Parameterized resetting model captures dose-dependent entrainment of the mouse circadian clock

Abstract

Abstract The phase response curve (PRC) represents the time-dependent changes in circadian rhythm phase following internal or external stimuli. However, this time dependence complicates PRC measurement and quantification owing to its variable shape with changing stimulus intensity. Our previous work demonstrated that resetting a desynchronized circadian clock (singularity response, SR) simplifies the analysis by requiring only amplitude and phase parameters. In this study, we construct a comprehensive model for phase resetting in the mouse circadian clock by converting PRCs into SR parameters. We analyze single-cell PRCs and show that the SR amplitude parameters for different stimulus concentrations follow the Hill equation. Additionally, the model predicts the combined effects of multiple stimuli and pre-treatment (background) on phase response by simple addition or subtraction of individual SR parameters. Experimental validation using SR measurements in mouse cells and tissues confirms the model’s accuracy. This study demonstrates that SRs facilitate PRC quantification and reveal simple rules governing phase resetting properties under various conditions using SR parameters.