Altered circadian rhythmicity in the Wocko mouse, a hyperactive transgenic mutant

Induced changes in the level of daily activity can alter the period of the mammalian circadian clock. In this report, we examined the period of the circadian rhythm of wheel-running activity in a transgenic neurological mouse mutant, Wocko. Wocko mice display a dominant behavioral phenotype that consists of hyperactivity, circling and head tossing. The period of the circadian rhythm of wheel-running activity in constant dark conditions was significantly shorter in mice expressing the Wocko mutation than in their normal littermates. Total activity, monitored by the interruption of an array of infrared beams, was significantly elevated in Wocko mice. These findings support the view that spontaneous exercise can modulate the circadian timekeeping system.