Unwinding the molecular basis of interval and circadian timing

Abstract

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Neural timing mechanisms range from the millisecond to diurnal, and possibly annual, frequencies. Two of the main processes under study are the interval timer (seconds-to-minute range) and the circadian clock. The molecular basis of these two mechanisms is the subject of intense research, as well as their possible relationship. This article summarizes data from studies investigating a possible interaction between interval and circadian timing and reviews the molecular basis of both mechanisms, including the discussion of the contribution from studies of genetically modified animal models. While a common neurochemical substrate for timing mechanisms in the brain has been related to dopamine-reward systems, circadian modulation of interval timing suggests an interaction of different frequencies in cerebral temporal processes.

Keywords

• Dopamine
• Serotonin
• Glutamate
• interval timing
• Circadian system
• Cortico-striatal circuits