cGMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitor blocks light-induced phase advances of circadian rhythms in vivo

The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) contains the primary mammalian circadian clock. Light synchronizes these circadian rhythms through a mechanism involving the release of excitatory amino acids (EAA) and synthesis of nitric oxide (NO) in the SCN. In the current study, we investigated whether cGMP-mediated activation of cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) is associated with light-induced phase shifts of the circadian oscillator. Local administration of the specific PKG inhibitor, KT-5823, significantly attenuated light-induced advances in the phase of activity rhythms when administered during late subjective night (CT 19). Similar treatment at CT 14 had no significant effect on light-induced phase delays. These results are the first to implicate PKG in the biochemical pathway(s) responsible for photic phase advances, and suggest a divergence in biochemical pathways involved in photic phase shifts.