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Clock gene expression in the submandibular glands
M Furukawa1, T Kawamoto, M Noshiro
1Department of Dental and Medical Biochemistry, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan.
Journal of Dental Research
|November 24, 2005
Summary
Salivary glands possess a molecular clock system, with key clock genes exhibiting daily rhythms. This circadian clock influences amylase gene expression in these glands.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Chronobiology
- Physiology
Background:
- Circadian rhythms are regulated by clock genes in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and peripheral tissues.
- The molecular basis of circadian regulation in salivary glands remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and function of the molecular clock system in salivary glands.
- To examine the expression patterns of clock-related and salivary gland-specific genes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of clock gene expression (Per1, Per2, Cry1, Bmal1, Dec1, Dec2, Dbp, Reverbalpha) in submandibular glands under light-dark conditions.
- Assessment of salivary gland-specific genes, including amylase 1 mRNA.
- Evaluation of gene expression changes in Clock mutant and Cry1/Cry2 knockout mouse models.
Main Results:
- Robust circadian expression rhythms were observed for multiple clock genes in submandibular glands.
- Amylase 1 mRNA levels exhibited a significant circadian rhythm, unlike other examined salivary gland genes.
- Clock and Cry gene disruptions altered the mRNA levels of clock-related genes and amylase 1.
Conclusions:
- The findings demonstrate that a Clock- and Cry-dependent molecular clock system is active and functional in salivary glands.
- This molecular clock influences the circadian expression of specific genes, such as amylase 1, within the salivary glands.