Influence of Adiponectin Signaling in Regulation of Avian Migration

Migration events and associated changes in an individual s behavior patterns occur on a seasonal basis, and are regulated by both circadian and circannual clocks. Although the effects of biological clocks on physiology and behavior are readily observable, their mechanisms and pathways are only slowly being detailed. Certain fat hormones, including adiponectin and visfatin, may be important to timekeeping systems and act as signals of body condition. A biological clock in adipose tissue may regulate the different circadian profiles of adiponectin secretion to blood plasma in migrating versus non-migrating birds. Seasonal differences in the circadian signaling of fat hormones might provide individuals with physiological information regarding fat deposits and may influence seasonal behavioral changes necessary for migration. In addition, because birds have no circulating leptin, a satiety hormone, adiponectin and visfatin may play even larger roles in energy homeostasis, metabolism, and feeding-related behaviors in avian species than in other vertebrates.

Contact

  Dan Grear
  ecologyservice@psu.edu