DNA switch

We identified a DNA switch required for daily regulation of behavior and physiology. To do so, we generated mutant mice carrying a mutation only at the E′-box cis-element in the promoter region of the core clock gene Per2. Although Per2 proteins remain intact, this non-coding E′-box mutation abolishes molecular clock oscillation and renders circadian locomotor activity and body temperature rhythm unstable. The discovery of the non-coding DNA switch required for circadian rhythm may provide clues to elucidate the genetic variance or polymorphism between morning person and evening person in humans. See: Doi & Shimatani et al Nature Commun, 2019