Seasonal changes in day length induce multisynaptic neurotransmitter switching to regulate hypothalamic network activity and behavior.

TitleSeasonal changes in day length induce multisynaptic neurotransmitter switching to regulate hypothalamic network activity and behavior.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2022
AuthorsPorcu A, Nilsson A, Booreddy S, Barnes SA, Welsh DK, Dulcis D
JournalSci Adv
Volume8
Issue35
Paginationeabn9867
Date Published2022 Sep 02
ISSN2375-2548
Abstract

Seasonal changes in day length (photoperiod) affect numerous physiological functions. The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN)-paraventricular nucleus (PVN) axis plays a key role in processing photoperiod-related information. Seasonal variations in SCN and PVN neurotransmitter expression have been observed in humans and animal models. However, the molecular mechanisms by which the SCN-PVN network responds to altered photoperiod is unknown. Here, we show in mice that neuromedin S (NMS) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) neurons in the SCN display photoperiod-induced neurotransmitter plasticity. In vivo recording of calcium dynamics revealed that NMS neurons alter PVN network activity in response to winter-like photoperiod. Chronic manipulation of NMS neurons is sufficient to induce neurotransmitter switching in PVN neurons and affects locomotor activity. Our findings reveal previously unidentified molecular adaptations of the SCN-PVN network in response to seasonality and the role for NMS neurons in adjusting hypothalamic function to day length via a coordinated multisynaptic neurotransmitter switching affecting behavior.

DOI10.1126/sciadv.abn9867
Alternate JournalSci Adv
PubMed ID36054362
Category: 
IRG Funded