Neurophysiological Analysis of Circadian Rhythm Entrainment
Abstract
During the 1991 contract period we published papers on the effects of clorgyline treatment on photic responses of neurons in the circadian entrainment pathway, and on the effects of NMDA neurotransmitter antagonists on photic activation of gene expression in the entrainment pathway. We have completed further studies on regulation of messenger RNA levels for several immediate-early genes (IEG) in suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) cells in response to light pulses and on the effects of a non-NMDA antagonist on IEG expression in the SCN; the related manuscripts have been accepted for publication. Further studies have been completed and submitted for publication or are currently in preparation. These include studies on: the effects of different temporal patterns of light exposure on SCN cells and on rhythm phase-shifting; antagonism by serotonin of light effects on cells in the circadian system; the effects of bombesin-like peptides on SCN neuronal activity; the effects of several excitatory amino acids on SCN cells in vitro; the regulation of the melatonin sensitivity rhythm of SCN cells; and the roles of nerve growth factor and muscarinic receptor antagonists in modifying circadian responses to cholinergic agents. The results of these studies have either been submitted for publication or are in preparation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 31, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA248466
Entities
People
- Benjamin Rusak
Organizations
- Dalhousie University