Neuropeptide Y Blocks GABA_B-induced Phase-shifts of the Suprachiasmatic Circadian Clock in Vitro

Authors

Rebecca Prosser, University of Tennessee - Knoxville
Kevin R. Biggs, University of Tennessee - Knoxville

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-1999

Abstract

The mammalian circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) generates 24-h rhythms of neuronal activity in vitro. We have previously shown that the GABA_B agonist baclofen resets the SCN pacemaker in vitro in a phase-dependent manner: advances are induced at zeitgeber time (ZT) 6 and delays are induced at ZT 22. We have also previously shown that neuropeptide Y (NPY) phase-shifts the SCN clock when applied at ZT 10 but not at other times. Here, we show that NPY blocks the baclofen-induced phase-shifts at ZT 6 and ZT 22. The inhibition by NPY appears dose-dependent, and a higher concentration of NPY is required for complete inhibition of the baclofen-induced phase-advances than the phase-delays. Conversely, NPY-induced phase-shifts at ZT 10 are unaffected by co-application of baclofen. These results are consistent with previous findings showing that NPY blocks in vitro phase-shifts induced by a variety of neuromodulators during both the daytime and nighttime.

Recommended Citation

Kevin R. Biggs, Rebecca A. Prosser, Neuropeptide Y blocks GABAB-induced phase-shifts of the suprachiasmatic circadian clock in vitro, Brain Research, Volume 821, Issue 2, 13 March 1999, Pages 461-466, ISSN 0006-8993, DOI: 10.1016/S0006-8993(99)01104-X. (http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6SYR-3VXY3B4-T/2/7414f795555fd6e66d2c2beacdc902dd)