Mutation of the circadian clock gene Per2 alters vascular endothelial function.

Background: The circadian clock regulates biological processes including cardiovascular function and metabolism. In the present study, we investigated the role of the circadian clock gene Period2 (Per2) in endothelial function in a mouse model.

Methods And Results: Compared with the wild-type littermates, mice with Per2 mutation exhibited impaired endothelium-dependent relaxations to acetylcholine in aortic rings suspended in organ chambers.