Upstream open reading frames dynamically modulate CLOCK protein translation to regulate circadian rhythms and sleep.

ABSTRACT: The circadian rhythm is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism with translational regulation increasingly recognized as pivotal in its modulation. In this study, we found that upstream open reading frames (uORFs) are enriched in Drosophila circadian rhythm genes, with particularly conserved uORFs present in core circadian clock genes. We demonstrate evidence that the uORFs of the core clock gene, Clock (Clk), rhythmically and substantially attenuate CLK protein translation in Drosophila, with pronounced suppression occurring during daylight hours. Eliminating Clk uORFs leads to increased CLK protein levels during the day and results in a shortened circadian cycle, along with a broad shift in clock gene expression rhythms. Notably, Clk uORF deletion also augments morning sleep by reducing do

SUBMITTER: Sun Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12121920 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature