white light. Blue light stimulated an increase (P < 0.01) in the immediate early gene fra-2-ir co-expression in melanopsin-ir neurons in the PMM, and red light increased (P < 0.05) fra-2-ir co-expression in opsin-ir neurons, suggesting these neurons are blue- and red-receptive, respectively. To further investigate this photoperiodic response, we exposed drakes to chronic red, long-day white, short-day white, or blue light. Blue light elicited gonadal regression, as testes weight (P < 0.001) and plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) levels (P < 0.001) were lower compared to drakes housed under long-day white light. Photo-regressed drakes experienced complete gonadal recrudescence when housed under long-day red and blue light. qRT-PCR analyses showed that gonadally regressed drakes showed reduced levels (P < 0.01) of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) mRNA but not photoreceptor or GnIH mRNAs compared to gonadally functional drakes. Our data suggest DBP in the LS may be rhodosin and multiple DBPs are required to fully maintain gonadal function in Pekin drakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Haas
- Biology Department, Hope College, Holland, MI
| | - E Alenciks
- Biology Department, Hope College, Holland, MI
| | - S Meddle
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The Roslin Institute Building, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian EH25 9RG, Scotland. UK
| | - G S Fraley
- Biology Department, Hope College, Holland, MI
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Banerjee S, Shahin S, Chaturvedi CM. Age dependent variations in the deep brain photoreceptors (DBPs), GnRH-GnIH system and testicular steroidogenesis in Japanese quail, Coturnix coturnix japonica. Exp Gerontol 2018; 108:7-17. [PMID: 29580815 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2018.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2017] [Revised: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The complex physiology of aging involves a number of molecular and biochemical events, manifested as signs of senescence. Japanese quail is a very unique and advantageous model to study the signs and symptoms of senescence in the central and peripheral modules of HPG axis. In the present study, we have investigated the age dependent variations in hypothalamic deep brain photoreceptors (DBPs), central GnRH-I/II-GnIH-Mel1cR system, testicular GnRH-GnIH system, testicular steroidogenic genes and proteins, androgen receptor (AR) and serum testosterone level in quail of different age groups [3-wk (sexually immature), 6-wk (sexually mature and crossed the puberty), 16-wk (adult, sexually active and showing full breeding phase) and 144-wk (aged)]. Findings of our present study showed the differential expression of these genes/proteins in quail of different age groups. The low levels of the DBPs, GnRH-I, GnIH, Mel1cR in hypothalamus and GnRH-II in midbrain, significantly decreased testicular GnRH/GnRH-R-GnIH, steroidogenic genes/proteins and serum testosterone were observed in immature quail. The significantly increased expression of opsins in the DBPs, GnRH-I, GnIH, Mel1cR in hypothalamus and GnRH-II in midbrain influences the testicular GnRH-GnIH and stimulate the testicular steroidogenesis in mature and adult quail. In aged quail, the significantly decreased levels of hypothalamic DBPs, GnRH-I, GnIH, Mel1cR and midbrain GnRH-II modulates the testicular GnRH-GnIH and further suppresses the genes/proteins involved in steroidogenesis and results in reduced serum testosterone. Hence, it can be concluded from our findings that the testicular steroidogenesis and its neuroendocrine regulation varies with age, in Japanese quail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somanshu Banerjee
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Saba Shahin
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
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Zhao H, Jiang J, Wang G, Le C, Wingfield JC. Daily, circadian and seasonal changes of rhodopsin-like encephalic photoreceptor and its involvement in mediating photoperiodic responses of Gambel's white-crowned Sparrow, Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii. Brain Res 2018; 1687:104-116. [PMID: 29510141 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Extra-retinal, non-pineal, encephalic photoreceptors (EP) play important roles in mediating development of the reproductive system by the annual change in day length (photoperiodic gonadal response - PGR) in birds. However, the distribution of rhodopsin-like EPs and their functional daily, circadian and seasonal changes are still unclear in the avian brain. This study identifies two novel groups of rhodopsin-immunoreactive cells in the nucleus paraventricularis magnocellularis (PVN) of the hypothalamus and in the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH) in a seasonally breeding species, Gambel's white-crowned sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii). In the PVN, rhodopsin-ir cell number showed both daily and circadian changes with more labeled cells apparent in the night phase in photosensitive birds, while only circadian changes were observed involving fewer labeled cells in the night phase in photorefractory birds. Single long day photo-stimulation significantly decreased the rhodopsin-ir cell number only in photosensitive birds, coincident with a rise in plasma levels of luteinizing hormone (LH). In the MBH, rhodopsin-ir cell number did not show daily, circadian or single long day induced changes in either photoperiodic states. But, overall these rhodopsin expressing neurons significantly increased from photosensitive to photorefractory states. In the median eminence (ME), more intense rhodopsin-ir was detected in photorefractory birds compared to photosensitive birds. For expression of GnRH and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), seasonal differences were found with opposite relationships, consistent with previous studies. Our results suggest different roles of the two groups of rhodopsin-like EPs in the regulation of PGR in white-crowned sparrows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongfeng Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Junxia Jiang
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, Shaanxi, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Shaanxi Institute of Zoology, Xi'an 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chong Le
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - John C Wingfield
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Section of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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Moore AF, Cassone VM, Alloway KD, Bartell PA. The premammillary nucleus of the hypothalamus is not necessary for photoperiodic timekeeping in female turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo). PLoS One 2018; 13:e0190274. [PMID: 29462137 PMCID: PMC5819771 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In birds, seasonal reproduction is regulated by day length, with long days in the spring activating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and reproductive behaviors. The photoreceptors mediating this process remain unknown, but recently, the premammillary nucleus (PMM) of the hypothalamus has been implicated as the site of photoperiodic signaling in turkeys. We performed electrolytic lesions of the PMM to elucidate its role in the photoactivation and maintenance of egg production in female turkeys. Our results show that ablation of the PMM does not alter the normal lay cycle. No differences were found between lesioned birds and sham controls in the latency to lay following photostimulation, nor in subsequent egg production over a period of 29 weeks. No differences in the incidence of gonadal regression were found, indicating that the PMM is not essential for the termination of breeding. We conclude that any role of the PMM in photoperiodic regulation, if it exists, is redundant with other components of the system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashli F. Moore
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Vincent M. Cassone
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Kevin D. Alloway
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Paul A. Bartell
- Department of Animal Science, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Kuenzel WJ. Mapping the brain of the chicken (Gallus gallus), with emphasis on the septal-hypothalamic region. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 256:4-15. [PMID: 28923430 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
There has been remarkable progress in discoveries made in the avian brain, particularly over the past two decades. This review first highlights some of the discoveries made in the forebrain and credits the Avian Brain Nomenclature Forum, responsible for changing many of the terms found in the cerebrum and for stimulating collaborative research thereafter. The Forum facilitated communication among comparative neurobiologists by eliminating confusing and inaccurate names. The result over the past 15yearshas been a standardized use of avian forebrain terms. Nonetheless, additional changes are needed. The goal of the paper is to encourage a continuing effort to unify the nomenclature throughout the entire avian brain. To emphasize the need for consensus for a single name for each neural structure, I have selected specific structures in the septum and hypothalamus that our laboratory has been investigating, to demonstrate a lack of uniformity in names applied to conservative brain regions compared to the forebrain. The specific areas reviewed include the distributions of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons and their terminal fields in circumventricular organs, deep-brain photoreceptors, gonadotropin inhibitory neurons and a complex structure and function of the nucleus of the hippocampal commissure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne J Kuenzel
- Poultry Science Center, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA.
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Bertolesi GE, McFarlane S. Seeing the light to change colour: An evolutionary perspective on the role of melanopsin in neuroendocrine circuits regulating light-mediated skin pigmentation. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2018; 31:354-373. [PMID: 29239123 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Melanopsin photopigments, Opn4x and Opn4m, were evolutionary selected to "see the light" in systems that regulate skin colour change. In this review, we analyse the roles of melanopsins, and how critical evolutionary developments, including the requirement for thermoregulation and ultraviolet protection, the emergence of a background adaptation mechanism in land-dwelling amphibian ancestors and the loss of a photosensitive pineal gland in mammals, may have helped sculpt the mechanisms that regulate light-controlled skin pigmentation. These mechanisms include melanopsin in skin pigment cells directly inducing skin darkening for thermoregulation/ultraviolet protection; melanopsin-expressing eye cells controlling neuroendocrine circuits to mediate background adaptation in amphibians in response to surface-reflected light; and pineal gland secretion of melatonin phased to environmental illuminance to regulate circadian and seasonal variation in skin colour, a process initiated by melanopsin-expressing eye cells in mammals, and by as yet unknown non-visual opsins in the pineal gland of non-mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel E Bertolesi
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Sarah McFarlane
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Seasonal changes in various physiological events have been reported in humans, including metabolism, immune function, and mood. However, the molecular and endocrine basis of these seasonal changes remains unclear. SUMMARY Animals that breed seasonally, such as Japanese quail and the Siberian hamster, have sophisticated seasonal mechanisms, and hence they provide excellent opportunities to understand the underlying processes. Functional genomic analysis in quail uncovered the photoperiodic signal transduction pathway, which regulates avian seasonal reproduction: a long-day stimulus induces secretion of thyrotropin (TSH) from the pars tuberalis (PT) of the anterior pituitary gland. This PT-derived TSH locally activates thyroid hormone within the hypothalamus, which in turn induces gonadotropin-releasing hormone and then gonadotropin secretion, leading to gonadal growth. CONCLUSIONS Studies using TSH receptor-null mice confirmed the involvement of PT-derived TSH in mammalian seasonal reproduction. The pars distalis of the anterior pituitary gland is the major source of circulating TSH. Although the pars distalis and PT are in close proximity, tissue-specific glycosylation of circulating TSH alters its function to avoid cross talk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Nakayama
- 1 Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University , Nagoya, Japan
- 2 Division of Seasonal Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology , Okazaki, Japan
| | - Takashi Yoshimura
- 1 Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University , Nagoya, Japan
- 2 Division of Seasonal Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology , Okazaki, Japan
- 3 Institute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University , Nagoya, Japan
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45
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Melanopsin mRNA in the Iris of Red-Eared Slider Turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans). J HERPETOL 2017. [DOI: 10.1670/16-046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Abstract
Rhodopsin is the classical light sensor. Although rhodopsin has long been known to be important for image formation in the eye, the requirements for opsins in non-image formation and in extraocular light sensation were revealed much later. Most recent is the demonstration that an opsin in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, is expressed in pacemaker neurons in the brain and functions in light entrainment of circadian rhythms. However, the biggest surprise is that opsins have light-independent roles, countering more than a century of dogma that they function exclusively as light sensors. Through studies in Drosophila, light-independent roles of opsins have emerged in temperature sensation and hearing. Although these findings have been uncovered in the fruit fly, there are hints that opsins have light-independent roles in a wide array of animals, including mammals. Thus, despite the decades of focus on opsins as light detectors, they represent an important new class of polymodal sensory receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Y Leung
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106;
| | - Craig Montell
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106;
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Tamai TK, Yoshimura T. Molecular and Neuroendocrine Mechanisms of Avian Seasonal Reproduction. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1001:125-136. [PMID: 28980233 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-3975-1_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Animals living outside tropical zones experience seasonal changes in the environment and accordingly, adapt their physiology and behavior in reproduction, molting, and migration. Subtropical birds are excellent models for the study of seasonal reproduction because of their rapid and dramatic response to changes in photoperiod. For example, testicular weight typically changes by more than a 100-fold. In birds, the eyes are not necessary for seasonal reproduction, and light is instead perceived by deep brain photoreceptors. Functional genomic analysis has revealed that long day (LD)-induced thyrotropin from the pars tuberalis of the pituitary gland causes local thyroid hormone (TH) activation within the mediobasal hypothalamus. This local bioactive TH, triiodothyronine (T3), appears to regulate seasonal gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion through morphological changes in neuro-glial interactions. GnRH, in turn, stimulates gonadotropin secretion and hence, gonadal development under LD conditions. In marked contrast, low temperatures accelerate short day (SD)-induced testicular regression in winter. Interestingly, low temperatures increase circulating levels of T3 to support adaptive thermogenesis, but this induction of T3 also triggers the apoptosis of germ cells by activating genes involved in metamorphosis. This apparent contradiction in the role of TH has recently been clarified. Central activation of TH during spring results in testicular growth, while peripheral activation of TH during winter regulates adaptive thermogenesis and testicular regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Katherine Tamai
- Institute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan
| | - Takashi Yoshimura
- Institute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan.
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan.
- Avian Bioscience Research Center, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan.
- National Institute for Basic Biology, 38 Nishigonaka, Myodaiji, Okazaki, 444-8585, Japan.
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Horizontal cells expressing melanopsin x are novel photoreceptors in the avian inner retina. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:13215-13220. [PMID: 27789727 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1608901113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the vertebrate retina, three types of photoreceptors-visual photoreceptor cones and rods and the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs)-converged through evolution to detect light and regulate image- and nonimage-forming activities such as photic entrainment of circadian rhythms, pupillary light reflexes, etc. ipRGCs express the nonvisual photopigment melanopsin (OPN4), encoded by two genes: the Xenopus (Opn4x) and mammalian (Opn4m) orthologs. In the chicken retina, both OPN4 proteins are found in ipRGCs, and Opn4x is also present in retinal horizontal cells (HCs), which connect with visual photoreceptors. Here we investigate the intrinsic photosensitivity and functioning of HCs from primary cultures of embryonic retinas at day 15 by using calcium fluorescent fluo4 imaging, pharmacological inhibitory treatments, and Opn4x knockdown. Results show that HCs are avian photoreceptors with a retinal-based OPN4X photopigment conferring intrinsic photosensitivity. Light responses in HCs appear to be driven through an ancient type of phototransduction cascade similar to that in rhabdomeric photoreceptors involving a G-protein q, the activation of phospholipase C, calcium mobilization, and the release of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. Based on their intrinsic photosensitivity, HCs may have a key dual function in the retina of vertebrates, potentially regulating nonvisual tasks together with their sister cells, ipRGCs, and with visual photoreceptors, modulating lateral interactions and retinal processing.
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Interactive effect of light colours and temporal synergism of circadian neural oscillations in reproductive regulation of Japanese quail. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY B-BIOLOGY 2016; 162:65-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2016.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2015] [Revised: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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50
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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
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