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. 1997 Aug 15;16(16):5006–5018. doi: 10.1093/emboj/16.16.5006

Multiple circadian-regulated elements contribute to cycling period gene expression in Drosophila.

R Stanewsky 1, C F Jamison 1, J D Plautz 1, S A Kay 1, J C Hall 1
PMCID: PMC1170135  PMID: 9305642

Abstract

A new regulatory element necessary for the correct temporal expression of the period (per) gene was identified by monitoring real-time per expression in living individual flies carrying two different period-luciferase transgenes. luciferase RNA driven from only the per promoter was not sufficient to replicate the normal pattern of per RNA cycling; however, a per-luc fusion RNA driven from a transgene containing additional per sequences cycled identically to endogenous per. The results indicate the existence of at least two circadian-regulated elements--one within the promoter and one within the transcribed portion of the per gene. Phase and amplitude analysis of both per-luc transgenes revealed that normal per expression requires the regulation of these elements at distinct phases and suggests a mechanism by which biological clocks sustain high-amplitude feedback oscillations.

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Selected References

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