locomotor rhythm

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The rhythm of the locomotor activity of an organism during its 24 hour activity cycle. [GOC:go_curators]

Locomotor rhythm, also known as circadian rhythm of locomotion, is a biological process that governs the timing and pattern of movement in organisms. It is a fundamental aspect of animal behavior, influencing daily activities such as foraging, mating, and sleep.

**The molecular basis of locomotor rhythm**

Locomotor rhythm is driven by an internal biological clock, known as the circadian clock. This clock is a complex network of genes and proteins that oscillate in a 24-hour cycle. Key genes involved in the circadian clock include **CLOCK**, **BMAL1**, **PER**, and **CRY**.

- **CLOCK** and **BMAL1** proteins form a dimer that activates the transcription of **PER** and **CRY** genes.
- **PER** and **CRY** proteins accumulate in the cytoplasm and eventually form a complex that inhibits the activity of the **CLOCK/BMAL1** dimer.
- This negative feedback loop results in a rhythmic expression of the clock genes and a cyclical oscillation of the clock proteins.

**Environmental entrainment of locomotor rhythm**

The circadian clock is synchronized with the external environment through a process called entrainment. The primary entrainment cue is light, which is detected by specialized photoreceptor cells in the eye. Light information is transmitted to the brain, where it resets the clock to maintain a 24-hour rhythm. Other environmental cues, such as temperature and food availability, can also influence locomotor rhythm.

**Neurobiology of locomotor rhythm**

In mammals, the master circadian clock is located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus. The SCN receives light input from the retina and coordinates the activity of peripheral clocks in other tissues and organs.

**Regulation of locomotor activity**

Locomotor activity is regulated by a complex interplay of neural and hormonal signals. The SCN projects to various brain regions involved in motor control, such as the motor cortex and the spinal cord. Additionally, hormones like melatonin and cortisol influence locomotor activity.

**Consequences of disrupted locomotor rhythm**

Disruption of the circadian clock can have significant consequences for health and well-being. This can occur due to factors such as shift work, jet lag, or exposure to artificial light at night. Disrupted locomotor rhythms have been linked to increased risk of chronic diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

**In summary, locomotor rhythm is a complex biological process driven by an internal circadian clock that is synchronized with the external environment. It is a fundamental aspect of animal behavior, with implications for health, well-being, and overall fitness.**'
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Proteins (5)

Compounds (31)