Molecular Analysis of Light-signaling and Circadian Rhythm in theBrain

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In this study, we aimed at molecular level understanding of the photoreception systems in animals. Particularly we raised three projects: 1) Elucidation of unique gene networks that specify photoreceptor functions between the pineal gland and the retina, 2) Elucidation of the regulatory mechanisms for circadian clock phase, 3) Characterization of light-response properties in photoreceptive cells in the retina. The major outputs from our studies are: 1) Identification of transcription factors that govern the pineal specific gene expression, 2) Identification of multiple proteins regulating the clock phase and elucidation of the underlying mechanisms for the phase-shift, 3) Clarification of a mechanism that provides a difference of photoreceptive properties between retinal rods and cones.