Cry1 - cryptochrome 1 (photolyase-like) Gene

This gene encodes a flavin adenine dinucleotide-binding protein that is a key component of the circadian core oscillator complex, which regulates the circadian clock. This gene is upregulated by Clock/Arntl heterodimers but then represses this upregulation in a feedback loop using Per/Cry heterodimers to interact with Clock/Arntl. Polymorphisms in this gene have been associated with altered sleep patterns. The encoded protein is widely conserved across Plants and Animals. Loss of this gene results in a shortened circadian cycle in complete darkness. [provided by RefSeq, Feb 2014]