The role of circadian clock gene Arntl in the winter depression-like behavior in melatonin-proficient female CBA/N mice.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as winter depression, is a subtype of depression typically manifesting in winter. Typical symptoms of SAD, such as an increased need for sleep and carbohydrate cravings associated with increased appetite and weight, are distinct from those of major depression, and the underlying mechanisms of SAD remain unclear. Although laboratory mice are generally considered non-seasonal animals, we observed depression-like behaviors in melatonin-proficient female CBA/N mice maintained under winter-mimicking conditions. Transcriptome analysis of the brains of CBA/N mice maintained under winter- and summer-mimicking conditions revealed changes in the expression of circadian clock genes, including Arntl (also known as Bmal1). We generated Arntl-deficient, melatonin-proficient CBA/N mice using the speed congenic method to examine the role of Arntl in depressive behavior. The tail suspension test in these mice revealed a depressive phenotype. These results suggested that the circadian clock gene Arntl may be involved in winter depression-like behavior.

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