Pigment-dispersing factor induces phase shifts of circadian locomotor rhythm in the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus

Pigment-dispersing factor (PDF) is an octadecapeptide distributed in the optic lobe and the brain in a variety of insect species. There are lines of evidence suggesting possible involvement of PDF in the insect circadian system. However, its physiological roles in the circadian time keeping mechanism have not been clearly defined. In this study, we have examined the phase shifting effects of Gryllus-PDF on the circadian locomotor rhythm in the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus of which circadian clock is located in the optic lobe. Phase shifts in the circadian activity rhythm were measured following microinjection of 22nl of vehicle (Ringer's solution) or O.lmM PDF into the optic lobe through the compound eye at various circadian times. The results showed that PDF induced phase shifts of the circadian clock in a phase-dependent manner, suggesting that it may play a role as an input signal for the circadian clock.