Understanding Cellular Clock Synchronization

Mice without a brain clock lose the synchronization between the different organs, as shown in the bioluminescence profile (right). In the liver, however, synchronization is maintained. Credit: UNIGE
Circadian clocks, which regulate the metabolic functions of all living beings over a period of about 24 hours, are one of the most fundamental biological mechanisms. In humans, their disruption is the cause of many metabolic diseases such as diabetes or serious liver diseases. Although scientists have been studying this mechanism for many years, little is known about how it works. Thanks to an observation tool based on bioluminescence, a research team from the University of Geneva (UNIGE) were able to demonstrate that cells that compose a particular organ can be in-phase, even in the absence of the central brain clock or of any other clocks in the body. Indeed, the scientists managed to restore circadian function in the liver in completely arrhythmic mice, demonstrating that neurons are not unique in their ability to coordinate. 

Using new imaging technology, researchers find cellular clocks in a given organ can be synchronized without the intervention of external signals.

Scientists now want to understand how these cells stay in the same phase when they are not receiving any information, either from the brain or from other external signals. Their hypothesis? The existence of a form of coupling, in the form of an exchange of molecules between these different

cells.

Thanks

Cecile G. Tamura