Work

Rhythmic regulation of membrane potential and potassium current persists in SCN neurons in the absence of environmental input

Year: 2004

Type: article

Abstract: Neurons of the mammalian suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) generate self-sustained rhythms of action potential frequency having a period of approximately 24 h. It is generally believed that cell autonomous circadian oscillation of a network of biological clock genes drives the circadian rhythm in neuronal firing rate through as yet unspecified effects on the neuronal membrane. While it is clear that cyclic gene expression continues in constant darkness, previous studies have not examined which specific membrane properties of SCN neurons continue to oscillate in constant conditions. Here, we demonstrate that SCN neurons exhibit robust rhythms in resting membrane potential and input resistance in constant darkness. Furthermore, application of the K+ channel blocker tetraethylammonium revealed a rhythm in K+ current amplitude that persists in constant darkness and underlies the rhythm in membrane potential.

Source: European Journal of Neuroscience

DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2004.03555.x

Authors: Sandra J. Kuhlman, Douglas G. McMahon

Institutions: University of Kentucky, Vanderbilt University

Language: English

Topic: Circadian rhythm and melatonin

Subfield: Endocrine and Autonomic Systems

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health

Award: G8851607989