Classic circadian characteristics: Historical perspective and properties relative to the synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942 model

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to introduce the basics of circadian biology relative to the cyanobacterial model system. It is meant to define the terms, characteristics, and rules that pertain to the study of circadian biology in the context of the cyanobacterial systems used to elucidate the mechanisms by which the prokaryotic circadian clock functions. In addition, its purpose is to serve as a conduit to the chapters in this book, which comprehensively review our most recent understanding about each of these canonical characteristics in the Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942 model system as well as other cyanobacterial and prokaryotic systems.