Dopamine Neurons and Infradian Rhythms in Sleep-Wake Cycles
Author Information
Author(s): Markam Pratap S., Bourguignon Clément, Zhu Lei, Ward Bridget, Darvas Martin, Sabatini Paul V., Kokoeva Maia V., Giros Bruno, Storch Kai-Florian
Primary Institution: McGill University
Hypothesis
The study investigates whether mesolimbic dopamine neurons are responsible for generating infradian rhythms in sleep-wake and activity states.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that mesolimbic dopamine neurons are crucial for the generation of infradian rhythms associated with sleep and manic behaviors.
Supporting Evidence
- Chronic methamphetamine treatment led to the emergence of infradian locomotor rhythms in mice.
- Genetic disruption of dopamine production in specific neurons abolished the capacity to produce infradian rhythms.
- Chemogenetic activation of dopamine neurons lengthened locomotor periods in mice.
- 48-hour rhythmicity in sleep and activity was observed in mice, mirroring patterns seen in bipolar disorder.
Takeaway
Mice given methamphetamine developed sleep and activity patterns that changed every 48 hours, similar to mood changes in people with bipolar disorder.
Methodology
Mice were treated with methamphetamine and their locomotor activity was monitored to assess the emergence of infradian rhythms.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the use of viral vectors for neuron manipulation, which may have unintended effects.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on behavioral output without neurophysiological confirmation of infradian rhythms.
Participant Demographics
Adult male and female mice were used in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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