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Altered circadian rhythmicity in the Wocko mouse, a hyperactive transgenic mutant
P J Sollars1, A Ryan, M D Ogilvie
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia 19104-6141, USA.
Neuroreport
|May 17, 1996
Summary
Altered daily activity levels impact the mammalian circadian clock. Wocko mice, exhibiting hyperactivity, showed a significantly shorter circadian rhythm period, suggesting spontaneous exercise modulates this internal timekeeping system.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Chronobiology
- Genetics
Background:
- The mammalian circadian clock regulates daily biological rhythms.
- Circadian clock period can be influenced by activity levels.
- Neurological mutations can affect behavior and circadian rhythms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the circadian rhythm period in Wocko mice, a transgenic neurological mutant.
- To determine if Wocko mutation affects the period of wheel-running activity.
- To explore the relationship between hyperactivity and circadian clock function.
Main Methods:
- Monitoring wheel-running activity in Wocko mice and normal littermates under constant dark conditions.
- Measuring the period of circadian rhythm using activity data.
- Quantifying total activity levels via infrared beam interruption.
Main Results:
- Wocko mice exhibited a significantly shorter circadian rhythm period compared to normal littermates.
- Total activity levels were significantly elevated in Wocko mice.
- The observed hyperactivity in Wocko mice correlated with altered circadian timing.
Conclusions:
- The Wocko mutation shortens the circadian clock period in mice.
- Spontaneous exercise and hyperactivity can modulate the mammalian circadian timekeeping system.
- This study provides insights into the genetic and behavioral influences on circadian rhythms.
