Circadian Variations of Serum Mitochondrial Uncoupling Protein 1 (UCP1) Levels and Rectal Temperature in Capra Hircus

Background: The daily rhythm of body temperature is an important process to be studied not only to advance knowledge on the temporal variability of thermal homeostasis but also has a means to facilitate the study of biological rhythmicity in general. The aim of the present study was to study the daily rhythm of rectal temperature and the changes in the serum levels of mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in goat. Methods: On five female goats rectal temperature was recorded at 4 hour intervals for a 24 hour period. At the same time points blood samples were collected from each animal. Results: Daily rhythm of rectal temperature was observed in studied goats, whereas UCP1 did not show daily rhythmicity. Conclusion: The results obtained in the present study suggest that the regulation of rectal temperature is primarily under the circadian control. The absence of rhythmicity of UCP1serum levels suggest a lack of synchronization of this protein in the blood and that, probably, the activity of this protein is auxiliary to keeping the body temperature daily rhythm.