Clock cells produce 1000 proteins rhythmically 2 times a day

(Tufts University, November 06, 2013)

Researchers at Tufts University have examined a large group of rhythmically produced proteins in cells that make up the circadian clock (also called clock cells) of the fruit fly Drosophila. Surprisingly, they find that a majority of the proteins are produced during two intervals of the circadian cycle, the middle of the day or middle of the night. This study uses an innovative ribosome profiling technique to reveal the complete circadian program of protein synthesis within these clock cells. The researchers hope that by identifying the specific times proteins are produced in clock cells and their functions, they can better understand how the circadian clock regulates protein production and the body’s biological systems. This, in turn, will provide insight into diseases and psychiatric disorders caused by disruptions in the circadian system.