Mapping quantitative trait loci affecting circadian photosensitivity in retinally degenerate mice

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Takashi Yoshimura1, Yuki Yokota, Akira Ishikawa

  • 1Division of Biomodeling, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan. takashiy@agr.nagoya-u.ac.jp

Journal of Biological Rhythms
|December 6, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Retinal degeneration in mice affects circadian photosensitivity. This study identified multiple genes on three chromosomes influencing this altered photosensitivity in rd mice.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Neuroscience
  • Chronobiology

Background:

  • Retinally degenerate C57BL/6J (rd/rd) mice exhibit unattenuated circadian photosensitivity.
  • Conversely, CBA/J (rd/rd) mice with the same mutation show attenuated circadian photosensitivity compared to normal CBA/N (+/+) mice.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify genes responsible for the differential circadian photosensitivity observed in rd mice.
  • To investigate the genetic basis of circadian photoentrainment in the context of retinal degeneration.

Main Methods:

  • Quantitative Trait Locus (QTL) analysis was performed.
  • Cross-breeding and phenotyping of C57BL/6J (rd/rd) and CBA/J (rd/rd) mice were utilized.

Main Results:

  • Several putative quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were detected on chromosomes 8, 12, and 17.
  • These findings indicate that multiple genes influence circadian photosensitivity in rd mice.

Conclusions:

  • Circadian photosensitivity in rd mice is regulated by multiple genetic factors.
  • Identifying these genes could enhance understanding of circadian photoentrainment and related sleep-wake disorders.

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