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Neuropeptide Y and behaviorally induced phase shifts
S M Biello1, D Janik, N Mrosovsky
1Department of Zoology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Neuroscience
|September 1, 1994
Summary
Neuropeptide Y plays a role in the circadian clock
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Chronobiology
Background:
- Neuropeptide Y (NPY) fibers connect the lateral geniculate nucleus to the suprachiasmatic nucleus.
- This pathway is implicated in non-photic circadian clock resetting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if NPY mediates circadian phase shifts induced by novelty-induced wheel running.
Main Methods:
- Administered NPY antiserum or normal serum to hamsters via cannula targeting the suprachiasmatic nucleus.
- Exposed hamsters to a novel wheel for 3 hours to assess running-induced phase shifts.
Main Results:
- NPY antiserum significantly attenuated the phase advance typically seen after wheel running.
- Locomotor activity in a novel environment was not essential for NPY-mediated shifts.
Conclusions:
- NPY signaling from the lateral geniculate nucleus to the suprachiasmatic nucleus is crucial for novelty-induced circadian rhythm adjustments.
- Antiserum administration offers a method for neurochemical manipulation when antagonists are unavailable.