Age-related disruptions in circadian timing: evidence for “split” activity rhythms in the SAMP8

In the senescence-accelerated mouse of the P8 line (SAMP8), age-related changes in circadian timing include a decrease in amplitude of the rhythm, a slower rate of re-entrainment following a phase advance, and a longer free-running period (τ). The present study extends previous research by investigating possible split activity rhythms in the SAMP8. Running wheel activity was examined in 2-, 7-, and 12-month SAMP8. Consistent with previous research, rhythms of older SAMP8 were decreased in amplitude and showed high levels of activity during the light phase of the light-dark cycle. Contrary to previous reports, lengthening of τ in constant darkness was not observed. Additionally, activity rhythms were “split” in older SAMP8, demonstrated by 1) the appearance of a secondary peak in the periodogram at approximately half the value of τ and 2) the perceptual classification of actograms by naïve observers. This result differs from previous studies in hamsters demonstrating an age-related decrease in the incidence of rhythm splitting. Overall, the present findings provide further evidence for age-related disruption of circadian timing in SAMP8.