The influence of mercury and lead compounds on the circadian rhythm of cytoplasmic RNA in hypothalamic neurons of mice.

Abstract

Cytophotometric determinations of cytoplasmic RNA were performed at various hours in normal mice and those given a single injection of mercuric citrate or lead citrate. A cosinor analysis of the results has revealed a marked reduction of the amplitude of the rhythm of RNA content a shift of the acrophase to earlier hours in the experimental animals. Moreover, administration of the tested compounds caused a general reduction of the RNA content in the hypothalami.