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Science 18 July 2003:
Vol. 301. no. 5631, p. 273
DOI: 10.1126/science.301.5631.273o
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The circadian behavior of mammals is regulated by two transcription factors, CLOCK and NPAS2, that are related in sequence but differ in expression patterns. Dudley et al. (p. 379; see Perspective by Green and Menaker) found that NPAS2-deficient mice have abnormal sleep patterns during the night and, in contrast to wild-type mice, were unable to adapt to changes in feeding schedule. This phenotype suggests that their circadian behavior was dictated primarily by the light-dark cycle. These results are consistent with a model in which CLOCK is used for light-controlled rhythms and NPAS2 for sensory-controlled rhythms such as feeding. This duality may allow mammals to be more adaptable to changing environmental conditions.




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Science. ISSN 0036-8075 (print), 1095-9203 (online)