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Chronobiology International
The Journal of Biological and Medical Rhythm Research
Volume 27, 2010 - Issue 1
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Research Papers

LACK OF CALBINDIN-D28K ALTERS RESPONSE OF THE MURINE CIRCADIAN CLOCK TO LIGHT

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Pages 68-82 | Received 23 Mar 2009, Accepted 21 Jul 2009, Published online: 05 Mar 2010
 

Abstract

A strong stimulus adjusting the circadian clock to the prevailing light-dark cycle is light. However, the circadian clock is reset by light only at specific times of the day. The mechanisms mediating such gating of light input to the CNS are not well understood. There is evidence that Ca2+ ions play an important role in intracellular signaling mechanisms, including signaling cascades stimulated by light. Therefore, Ca2+ is hypothesized to play a role in the light-mediated resetting of the circadian clock. Calbindin-D28k (CB; gene symbol: Calb1) is a Ca2+ binding protein implicated in Ca2+ homeostasis and sensing. The absence of this protein influences Ca2+ buffering capacity of a cell, alters spatio-temporal aspects of intracellular Ca2+ signaling, and hence might alter transmission of light information to the circadian clock in neurons of the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN). We tested mice lacking a functional Calb1 gene (Calb1−/−) and found an increased phase-delay response to light applied at circadian time (CT) 14 in these animals. This is accompanied by elevated induction of Per2 gene expression in the SCN. Period length and circadian rhythmicity were comparable between Calb1−/− and wild-type animals. Our findings indicate an involvement of CB in the signaling pathway that modulates the behavioral and molecular response to light. (Author correspondence: [email protected])

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors would like to thank S. Baeriswyl-Aebischer and A. Hayoz for technical assistance.

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