Characteristics of the light-induced phase response of circadian activity rhythms in common marmosets, Callithrix j. jacchus [primates-Cebidae].

Phase-response experiments using 1-h light pulses (LPs) of 1,100 lux applied under constant dim light of 0.3 lux were conducted with common marmosets, Callithrix j. jacchus, in order to obtain a complete phase-response curve established according to the common experimental procedure in a diurnal primate. Maximal phase delays of the free-running circadian activity rhythm (-90 min) were induced by LPs delivered at circadian time (CT) 12; e.g., during the beginning of the marmosets' rest time, maximal advances (+25 min) were elicited by pulses administered during the late subjective night at CT 21. In contrast to rodents, neither regular transient cycles nor regular period responses resulted from LP applications at different phases. To check whether the underlying period length affects the phase response in primates as well, the marmosets' circadian timing system was entrained to 25 h by a light:dark (LD) cycle of 12.5:12.5 h. The 1-h LPs were delivered during the first circadian cycle produced under constant dim light after the entraining LD periods. Here, LPs applied at CT 21 led to phase advances exceeding those measured during the steady-state free run. At CT 12, minor or no phase delays could be elicited. These findings show that the phase-shifting effect of LPs on the circadian system of marmosets is similar to that observed in other diurnal mammals. Some of the results indicate that in this diurnal primate, LP-induced phase shifts may be mediated in part by a light-induced increase in locomotor activity (arousal).