The Impact of Anticipatory Stress (Fear) On Circadian Rhythmicity of Habenular Neurons in Zebrafish

Emerging evidence demonstrates that circadian rhythm disruption is highly linked with chronic stress factors such as infection and human relationships. However, the neural and molecular mechanisms underlying the circadian rhythm disruption caused by chronic stress remain underexplored. This thesis aimed to explore whether and how prolonged stress exposure affects the circadian rhythmicity of habenular neurons and sleep and social behaviors in zebrafish. This study has provided valuable insights into the intricate interaction between the circadian clock, the glutamatergic system, and behavioral performance, demonstrating the role of habenular circadian function in stress and sleep regulation through glutamatergic modulation of the habenula.