Klf15 Orchestrates Circadian Nitrogen Homeostasis

Diurnal variation in nitrogen homeostasis is observed across phylogeny. But whether these are endogenous rhythms, and if so, molecular mechanisms that link nitrogen homeostasis to the circadian clock remain unknown. Here, we provide evidence that a clock-dependent peripheral oscillator, Krüppel-like factor 15 transcriptionally coordinates rhythmic expression of multiple enzymes involved in mammalian nitrogen homeostasis. In particular, Krüppel-like factor 15-deficient mice exhibit no discernable amino acid rhythm, and the rhythmicity of ammonia to urea detoxification is impaired. Of the external cues, feeding plays a dominant role in modulating Krüppel-like factor 15 rhythm and nitrogen homeostasis. Further, when all behavioral, environmental and dietary cues were controlled in humans, nitrogen homeostasis exhibited an endogenous circadian rhythmicity. Thus, in mammals, nitrogen homeostasis exhibits circadian rhythmicity, and is orchestrated by Krüppel-like factor 15. [Display omitted] ► Nitrogen homeostasis exhibits circadian rhythmicity in mammals ► Klf 15 regulates rhythmic amino acid utilization and ammonia detoxification ► Krüppel-like factor 15 is regulated by the circadian clock ► Feeding is a major external cue regulating Klf15 rhythmicity and nitrogen homeostasis