Suprachiasmatic nucleus slices induce molecular oscillations in fibroblasts

Abstract

Objective To study whether suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) slices are able to induce the molecular oscillations in NIH/3T3 fibroblast. Methods SCN slices from 10-day-old SD rat and NIH/3T3 cells were co-cultured in a serum-free condition. 24h mRNA profiles of Per1 and Rev-Erbα were measured in NIH/3T3 cells using real-time PCR. Results After co-cultured for 6 days, ten SCN slices can induce the significant daily oscillation of Per1 and Rev-Erba mRNA expression in NIH/3T3 cells (P<0.01). The peak time Rev-erbα and Per1 were at CT5 and CT11 respectively. Rev-Erbα oscillations were significant even with two SCN slices and 2 days co-culture (P<0.05). In contrast, Per1 expression fluctuation was not observed until more than 6 days of co-culture and with six SCN slices (P=0.031). Conclusion Diffusible signals release from SCN slices can regulate molecular rhythms in cultured fibroblasts. Rev-Erbα and Per1 don't start to oscillate at the same time, and Rev-Erbα is more sensitive to SCN signal. Key words: Circadian; Suprachiasmatic nucleus; Rev-Erbα; Per1