We live on a planet that is bathed in daily and seasonal sunlight cycles. In this context,
terrestrial life forms have evolved mechanisms that directly harness light energy (plants) or …

Synchronization of mammalian breeding activity to the annual change of photoperiod and
environmental conditions is of the utmost importance for individual survival and species …

Abstract Background The Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) is a popular domestic poultry
species and an increasingly significant model species in avian developmental, behavioural …

Rhodopsin is the classical light sensor. Although rhodopsin has long been known to be
important for image formation in the eye, the requirements for opsins in non–image …

Accurate timing and physiological adaptation to anticipate seasonal changes are an
essential requirement for an organism's survival. In contrast to all other environmental cues …

Ubiquitous in non-mammalian vertebrates, extra-retinal photoreceptors (ERPs) have been
linked to an array of physiological, metabolic, behavioral, and morphological changes …

Genetic selection for earlier sexual maturation and extended production cycles in laying
hens has significantly improved reproductive efficiency. While limited emphasis has been …

To meet the high calcium (Ca) demand during eggshell biomineralization (2g of Ca per
egg), laying hens develop specific metabolic regulations to maintain Ca homeostasis. The …

The application of ultraviolet (UV) light in poultry production is garnering increased interest
with the drive toward improved poultry welfare and optimized production. Poultry can see in …

For nearly a century, we have known that brain photoreceptors regulate avian seasonal
biology. Two photopigments, vertebrate ancient opsin (VA) and neuropsin (OPN5), provide …