Difference in control between spring and autumn migration in birds: insight from seasonal changes in hypothalamic gene expression in captive buntings.

ABSTRACT: We hypothesized differences in molecular strategies for similar journeys that migrants undertake to reproduce in spring and to overwinter in autumn. We tested this in redheaded buntings (Emberiza bruniceps) photoinduced into spring and autumn migratory states, with winter and summer non-migratory states as controls. Compared with controls, buntings fattened, gained weight and showed Zugunruhe (nocturnal migratory restlessness) in the migratory state. Spring migration was associated with greater fat and body mass, and higher intensity of Zugunruhe, compared with autumn migration. Circulating corticosterone levels were higher in spring, while T3 levels were higher in autumn. Hypothalamic expression of thyroid hormone-responsive (dio2, dio3), light-responsiv

SUBMITTER: Sharma A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6125905 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature