Changes in Clock Genes Expression in Esophagus in Rat Reflux Esophagitis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Chronobiology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is linked to sleep disturbances.
• Clock genes regulate physiological functions via circadian rhythms.
• The relationship between clock genes and GERD remains unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of reflux esophagitis on the circadian expression of clock genes.
• To examine clock gene variability in the esophagus and other organs in a rat model.

Main Methods:

• A rat model of reflux esophagitis was established.
• Expression of clock genes (Per1, Per2, Per3, Cry1, Cry2, Arntl, Clock) was analyzed via qPCR in esophagus, stomach, intestine, and liver.
• Serum melatonin and IL-6 levels were measured.

Main Results:

• Reflux esophagitis caused significant disruption to the circadian variability of most clock genes in the esophagus during the acute phase.
• This disruption extended to the stomach, small intestine, and liver.
• While some clock gene variability normalized in the chronic phase, others remained disrupted.

Conclusions:

• Disruption of circadian clock gene variability is associated with reflux esophagitis.
• These findings suggest a potential role for clock gene dysregulation in GERD pathogenesis.