Circadian clock genes expression in different regions of suprachiasmatic nuclei of tuco-tucos (Ctenomys coludo) captured in summer and winter

• Grant number: 23/17717-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate
• Start date: May 01, 2024
• End date: April 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Physiology - General Physiology
• Principal Investigator: Gisele Akemi Oda
• Grantee: Giovane Carreira Improta
• Supervisor: Horacio Oscar de La Iglesia
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: University of Washington, United States
• Associated to the scholarship: 22/12336-2 - Circadian clock genes expression in different regions of suprachiasmatic nuclei of Tuco-Tucos (Ctenomys coludo) captured in summer and winter, BP.DR

Abstract

This collaborative research initiative between the Laboratório de Cronobiologia Binacional (LaBiCrono) and Professor Dr. Horacio de la Iglesia's laboratory at the University of Washington aims to delve into the molecular chronobiology of tuco-tucos, a subterranean neotropical rodent species that exhibits intriguing natural light exposure patterns. Dr. de la Iglesia's expertise in circadian rhythms, especially at the molecular level, complements LaBiCrono's extensive work in behavioral and ecophysiological approaches. The project aims to explore the temporal profile of clock-gene expression in the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) and extra-SCN brain oscillators of tuco-tucos. Unique in its approach, the study involves freshly captured animals from different photoperiods, providing a first-of-its-kind molecular insight into circadian rhythms in this species. We will take the in situ hybridization approach against Per1, Per2, Bmal1 and Avp. The project anticipates uncovering seasonal variations in clock gene expression, shedding light on how tuco-tucos encode photoperiodic information. This innovative endeavor not only enriches the understanding of circadian rhythms in unique environments but also sets the stage for potential molecular studies using the LaBiCrono structure in the future. This collaboration underscores the complementarity and mutual interest between LaBiCrono and Dr. de la Iglesia's lab, uniting their strengths to address a scientific question unattainable by either party alone. With Dr. de la Iglesia's extensive experience in molecular assays and promising pilot tests, this venture marks a pivotal step in advancing the frontiers of chronobiological research in the unique context of tuco-tucos.