Na_v1.1 channels are critical for intercellular communication in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and for normal circadian rhythms

摘要

In mammals, a master biological clock governing 24-h rhythms is located in a brain region called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hy-pothalamus. Because the period of the SCN is not exactly 24 h, it needs to be reset daily, which is achieved predominantly by the light-dark cycle (1). Research has long shown that interaeuronal communication within the SCN is critical for this resetting and communicating timing (2), although the mechanisms are not completely understood. Here, we provide evidence that a specific voltage-gated Na~+ channel is critical for normal SCN function. Failure of this Na~+ channel is the main cause of a severe form of epilepsy. Our study provides putative mechanisms underlying sleep disruptions in patients with this disease and suggests a potential treatment for their sleep disorders.