The Circadian Transcription Factor CLOCK Modulates Oxidative Stress Resistance via the ACHL-Relish Axis in Drosophila.

ABSTRACT: Circadian clocks orchestrate temporal regulation of diverse physiological processes, including innate immunity and oxidative stress responses. However, the molecular mechanisms by which core clock components modulate immune tone and redox homeostasis remain elusive. Here, the circadian transcription factor CLOCK (CLK) is identified as a key regulator of oxidative stress resistance in Drosophila melanogaster. Loss of clk significantly enhances survival under oxidative stress, accompanied by constitutive activation of innate immune pathways. Mechanistically, the RNA-binding protein Achilles (ACHL) is identified as a critical downstream effector of CLK. Indeed, CLK drives rhythmic transcription of Achl, and ACHL post-transcriptionally represses the NF-κB homolog Relish by promoting its mRNA d

SUBMITTER: Liu X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12822383 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature