Single gene triggers winter behaviours, governs six monthly cycles in mammals

As winter approaches, researchers have uncovered the genetic switch that tells mammals when to hibernate or migrate. A team from the University of Glasgow has pinpointed the Dio3 gene as the key regulator of seasonal behaviours across mammals.

Using transcriptomic sequencing and careful monitoring of Djungarian hamsters, the scientists showed that shortening daylight activates Dio3, triggering a six-month cycle of winter behaviours. When the gene’s activity ends, the animals spontaneously return to ‘summer’ conditions - closely mirroring natural seasonal patterns.

“This discovery reveals the intrinsic genetic mechanism controlling seasonal physiology and behaviour,” said Professor Tyler Stevenson, University of Glasgow. “Understanding how and when these genes switch on gives insight not only into animal biology, but also potential implications for health and disease.”

The study [1], published in eLife and funded by the Leverhulme Trust, marks a significant step in decoding the seasonal internal clock that governs mammalian life - with potential applications ranging from veterinary science to human circannual rhythms.

More information online

1. Hypothalamic deiodinase type-3 establishes the period of circannual interval timing in mammals  published in eLife