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Modulation of circadian rhythm of discharges of suprachiasmatic nucleus neurons in rat hypothalamic slices by melatonin

Zhou Xianju, Jiang Xinghong, Yu Guangdi, Yin Qizhang

Laboratory of Neurobiology,Suzhou Medical College.Suzhou 215007,Jiangsu

Abstract

Spontaneous firing of suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) neurons and the effect of melatonin (MEL) were examined in hypothalamic slices made from pinealectomized rats or from the rats exposed to constant light. The results suggest that pineal gland, as a regulator of the organization of circadian rhythm, regulates the circadian rhythm of SCN neurons at two responsive time windows (CT8-10 and CT22-24) through high affinity ML-1 receptors in SCN.

Key words: Suprachiasmatic nucleus;Pinealectomy;Melatonin;Hypothalamic slice;Circadian rhythm;Luzindole prazosin;

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Citing This Article：

Zhou Xianju, Jiang Xinghong, Yu Guangdi, Yin Qizhang. Modulation of circadian rhythm of discharges of suprachiasmatic nucleus neurons in rat hypothalamic slices by melatonin. Acta Physiol Sin 2000; 52 (3): (in Chinese with English abstract).