Effects of Li+, Rb+and tetraethylammoniumchloride on the locomotor activity rhythm ofMusca domestica

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Abstract
The effect of Li+, Rb+ and tetraethylammoniumchloride (TEA) on the locomotor activity rhythm of Musca domestica was studied. Li+ as well as TEA lengthen the free run period t. This effect was more pronounced in animals with shorter period lengths. The effect of Rb∗ depends on the previous period length. In flies which had a short period, Rb+ lengthened, and in those with a long period Rb+ shortened t. Replacing the Li+ solution with water reverted the period lengthening partly. In the case of Rb∗ and TEA the rhythm became obscured after replacing the solutions with water. The involvement of K+ ions and transport ATPases in the expression of circadian rhythms is discussed.