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Circadian pacemaker neurons: membranes and molecules.

J W Jacklet1

  • 1Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York 12222.

Journal De Physiologie
|January 1, 1988
PubMed
Summary

Marine gastropods possess eye-based circadian pacemakers controlling optic nerve compound action potentials. These neurons synchronize via dye coupling and chemical synapses, influenced by neurotransmitters like 5-HT and FMRF-NH2.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Chronobiology
  • Marine Biology

Background:

  • Circadian rhythms are regulated by internal pacemakers.
  • Marine gastropods like Bulla have eye-based circadian pacemakers.
  • These pacemakers generate rhythmic optic nerve compound action potentials (CAPs).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the cellular mechanisms underlying circadian timekeeping in Bulla pacemaker neurons.
  • To understand the intercellular communication and synchronization of these neurons.
  • To explore the neurochemical modulation of pacemaker neuron activity.

Main Methods:

  • Intracellular recording and dye injection (Lucifer yellow) in Bulla pacemaker neurons.
  • Electrophysiological analysis of neuronal responses to neurotransmitters and signaling molecules.
  • Investigation of synaptic interactions between bilateral pacemakers.

Main Results:

  • Pacemaker neurons exhibit dye coupling through gap junctions, ensuring synchronous firing.
  • Interactions between contralateral eye pacemakers involve reciprocal excitatory chemical synapses.
  • 5-HT and cAMP depolarize neurons by decreasing potassium current, while FMRF-NH2 hyperpolarizes them, potentially acting on the same channel.

Conclusions:

  • Bulla's retinal pacemaker neurons are electrically coupled and synaptically interact to maintain circadian rhythmicity.
  • Neurotransmitters 5-HT and FMRF-NH2 modulate pacemaker activity through distinct but potentially overlapping mechanisms.
  • This study provides insights into the cellular basis of circadian timekeeping in marine invertebrates.

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