101
|
Lebow MA, Chen A. Overshadowed by the amygdala: the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis emerges as key to psychiatric disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2016; 21:450-63. [PMID: 26878891 PMCID: PMC4804181 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2016.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 421] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Revised: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is a center of integration for limbic information and valence monitoring. The BNST, sometimes referred to as the extended amygdala, is located in the basal forebrain and is a sexually dimorphic structure made up of between 12 and 18 sub-nuclei. These sub-nuclei are rich with distinct neuronal subpopulations of receptors, neurotransmitters, transporters and proteins. The BNST is important in a range of behaviors such as: the stress response, extended duration fear states and social behavior, all crucial determinants of dysfunction in human psychiatric diseases. Most research on stress and psychiatric diseases has focused on the amygdala, which regulates immediate responses to fear. However, the BNST, and not the amygdala, is the center of the psychogenic circuit from the hippocampus to the paraventricular nucleus. This circuit is important in the stimulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Thus, the BNST has been largely overlooked with respect to its possible dysregulation in mood and anxiety disorders, social dysfunction and psychological trauma, all of which have clear gender disparities. In this review, we will look in-depth at the anatomy and projections of the BNST, and provide an overview of the current literature on the relevance of BNST dysregulation in psychiatric diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A Lebow
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel ,grid.419548.50000 0000 9497 5095Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max-Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - A Chen
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel ,grid.419548.50000 0000 9497 5095Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max-Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
102
|
Avery SN, Clauss JA, Blackford JU. The Human BNST: Functional Role in Anxiety and Addiction. Neuropsychopharmacology 2016; 41:126-41. [PMID: 26105138 PMCID: PMC4677124 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2015.185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Revised: 05/03/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The consequences of chronic stress on brain structure and function are far reaching. Whereas stress can produce short-term adaptive changes in the brain, chronic stress leads to long-term maladaptive changes that increase vulnerability to psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety and addiction. These two disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric disorders in the United States, and are typically chronic, disabling, and highly comorbid. Emerging evidence implicates a tiny brain region-the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST)-in the body's stress response and in anxiety and addiction. Rodent studies provide compelling evidence that the BNST plays a central role in sustained threat monitoring, a form of adaptive anxiety, and in the withdrawal and relapse stages of addiction; however, little is known about the role of BNST in humans. Here, we review current evidence for BNST function in humans, including evidence for a role in the production of both adaptive and maladaptive anxiety. We also review preliminary evidence of the role of BNST in addiction in humans. Together, these studies provide a foundation of knowledge about the role of BNST in adaptive anxiety and stress-related disorders. Although the field is in its infancy, future investigations of human BNST function have tremendous potential to illuminate mechanisms underlying stress-related disorders and identify novel neural targets for treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S N Avery
- Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - J A Clauss
- Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - J U Blackford
- Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
103
|
Oliva I, Wanat MJ. Ventral Tegmental Area Afferents and Drug-Dependent Behaviors. Front Psychiatry 2016; 7:30. [PMID: 27014097 PMCID: PMC4780106 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2016.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug-related behaviors in both humans and rodents are commonly thought to arise from aberrant learning processes. Preclinical studies demonstrate that the acquisition and expression of many drug-dependent behaviors involves the ventral tegmental area (VTA), a midbrain structure comprised of dopamine, GABA, and glutamate neurons. Drug experience alters the excitatory and inhibitory synaptic input onto VTA dopamine neurons, suggesting a critical role for VTA afferents in mediating the effects of drugs. In this review, we present evidence implicating the VTA in drug-related behaviors, highlight the diversity of neuronal populations in the VTA, and discuss the behavioral effects of selectively manipulating VTA afferents. Future experiments are needed to determine which VTA afferents and what neuronal populations in the VTA mediate specific drug-dependent behaviors. Further studies are also necessary for identifying the afferent-specific synaptic alterations onto dopamine and non-dopamine neurons in the VTA following drug administration. The identification of neural circuits and adaptations involved with drug-dependent behaviors can highlight potential neural targets for pharmacological and deep brain stimulation interventions to treat substance abuse disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Idaira Oliva
- Department of Biology, Neurosciences Institute, University of Texas at San Antonio , San Antonio, TX , USA
| | - Matthew J Wanat
- Department of Biology, Neurosciences Institute, University of Texas at San Antonio , San Antonio, TX , USA
| |
Collapse
|
104
|
Daniel SE, Rainnie DG. Stress Modulation of Opposing Circuits in the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis. Neuropsychopharmacology 2016; 41:103-25. [PMID: 26096838 PMCID: PMC4677121 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2015.178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2015] [Revised: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The anterior bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) has been recognized as a critical structure in regulating trait anxiety, contextual fear memory, and appetitive behavior, and is known to be sensitive to stress manipulations. As one of the most complex structures in the central nervous system, the intrinsic circuitry of the BNST is largely unknown; however, recent technological developments have allowed researchers to begin to untangle the internal connections of the nucleus. This research has revealed the possibility of two opposing circuits, one anxiolytic and one anxiogenic, within the BNST, the relative strength of which determines the behavioral outcome. The balance of these pathways is critical in maintaining a normal physiological and behavioral state; however, stress and drugs of abuse can differentially affect the opposing circuitry within the nucleus to shift the balance to a pathological state. In this review, we will examine how stress interacts with the neuromodulators, corticotropin-releasing factor, norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin to affect the circuitry of the BNST as well as how synaptic plasticity in the BNST is modulated by stress, resulting in long-lasting changes in the circuit and behavioral state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Daniel
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Donald G Rainnie
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
105
|
Incubation of Fear Is Regulated by TIP39 Peptide Signaling in the Medial Nucleus of the Amygdala. J Neurosci 2015; 35:12152-61. [PMID: 26338326 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1736-15.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Fear-related psychopathologies such as post-traumatic stress disorder are characterized by impaired extinction of fearful memories. Recent behavioral evidence suggests that the neuropeptide tuberoinfundibular peptide of 39 residues (TIP39), via its receptor, the parathyroid hormone 2 receptor (PTH2R), modulates fear memory. Here we examined the anatomical and cellular localization of TIP39 signaling that contributes to the increase in fear memory over time following a traumatic event, called fear memory incubation. Contextual freezing, a behavioral sign of fear memory, was significantly greater in PTH2R knock-out than wild-type male mice 2 and 4 weeks after a 2 s 1.5 mA footshock. PTH2R knock-out mice had significantly reduced c-Fos activation in the medial amygdala (MeA) following both footshock and fear recall, but had normal activation in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus and the amygdalar central nucleus compared with wild-type. We therefore investigated the contribution of MeA TIP39 signaling to fear incubation. Similar to the effect of global TIP39 signaling loss, blockade of TIP39 signaling in the MeA by lentivirus-mediated expression of a secreted PTH2R antagonist augmented fear incubation. Ablation of MeA PTH2R-expressing neurons also strengthened the fear incubation effect. Using the designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drug pharmacogenetic approach, transient inhibition of MeA PTH2R-expressing neurons before or immediately after the footshock, but not at the time of fear recall, enhanced fear incubation. Collectively, the findings demonstrate that TIP39 signaling within the MeA at the time of an aversive event regulates the increase over time in fear associated with the event context. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Fear-related psychopathologies such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are characterized by excessive responses to trauma-associated cues. Fear responses can increase over time without additional cue exposure or stress. This work shows that modulatory processes within the medial nucleus of the amygdala near the time of a traumatic event influence the strength of fear responses that occur much later. The modulatory processes include signaling by the neuropeptide TIP39 and neurons that express its receptor. These findings will help in the understanding of why traumatic events sometimes have severe psychological consequences. One implication is that targeting neuromodulation in the medial amygdala could potentially help prevent development of PTSD.
Collapse
|
106
|
Gafford GM, Ressler KJ. GABA and NMDA receptors in CRF neurons have opposing effects in fear acquisition and anxiety in central amygdala vs. bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Horm Behav 2015; 76:136-42. [PMID: 25888455 PMCID: PMC4844457 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
This article is part of a Special Issue "SBN 2014". Beginning with Vale and Colleagues in 1981, corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) also called corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) has repeatedly been identified as an important contributor to fear and anxiety behavior. These findings have proven useful to further our understanding of disorders that have significant fear-dysregulation, such as post-traumatic stress, as well as other stress- and anxiety-related disorders. Unfortunately, the data are not all in agreement. In particular the role of CRF in fear learning is controversial, with studies pointing to contradictory effects from CRF manipulation even within the same brain structure. Further, very few studies address the potentially promising role of CRF manipulation in fear extinction behavior. Here, we briefly review the role of CRF in anxiety, fear learning and extinction, focusing on recent cell-type and neurotransmitter-specific studies in the amygdala and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) that may help to synthesize the available data on the role of CRF in fear and anxiety-related behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgette M Gafford
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kerry J Ressler
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
107
|
Hammack SE, Todd TP, Kocho-Schellenberg M, Bouton ME. Role of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis in the acquisition of contextual fear at long or short context-shock intervals. Behav Neurosci 2015; 129:673-8. [PMID: 26348716 PMCID: PMC4586907 DOI: 10.1037/bne0000088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Rats received N-methyl-D-aspartate lesions of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) and then 10 aversive conditioning trials in which exposure to a context was paired with footshock. For half the animals, shock was presented 1 min after the onset of each context exposure; for the other half, shock was presented after 10 min. With the 1-min context duration, aversive conditioning (measured by freezing) was unaffected by BNST lesion. In contrast, at the 10-min duration, lesioned animals froze substantially less than sham controls. When 1-min-conditioned animals were left in the context for 10 min, freezing that was evident (though declining) throughout the test was not affected by the BNST lesion. When freezing over 10 min was similarly examined in the 10-min-conditioned animals, BNST lesions caused a deficit that was consistently evident over time. The results indicate that the BNST is involved in aversive conditioning to long-duration, but not merely contextual, conditional stimuli. Results may be less consistent with the view that BNST becomes activated after prolonged fear than the view that it is involved when a cue's onset has a remote temporal relation to shock.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Travis P Todd
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Vermont
| | | | - Mark E Bouton
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Vermont
| |
Collapse
|
108
|
Gungor NZ, Yamamoto R, Paré D. Optogenetic study of the projections from the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis to the central amygdala. J Neurophysiol 2015; 114:2903-11. [PMID: 26400259 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00677.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been proposed that the central amygdala (CeA), particularly its medial sector (CeM), generates brief fear responses to discrete conditioned cues, whereas the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) promotes long-lasting, anxiety-like states in response to more diffuse contingencies. Although it is believed that BNST-CeA interactions determine the transition between short- and long-duration responses, the nature of these interactions remains unknown. To shed light on this question, we used a double viral strategy to drive the expression of channelrhodopsin (ChR2) in BNST cells that project to CeA. Next, using patch-clamp recordings in vitro, we investigated the connectivity of infected cells to noninfected cells in BNST and compared the influence of BNST axons on neurons in the medial and lateral (CeL) parts of CeA. CeA-projecting BNST cells were concentrated in the anterolateral (AL) and anteroventral (AV) sectors of BNST. Dense plexuses of BNST axons were observed throughout CeA. In CeA and BNST, light-evoked excitatory postsynaptic potentials accounted for a minority of responses (0-9% of tested cells); inhibition prevailed. The incidence of inhibitory responses was higher in CeM than in CeL (66% and 43% of tested cells, respectively). Within BNST, the connections from CeA-projecting to non-CeA-targeting cells varied as a function of the BNST sector: 50% vs. 9% of tested cells exhibited light-evoked responses in BNST-AL vs. BNST-AV, respectively. Overall, these results suggest that via its projection to CeA, BNST exerts an inhibitory influence over cued fear and that BNST neurons projecting to CeA form contrasting connections in different BNST subnuclei.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nur Zeynep Gungor
- Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers University-Newark, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Ryo Yamamoto
- Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers University-Newark, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Denis Paré
- Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers University-Newark, Newark, New Jersey
| |
Collapse
|
109
|
Rosen JB, Asok A, Chakraborty T. The smell of fear: innate threat of 2,5-dihydro-2,4,5-trimethylthiazoline, a single molecule component of a predator odor. Front Neurosci 2015; 9:292. [PMID: 26379483 PMCID: PMC4548190 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2015.00292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last several years, the importance of understanding what innate threat and fear is, in addition to learning of threat and fear, has become evident. Odors from predators are ecologically relevant stimuli used by prey animals as warnings for the presence of danger. Of importance, these odors are not necessarily noxious or painful, but they have innate threat-like properties. This review summarizes the progress made on the behavioral and neuroanatomical fundamentals of innate fear of the predator odor, 2,5-dihydro-2,4,5-trimethylthiazoline (TMT), a component of fox feces. TMT is one of several single molecule components of predator odors that have been isolated in the last several years. Isolation of these single molecules has allowed for rapid advances in delineating the behavioral constraints and selective neuroanatomical pathways of predator odor induced fear. In naïve mice and rats, TMT induces a number of fear and defensive behaviors, including robust freezing, indicating it is an innate threat stimulus. However, there are a number of behavioral constraints that we do not yet understand. Similarly, while some of the early olfactory sensory pathways for TMT-induced fear are being delineated, the pathways from olfactory systems to emotional and motor output regions are less well understood. This review will focus on what we know and what we still need to learn about the behavior and neuroanatomy of TMT-induced fear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey B. Rosen
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of DelawareNewark, DE, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
110
|
Hurt RC, Garrett JC, Keifer OP, Linares A, Couling L, Speth RC, Ressler KJ, Marvar PJ. Angiotensin type 1a receptors on corticotropin-releasing factor neurons contribute to the expression of conditioned fear. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2015; 14:526-33. [PMID: 26257395 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Revised: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Although generally associated with cardiovascular regulation, angiotensin II receptor type 1a (AT1a R) blockade in mouse models and humans has also been associated with enhanced fear extinction and decreased post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity, respectively. The mechanisms mediating these effects remain unknown, but may involve alterations in the activities of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF)-expressing cells, which are known to be involved in fear regulation. To test the hypothesis that AT1a R signaling in CRFergic neurons is involved in conditioned fear expression, we generated and characterized a conditional knockout mouse strain with a deletion of the AT1a R gene from its CRF-releasing cells (CRF-AT1a R((-/-)) ). These mice exhibit normal baseline heart rate, blood pressure, anxiety and locomotion, and freeze at normal levels during acquisition of auditory fear conditioning. However, CRF-AT1a R((-/-)) mice exhibit less freezing than wild-type mice during tests of conditioned fear expression-an effect that may be caused by a decrease in the consolidation of fear memory. These results suggest that central AT1a R activity in CRF-expressing cells plays a role in the expression of conditioned fear, and identify CRFergic cells as a population on which AT1 R antagonists may act to modulate fear extinction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R C Hurt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine.,Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA
| | - J C Garrett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine.,Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA
| | - O P Keifer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine.,Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA
| | - A Linares
- Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL
| | - L Couling
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL
| | - R C Speth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL.,Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, College of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, DC
| | - K J Ressler
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine.,Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Bethesda, MD
| | - P J Marvar
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, The George Washington University School of Medical and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
111
|
Nagaya N, Acca GM, Maren S. Allopregnanolone in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis modulates contextual fear in rats. Front Behav Neurosci 2015; 9:205. [PMID: 26300750 PMCID: PMC4523814 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2015.00205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Trauma- and stress-related disorders are among the most common types of mental illness affecting the U.S. population. For many of these disorders, there is a striking sex difference in lifetime prevalence; for instance, women are twice as likely as men to be affected by posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Gonadal steroids and their metabolites have been implicated in sex differences in fear and anxiety. One example, allopregnanolone (ALLO), is a neuroactive metabolite of progesterone that allosterically enhances GABAA receptor activity and has anxiolytic effects. Like other ovarian hormones, it not only occurs at different levels in males and females but also fluctuates over the female reproductive cycle. One brain structure that may be involved in neuroactive steroid regulation of fear and anxiety is the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST). To explore this question, we examined the consequences of augmenting or reducing ALLO activity in the BNST on the expression of Pavlovian fear conditioning in rats. In Experiment 1, intra-BNST infusions of ALLO in male rats suppressed freezing behavior (a fear response) to the conditioned context, but did not influence freezing to a discrete tone conditioned stimulus (CS). In Experiment 2, intra-BNST infusion of either finasteride (FIN), an inhibitor of ALLO synthesis, or 17-phenyl-(3α,5α)-androst-16-en-3-ol, an ALLO antagonist, in female rats enhanced contextual freezing; neither treatment affected freezing to the tone CS. These findings support a role for ALLO in modulating contextual fear via the BNST and suggest that sex differences in fear and anxiety could arise from differential steroid regulation of BNST function. The susceptibility of women to disorders such as PTSD may be linked to cyclic declines in neuroactive steroid activity within fear circuitry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Nagaya
- Texas A&M University College Station, TX, USA ; Institute for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University College Station, TX, USA
| | - Gillian M Acca
- Institute for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University College Station, TX, USA
| | - Stephen Maren
- Texas A&M University College Station, TX, USA ; Institute for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University College Station, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
112
|
Reversible Inactivation of the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis Prevents Reinstatement But Not Renewal of Extinguished Fear. eNeuro 2015; 2:eN-NWR-0037-15. [PMID: 26464990 PMCID: PMC4586936 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0037-15.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Revised: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The extinction of conditioned fear is labile. For example, fear to an extinguished conditioned stimulus (CS) returns after presentation of an aversive stimulus ("reinstatement") or a change in context ("renewal"). Substantial research implicates the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) in the stress-induced relapse of extinguished behaviors, such as in instrumental drug seeking, but its role in the relapse of extinguished fear responses is not clear. Here, we explored the role of the BNST in both the reinstatement and renewal of fear, two forms of relapse that are differentially triggered by stress. In Experiment 1, rats received pairings of an auditory CS and footshock unconditioned stimulus (US) followed by an extinction procedure. After extinction, rats received an unsignaled US to reinstate fear to the extinguished CS. Twenty-four hours later, they were infused with either muscimol or vehicle into the BNST immediately prior to a CS retrieval test. In Experiment 2, rats were conditioned and extinguished in two distinct contexts. Twenty-four hours after extinction, the rats were infused with muscimol, NBQX, or vehicle immediately prior to a CS retrieval test in either the extinction context or a different (but familiar) context. In both experiments, freezing behavior served as the index of conditioned fear. The results revealed that BNST inactivation prevented reinstatement (Experiment 1), but not renewal (Experiment 2), of conditioned freezing to the extinguished CS. Hence, the BNST is critical for the reinstatement of extinguished fear in an aversive context, but not for the contextual retrieval processes that mediate fear renewal.
Collapse
|
113
|
Nagano Y, Kaneda K, Maruyama C, Ide S, Kato F, Minami M. Corticotropin-releasing factor enhances inhibitory synaptic transmission to type III neurons in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Neurosci Lett 2015; 600:56-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2015.05.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Revised: 05/18/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
114
|
The 3-second auditory conditioned stimulus is a more effective stressor than the 20-second auditory conditioned stimulus in male rats. Neuroscience 2015; 299:79-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.04.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
|
115
|
Shirayama Y, Ishima T, Oda Y, Okamura N, Iyo M, Hashimoto K. Opposite roles for neuropeptide S in the nucleus accumbens and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis in learned helplessness rats. Behav Brain Res 2015; 291:67-71. [PMID: 25986404 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The role of neuropeptide S (NPS) in depression remains unclear. We examined the antidepressant-like effects of NPS infusions into the shell or core regions of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and into the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) of learned helplessness (LH) rats (an animal model of depression). Infusions of NPS (10 pmol/side) into the NAc shell, but not the NAc core and BNST, exerted antidepressant-like effects in the LH paradigm. Implying that behavioral deficits could be improved in the conditioned avoidance test. Coinfusion of SHA68 (an NPS receptor antagonist, 100 pmol/side) with NPS into the NAc shell blocked these effects. In contrast, NPS receptor antagonism by SHA68 in the BNST induced antidepressant-like effects. Infusions of NPS into the NAc shell or SHA68 into the BNST did not produce memory deficits or locomotor activation in the passive avoidance and open field tests. These results suggest that excitatory and inhibitory actions by the NPS system are integral to the depression in LH animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yukihiko Shirayama
- Department of Psychiatry, Teikyo University Chiba Medical Center, Ichihara, Japan; Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Tamaki Ishima
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yasunori Oda
- Department of Psychiatry, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Naoe Okamura
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masaomi Iyo
- Department of Psychiatry, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kenji Hashimoto
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
116
|
Luyck K, Luyten L. Can electrical stimulation of the human bed nucleus of the stria terminalis reduce contextual anxiety? An unanswered question. Front Behav Neurosci 2015; 9:69. [PMID: 25852509 PMCID: PMC4362315 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2015.00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Luyck
- Experimental Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
| | - Laura Luyten
- Experimental Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium ; Psychology of Learning and Experimental Psychopathology, Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
117
|
Kash TL, Pleil KE, Marcinkiewcz CA, Lowery-Gionta EG, Crowley N, Mazzone C, Sugam J, Hardaway JA, McElligott ZA. Neuropeptide regulation of signaling and behavior in the BNST. Mol Cells 2015; 38:1-13. [PMID: 25475545 PMCID: PMC4314126 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2015.2261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent technical developments have transformed how neuroscientists can probe brain function. What was once thought to be difficult and perhaps impossible, stimulating a single set of long range inputs among many, is now relatively straight-forward using optogenetic approaches. This has provided an avalanche of data demonstrating causal roles for circuits in a variety of behaviors. However, despite the critical role that neuropeptide signaling plays in the regulation of behavior and physiology of the brain, there have been remarkably few studies demonstrating how peptide release is causally linked to behaviors. This is likely due to both the different time scale by which peptides act on and the modulatory nature of their actions. For example, while glutamate release can effectively transmit information between synapses in milliseconds, peptide release is potentially slower [See the excellent review by Van Den Pol on the time scales and mechanisms of release (van den Pol, 2012)] and it can only tune the existing signals via modulation. And while there have been some studies exploring mechanisms of release, it is still not as clearly known what is required for efficient peptide release. Furthermore, this analysis could be complicated by the fact that there are multiple peptides released, some of which may act in contrast. Despite these limitations, there are a number of groups making progress in this area. The goal of this review is to explore the role of peptide signaling in one specific structure, the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, that has proven to be a fertile ground for peptide action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas L. Kash
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
USA
| | - Kristen E. Pleil
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
USA
| | - Catherine A. Marcinkiewcz
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
USA
| | - Emily G. Lowery-Gionta
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
USA
| | - Nicole Crowley
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
USA
| | - Christopher Mazzone
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
USA
| | - Jonathan Sugam
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
USA
| | - J. Andrew Hardaway
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
USA
| | - Zoe A. McElligott
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
USA
| |
Collapse
|
118
|
Serotonin in fear conditioning processes. Behav Brain Res 2015; 277:68-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2014.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
119
|
Gutknecht L, Popp S, Waider J, Sommerlandt FMJ, Göppner C, Post A, Reif A, van den Hove D, Strekalova T, Schmitt A, Colaςo MBN, Sommer C, Palme R, Lesch KP. Interaction of brain 5-HT synthesis deficiency, chronic stress and sex differentially impact emotional behavior in Tph2 knockout mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2015; 232:2429-41. [PMID: 25716307 PMCID: PMC4480945 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-015-3879-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE While brain serotonin (5-HT) function is implicated in gene-by-environment interaction (GxE) impacting the vulnerability-resilience continuum in neuropsychiatric disorders, it remains elusive how the interplay of altered 5-HT synthesis and environmental stressors is linked to failure in emotion regulation. OBJECTIVE Here, we investigated the effect of constitutively impaired 5-HT synthesis on behavioral and neuroendocrine responses to unpredictable chronic mild stress (CMS) using a mouse model of brain 5-HT deficiency resulting from targeted inactivation of the tryptophan hydroxylase-2 (Tph2) gene. RESULTS Locomotor activity and anxiety- and depression-like behavior as well as conditioned fear responses were differentially affected by Tph2 genotype, sex, and CMS. Tph2 null mutants (Tph2(-/-)) displayed increased general metabolism, marginally reduced anxiety- and depression-like behavior but strikingly increased conditioned fear responses. Behavioral modifications were associated with sex-specific hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) system alterations as indicated by plasma corticosterone and fecal corticosterone metabolite concentrations. Tph2(-/-) males displayed increased impulsivity and high aggressiveness. Tph2(-/-) females displayed greater emotional reactivity to aversive conditions as reflected by changes in behaviors at baseline including increased freezing and decreased locomotion in novel environments. However, both Tph2(-/-) male and female mice were resilient to CMS-induced hyperlocomotion, while CMS intensified conditioned fear responses in a GxE-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that 5-HT mediates behavioral responses to environmental adversity by facilitating the encoding of stress effects leading to increased vulnerability for negative emotionality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lise Gutknecht
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany ,Department of Neurobiology, Functional Genomic Institute, CNRS /INSERM UMR 5203, University of Montpellier, 34094 Montpellier, France
| | - Sandy Popp
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Jonas Waider
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Frank M. J. Sommerlandt
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Göppner
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Antonia Post
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Reif
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Daniel van den Hove
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Tatyana Strekalova
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Angelika Schmitt
- Center of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics, and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Claudia Sommer
- Department of Neurology, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Rupert Palme
- Department of Biomedical Sciences/Physiology, Pathophysiology and Experimental Endocrinology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Klaus-Peter Lesch
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany ,Department of Translational Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
120
|
Lezak KR, Roman CW, Braas KM, Schutz KC, Falls WA, Schulkin J, May V, Hammack SE. Regulation of bed nucleus of the stria terminalis PACAP expression by stress and corticosterone. J Mol Neurosci 2014; 54:477-84. [PMID: 24614974 PMCID: PMC4162870 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-014-0269-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes for pituitary adenylyl cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) and the PAC1 receptor have been associated with stress-related psychiatric disorders. Although, from recent work, we have argued that stress-induced PACAP expression in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) may mediate stress-related psychopathology, it is unclear whether stress-induced increases in BNST PACAP expression require acute or repeated stressor exposure and whether increased BNST PACAP expression is related to stress-induced increases in circulating glucocorticoids. In the current work, we have used real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to assess transcript expression in brain punches from rats after stressor exposure paradigms or corticosterone injection. BNST PACAP and PAC1 receptor transcript expression was increased only after 7 days of repeated stressor exposure; no changes in transcript levels were observed 2 or 24 hours after a single-restraint session. Moreover, repeated corticosterone treatment for 7 days was not sufficient to reliably increase BNST PACAP transcript levels, suggesting that stress-induced elevations in corticosterone may not be the primary drivers of BNST PACAP expression. These results may help clarify the mechanisms and temporal processes that underlie BNST PACAP induction for intervention in stress-related anxiety disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly R Lezak
- Department of Psychology, University of Vermont, 2 Colchester Avenue, John Dewey Hall, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
121
|
Janitzky K, Peine A, Kröber A, Yanagawa Y, Schwegler H, Roskoden T. Increased CRF mRNA expression in the sexually dimorphic BNST of male but not female GAD67 mice and TMT predator odor stress effects upon spatial memory retrieval. Behav Brain Res 2014; 272:141-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2014.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2014] [Revised: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
|
122
|
The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis is critical for anxiety-related behavior evoked by CO2 and acidosis. J Neurosci 2014; 34:10247-55. [PMID: 25080586 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1680-14.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Carbon dioxide (CO2) inhalation lowers brain pH and induces anxiety, fear, and panic responses in humans. In mice, CO2 produces freezing and avoidance behavior that has been suggested to depend on the amygdala. However, a recent study in humans with bilateral amygdala lesions revealed that CO2 can trigger fear and panic even in the absence of amygdalae, suggesting the importance of extra-amygdalar brain structures. Because the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) contributes to fear- and anxiety-related behaviors and expresses acid-sensing ion channel-1A (ASIC1A), we hypothesized that the BNST plays an important role in CO2-evoked fear-related behaviors in mice. We found that BNST lesions decreased both CO2-evoked freezing and CO2-conditioned place avoidance. In addition, we found that CO2 inhalation caused BNST acidosis and that acidosis was sufficient to depolarize BNST neurons and induce freezing behavior; both responses depended on ASIC1A. Finally, disrupting Asic1a specifically in the BNST reduced CO2-evoked freezing, whereas virus-vector-mediated expression of ASIC1A in the BNST of Asic1a(-/-) and Asic1a(+/+) mice increased CO2-evoked freezing. Together, these findings identify the BNST as an extra-amygdalar fear circuit structure important in CO2-evoked fear-related behavior.
Collapse
|
123
|
McCue MG, LeDoux JE, Cain CK. Medial amygdala lesions selectively block aversive pavlovian-instrumental transfer in rats. Front Behav Neurosci 2014; 8:329. [PMID: 25278858 PMCID: PMC4166994 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2014.00329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pavlovian conditioned stimuli (CSs) play an important role in the reinforcement and motivation of instrumental active avoidance (AA). Conditioned threats can also invigorate ongoing AA responding [aversive Pavlovian-instrumental transfer (PIT)]. The neural circuits mediating AA are poorly understood, although lesion studies suggest that lateral, basal, and central amygdala nuclei, as well as infralimbic prefrontal cortex, make key, and sometimes opposing, contributions. We recently completed an extensive analysis of brain c-Fos expression in good vs. poor avoiders following an AA test (Martinez et al., 2013, Learning and Memory). This analysis identified medial amygdala (MeA) as a potentially important region for Pavlovian motivation of instrumental actions. MeA is known to mediate defensive responding to innate threats as well as social behaviors, but its role in mediating aversive Pavlovian-instrumental interactions is unknown. We evaluated the effect of MeA lesions on Pavlovian conditioning, Sidman two-way AA conditioning (shuttling) and aversive PIT in rats. Mild footshocks served as the unconditioned stimulus in all conditioning phases. MeA lesions had no effect on AA but blocked the expression of aversive PIT and 22 kHz ultrasonic vocalizations in the AA context. Interestingly, MeA lesions failed to affect Pavlovian freezing to discrete threats but reduced freezing to contextual threats when assessed outside of the AA chamber. These findings differentiate MeA from lateral and central amygdala, as lesions of these nuclei disrupt Pavlovian freezing and aversive PIT, but have opposite effects on AA performance. Taken together, these results suggest that MeA plays a selective role in the motivation of instrumental avoidance by general or uncertain Pavlovian threats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret G McCue
- Emotional Brain Institute, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research , Orangeburg, NY , USA
| | - Joseph E LeDoux
- Emotional Brain Institute, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research , Orangeburg, NY , USA ; Center for Neural Science, New York University , New York, NY , USA
| | - Christopher K Cain
- Emotional Brain Institute, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research , Orangeburg, NY , USA ; Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, New York University Medical School , New York, NY , USA
| |
Collapse
|
124
|
Baas JMP, Klumpers F, Mantione MH, Figee M, Vulink NC, Schuurman PR, Mazaheri A, Denys D. No impact of deep brain stimulation on fear-potentiated startle in obsessive-compulsive disorder. Front Behav Neurosci 2014; 8:305. [PMID: 25249953 PMCID: PMC4158815 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2014.00305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Accepted: 08/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the ventral internal capsule is effective in treating therapy refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Given the close proximity of the stimulation site to the stria terminalis (BNST), we hypothesized that the striking decrease in anxiety symptoms following DBS could be the result of the modulation of contextual anxiety. However, the effect of DBS in this region on contextual anxiety is as of yet unknown. Thus, the current study investigated the effect of DBS on contextual anxiety in an experimental threat of shock paradigm. Eight patients with DBS treatment for severe OCD were tested in a double-blind crossover design with randomly assigned 2-week periods of active and sham stimulation. DBS resulted in significant decrease of obsessive-compulsive symptoms, anxiety, and depression. However, even though the threat manipulation resulted in a clear context-potentiated startle effect, none of the parameters derived from the startle recordings was modulated by the DBS. This suggests that DBS in the ventral internal capsule is effective in treating anxiety symptoms of OCD without modulating the startle circuitry. We hypothesize that the anxiety symptoms present in OCD are likely distinct from the pathological brain circuits in defensive states of other anxiety disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna M P Baas
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Utrecht University , Utrecht , Netherlands ; Helmholtz Institute , Utrecht , Netherlands
| | - Floris Klumpers
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University , Nijmegen , Netherlands
| | - Mariska H Mantione
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , Netherlands
| | - Martijn Figee
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , Netherlands
| | - Nienke C Vulink
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , Netherlands
| | - P Richard Schuurman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , Netherlands
| | - Ali Mazaheri
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , Netherlands
| | - Damiaan Denys
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , Netherlands ; Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences , Amsterdam , Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
125
|
Rainnie DG, Hazra R, Dabrowska J, Guo JD, Li CC, Dewitt S, Muly EC. Distribution and functional expression of Kv4 family α subunits and associated KChIP β subunits in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. J Comp Neurol 2014; 522:609-25. [PMID: 24037673 DOI: 10.1002/cne.23435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2012] [Revised: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Regulation of BNSTALG neuronal firing activity is tightly regulated by the opposing actions of the fast outward potassium current, IA , mediated by α subunits of the Kv4 family of ion channels, and the transient inward calcium current, IT . Together, these channels play a critical role in regulating the latency to action potential onset, duration, and frequency, as well as dendritic back-propagation and synaptic plasticity. Previously we have shown that Type I-III BNSTALG neurons express mRNA transcripts for each of the Kv4 α subunits. However, the biophysical properties of native IA channels are critically dependent on the formation of macromolecular complexes of Kv4 channels with a family of chaperone proteins, the potassium channel-interacting proteins (KChIP1-4). Here we used a multidisciplinary approach to investigate the expression and function of Kv4 channels and KChIPs in neurons of the rat BNSTALG . Using immunofluorescence we demonstrated the pattern of localization of Kv4.2, Kv4.3, and KChIP1-4 proteins in the BNSTALG . Moreover, our single-cell reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (scRT-PCR) studies revealed that mRNA transcripts for Kv4.2, Kv4.3, and all four KChIPs were differentially expressed in Type I-III BNSTALG neurons. Furthermore, immunoelectron microscopy revealed that Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 channels were primarily localized to the dendrites and spines of BNSTALG neurons, and are thus ideally situated to modulate synaptic transmission. Consistent with this observation, in vitro patch clamp recordings showed that reducing postsynaptic IA in these neurons lowered the threshold for long-term potentiation (LTP) induction. These results are discussed in relation to potential modulation of IA channels by chronic stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donald G Rainnie
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
126
|
Yoshida M, Takayanagi Y, Onaka T. The medial amygdala-medullary PrRP-synthesizing neuron pathway mediates neuroendocrine responses to contextual conditioned fear in male rodents. Endocrinology 2014; 155:2996-3004. [PMID: 24877622 PMCID: PMC4207914 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Fear responses play evolutionarily beneficial roles, although excessive fear memory can induce inappropriate fear expression observed in posttraumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, and phobia. To understand the neural machineries that underlie these disorders, it is important to clarify the neural pathways of fear responses. Contextual conditioned fear induces freezing behavior and neuroendocrine responses. Considerable evidence indicates that the central amygdala plays an essential role in expression of freezing behavior after contextual conditioned fear. On the other hand, mechanisms of neuroendocrine responses remain to be clarified. The medial amygdala (MeA), which is activated after contextual conditioned fear, was lesioned bilaterally by infusion of N-methyl-d-aspartate after training of fear conditioning. Plasma oxytocin, ACTH, and prolactin concentrations were significantly increased after contextual conditioned fear in sham-lesioned rats. In MeA-lesioned rats, these neuroendocrine responses but not freezing behavior were significantly impaired compared with those in sham-lesioned rats. In contrast, the magnitudes of neuroendocrine responses after exposure to novel environmental stimuli were not significantly different in MeA-lesioned rats and sham-lesioned rats. Contextual conditioned fear activated prolactin-releasing peptide (PrRP)-synthesizing neurons in the medulla oblongata. In MeA-lesioned rats, the percentage of PrRP-synthesizing neurons activated after contextual conditioned fear was significantly decreased. Furthermore, neuroendocrine responses after contextual conditioned fear disappeared in PrRP-deficient mice. Our findings suggest that the MeA-medullary PrRP-synthesizing neuron pathway plays an important role in neuroendocrine responses to contextual conditioned fear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masahide Yoshida
- Division of Brain and Neurophysiology, Department of Physiology, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi-ken 329-0498, Japan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
127
|
Avery SN, Clauss JA, Winder DG, Woodward N, Heckers S, Blackford JU. BNST neurocircuitry in humans. Neuroimage 2014; 91:311-23. [PMID: 24444996 PMCID: PMC4214684 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2014.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Revised: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Anxiety and addiction disorders are two of the most common mental disorders in the United States, and are typically chronic, disabling, and comorbid. Emerging evidence suggests the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) mediates both anxiety and addiction through connections with other brain regions, including the amygdala and nucleus accumbens. Although BNST structural connections have been identified in rodents and a limited number of structural connections have been verified in non-human primates, BNST connections have yet to be described in humans. Neuroimaging is a powerful tool for identifying structural and functional circuits in vivo. In this study, we examined BNST structural and functional connectivity in a large sample of humans. The BNST showed structural and functional connections with multiple subcortical regions, including limbic, thalamic, and basal ganglia structures, confirming structural findings in rodents. We describe two novel connections in the human brain that have not been previously reported in rodents or non-human primates, including a structural connection with the temporal pole, and a functional connection with the paracingulate gyrus. The findings of this study provide a map of the BNST's structural and functional connectivity across the brain in healthy humans. In large part, the BNST neurocircuitry in humans is similar to the findings from rodents and non-human primates; however, several connections are unique to humans. Future explorations of BNST neurocircuitry in anxiety and addiction disorders have the potential to reveal novel mechanisms underlying these disabling psychiatric illnesses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne N Avery
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Psychiatric Neuroimaging Program, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
| | - Jacqueline A Clauss
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Psychiatric Neuroimaging Program, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
| | - Danny G Winder
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Neil Woodward
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Psychiatric Neuroimaging Program, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37212, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
| | - Stephan Heckers
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Psychiatric Neuroimaging Program, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37212, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
| | - Jennifer Urbano Blackford
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Psychiatric Neuroimaging Program, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37212, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37212, USA; Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37240, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
128
|
Myers B, McKlveen JM, Herman JP. Glucocorticoid actions on synapses, circuits, and behavior: implications for the energetics of stress. Front Neuroendocrinol 2014; 35:180-196. [PMID: 24361584 PMCID: PMC4422101 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2013.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2013] [Revised: 12/02/2013] [Accepted: 12/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Environmental stimuli that signal real or potential threats to homeostasis lead to glucocorticoid secretion by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis. Glucocorticoids promote energy redistribution and are critical for survival and adaptation. This adaptation requires the integration of multiple systems and engages key limbic-neuroendocrine circuits. Consequently, glucocorticoids have profound effects on synaptic physiology, circuit regulation of stress responsiveness, and, ultimately, behavior. While glucocorticoids initiate adaptive processes that generate energy for coping, prolonged or inappropriate glucocorticoid secretion becomes deleterious. Inappropriate processing of stressful information may lead to energetic drive that does not match environmental demand, resulting in risk factors for pathology. Thus, dysregulation of the HPA axis may promote stress-related illnesses (e.g. depression, PTSD). This review summarizes the latest developments in central glucocorticoid actions on synaptic, neuroendocrine, and behavioral regulation. Additionally, these findings will be discussed in terms of the energetic integration of stress and the importance of context-specific regulation of glucocorticoids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brent Myers
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Jessica M McKlveen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
| | - James P Herman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
| |
Collapse
|
129
|
deCampo DM, Fudge JL. Amygdala projections to the lateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis in the macaque: comparison with ventral striatal afferents. J Comp Neurol 2014; 521:3191-216. [PMID: 23696521 DOI: 10.1002/cne.23340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Revised: 03/22/2013] [Accepted: 03/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The lateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BSTL) is involved in mediating anxiety-related behaviors to sustained aversive stimuli. The BSTL forms part of the central extended amygdala, a continuum composed of the BSTL, the amygdala central nucleus, and cell columns running between the two. The central subdivision (BSTLcn) and the juxtacapsular subdivision (BSTLJ) are two BSTL regions that lie above the anterior commissure, near the ventral striatum. The amygdala, a heterogeneous structure that encodes emotional salience, projects to both the BSTL and ventral striatum. We placed small injections of retrograde tracers into the BSTL, focusing on the BSTLcn and BSTLJ, and analyzed the distribution of labeled cells in amygdala subregions. We compared this to the pattern of labeled cells following injections into the ventral striatum. All retrograde results were confirmed by anterograde studies. We found that the BSTLcn receives stronger amygdala inputs relative to the BSTLJ. Furthermore, the BSTLcn is defined by inputs from the corticoamygdaloid transition area and central nucleus, while the BSTLJ receives inputs mainly from the magnocellular accessory basal and basal nucleus. In the ventral striatum, the dorsomedial shell receives inputs that are similar, but not identical, to inputs to the BSTLcn. In contrast, amygdala projections to the ventral shell/core are similar to projections to the BSTLJ. These findings indicate that the BSTLcn and BSTLJ receive distinct amygdala afferent inputs and that the dorsomedial shell is a transition zone with the BSTLcn, while the ventral shell/core are transition zones with the BSTLJ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M deCampo
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York 14642, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
130
|
CGRP inhibits neurons of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis: implications for the regulation of fear and anxiety. J Neurosci 2014; 34:60-5. [PMID: 24381268 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3473-13.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is thought to generate anxiety-like states via its projections to autonomic and neuroendocrine regulatory structures of the brain. However, because most BNST cells are GABAergic, they are expected to inhibit target neurons. In contrast with this, infusion of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) into BNST was reported to potentiate anxiety while activating BNST targets. The present study aimed to shed light on this paradox. The CGRP innervation of BNST originates in the pontine parabrachial nucleus and targets its anterolateral sector (BNST-AL). Thus, we investigated the effects of CGRP on BNST-AL neurons using patch recordings in vitro in male rats. CGRP did not alter the passive properties of BNST-AL cells but increased the amplitude of IPSPs evoked by stimulation of the stria terminalis (ST). However, IPSP paired-pulse ratios were unchanged by CGRP, and there was no correlation between IPSP potentiation and variance, suggesting that CGRP acts postsynaptically. Consistent with this, CGRP hyperpolarized the GABA-A reversal of BNST-AL cells. These results indicate that CGRP increases ST-evoked GABA-A IPSPs and hyperpolarizes their reversal potential through a postsynaptic change in Cl(-) homeostasis. Overall, our findings suggest that CGRP potentiates anxiety-like behaviors and increases neural activity in BNST targets, by inhibiting BNST-AL cells, supporting the conclusion that BNST-AL exerts anxiolytic effects.
Collapse
|
131
|
Kiyokawa Y, Hiroshima S, Takeuchi Y, Mori Y. Social buffering reduces male rats' behavioral and corticosterone responses to a conditioned stimulus. Horm Behav 2014; 65:114-8. [PMID: 24361196 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2013.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2013] [Revised: 12/09/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In social species, the presence of an affiliative same-sex conspecific ameliorates acute stress responses in threatening conditions. We previously found that the presence of an unfamiliar male rat separated by a wire mesh barrier blocks the behavioral responses and Fos expression in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) in a male subject rat that had previously been exposed to an auditory conditioned stimulus (CS) paired with foot shocks. Based on the Fos expression in the PVN, we hypothesized that the presence of a conspecific ameliorated the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activation and induced social buffering of conditioned fear responses. The direct evidence for this hypothesis, however, is still lacking. To clarify this point, we exposed fear-conditioned and non-conditioned subjects to the CS either alone or with a conspecific separated by a wire mesh barrier. When the fear-conditioned subject alone was re-exposed to the CS, it exhibited increased freezing, decreased sniffing, and elevated corticosterone levels. In contrast, the presence of the conspecific suppressed these behavioral and HPA axis responses to a level similar to those observed in the non-conditioned subjects. These results suggest that the presence of a conspecific suppressed the behavioral responses and HPA axis activation to the CS. The present results provide direct evidence for the existence of social buffering of conditioned fear responses in male rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Kiyokawa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan; ERATO Touhara Chemosensory Signal Project, JST, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.
| | - Shunya Hiroshima
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yukari Takeuchi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yuji Mori
- Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
132
|
Febo M, Ferris CF. Oxytocin and vasopressin modulation of the neural correlates of motivation and emotion: results from functional MRI studies in awake rats. Brain Res 2014; 1580:8-21. [PMID: 24486356 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2014.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2013] [Revised: 11/13/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin and vasopressin modulate a range of species typical behavioral functions that include social recognition, maternal-infant attachment, and modulation of memory, offensive aggression, defensive fear reactions, and reward seeking. We have employed novel functional magnetic resonance mapping techniques in awake rats to explore the roles of these neuropeptides in the maternal and non-maternal brain. Results from the functional neuroimaging studies that are summarized here have directly and indirectly confirmed and supported previous findings. Oxytocin is released within the lactating rat brain during suckling stimulation and activates specific subcortical networks in the maternal brain. Both vasopressin and oxytocin modulate brain regions involved unconditioned fear, processing of social stimuli and the expression of agonistic behaviors. Across studies there are relatively consistent brain networks associated with internal motivational drives and emotional states that are modulated by oxytocin and vasopressin. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Oxytocin and Social Behav.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Febo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
| | - Craig F Ferris
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
133
|
Sink KS, Davis M, Walker DL. CGRP antagonist infused into the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis impairs the acquisition and expression of context but not discretely cued fear. Learn Mem 2013; 20:730-9. [PMID: 24255102 PMCID: PMC3834624 DOI: 10.1101/lm.032482.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) infusions into the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) evoke increases in startle amplitude and increases in anxiety-like behavior in the plus maze. Conversely, intra-BNST infusions of the CGRP antagonist CGRP8–37 block unconditioned startle increases produced by fox odor. Here we evaluate the contribution of CGRP signaling in the BNST to the development and expression of learned fear. Rats received five pairings of a 3.7-sec light and footshock and were tested for fear-potentiated startle one or more days later. Neither pre-training (Experiment 1) nor pre-test (Experiment 2) infusions of the CGRP antagonist CGRP8–37 (800 ng/BNST) disrupted fear-potentiated startle to the 3.7-sec visual cue. However, in both experiments, CGRP8–37 infusions disrupted baseline startle increases that occurred when rats were tested in the same context as that in which they previously received footshock (Experiment 3). Intra-BNST CGRP8–37 infusions did not disrupt shock-evoked corticosterone release (Experiment 4). These data confirm previous findings implicating BNST CGRP receptors in fear and anxiety. They extend those results by showing an important contribution to learned fear and, specifically, to fear evoked by a shock-associated context rather than a discrete cue. This pattern is consistent with previous models of BNST function that have posited a preferential role in sustained anxiety as opposed to phasic fear responses. More generally, the results add to a growing body of evidence indicating behaviorally, possibly clinically, relevant modulation of BNST function by neuroactive peptides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly S Sink
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30329, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
134
|
Haufler D, Nagy FZ, Pare D. Neuronal correlates of fear conditioning in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Learn Mem 2013; 20:633-41. [PMID: 24131794 PMCID: PMC3799415 DOI: 10.1101/lm.031799.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Lesion and inactivation studies indicate that the central amygdala (CeA) participates in the expression of cued and contextual fear, whereas the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is only involved in the latter. The basis for this functional dissociation is unclear because CeA and BNST form similar connections with the amygdala and brainstem fear effectors. To address this question, we recorded neurons in the anterolateral (AL) and anteromedial (AM) regions of BNST in rats subjected to auditory fear conditioning. During habituation, few neurons were responsive to the conditioned stimulus (CS). After fear conditioning, 20% of BNST-AL neurons developed inhibitory responses to the CS. In BNST-AM, 26% of neurons developed positive CS responses. The behavior of BNST-AM and -AL neurons during contextual fear paralleled their CS responsiveness: More BNST-AM neurons fired at higher rates during contextual freezing than movement, whereas the opposite was seen in BNST-AL cells. These findings point to regional differences in the activity of BNST-AL and -AM in relation to learned fear, raising the possibility that they exert opposite influences on fear output networks. However, given the similar behavior of BNST-AM and -AL neurons in relation to cued and contextual fear, it remains unclear why lesion and inactivation of BNST differentially affect these two types of fear. Either neurons in a different BNST sector, not explored here, show a different activity profile in relation to the two forms of fear or inactivation/lesion studies inadvertently affected a structure adjacent to BNST, which is involved in contextual fear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darrell Haufler
- Center for Molecular & Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers State University, Newark, New Jersey 07102, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
135
|
Sparta DR, Jennings JH, Ung RL, Stuber GD. Optogenetic strategies to investigate neural circuitry engaged by stress. Behav Brain Res 2013; 255:19-25. [PMID: 23684554 PMCID: PMC4415682 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2013] [Revised: 04/24/2013] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Optogenetic techniques have given researchers unprecedented access to the function of discrete neural circuit elements and have been instrumental in the identification of novel brain pathways that become dysregulated in neuropsychiatric diseases. For example, stress is integrally linked to the manifestation and pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric illness, including anxiety, addiction and depression. Due to the heterogeneous populations of genetically and neurochemically distinct neurons in areas such as the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), as well as their substantial number of projections, our understanding of how neural circuits become disturbed after stress has been limited. Using optogenetic tools, we are now able to selectively isolate distinct neural circuits that contribute to these disorders and perturb these circuits in vivo, which in turn may lead to the normalization of maladaptive behavior. This review will focus on current optogenetic strategies to identify, manipulate, and record from discrete neural circuit elements in vivo as well as highlight recent optogenetic studies that have been utilized to parcel out BNST function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis R Sparta
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
136
|
Effects of hypocretin and norepinephrine interaction in bed nucleus of the stria terminalis on arterial pressure. Neuroscience 2013; 255:278-91. [PMID: 24070630 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2013] [Revised: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Forebrain neuronal circuits containing hypocretin-1 (hcrt-1) and norepinephrine (NE) are important components of central arousal-related processes. Recently, these two systems have been shown to have an overlapping distribution within the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST), a limbic structure activated by stressful challenges, and which functions to adjust arterial pressure (AP) and heart rate (HR) to the stressor. However, whether hcrt-1 and NE interact in BST to alter cardiovascular function is unknown. Experiments were done in urethane-α-chloralose anesthetized, paralyzed, and artificially ventilated male Wistar rats to investigate the effect of hcrt-1 and NE on the cardiovascular responses elicited by l-glutamate (Glu) stimulation of BST neurons. Microinjections of hcrt-1, NE or tyramine into BST attenuated the decrease in AP and HR to Glu stimulation of BST. Additionally, combined injections of hcrt-1 with NE or tyramine did not elicit a greater attenuation than either compound alone. Furthermore, injections into BST of the α2-adrenergic receptor (α2-AR) antagonist yohimbine, but not the α1-AR antagonist 2-{[β-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl]aminomethyl}-1-tetralone hydrochloride, blocked both the hcrt-1 and NE-induced inhibition of the BST cardiovascular depressors responses. Finally, injections into BST of the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline, but not the GABAB receptor antagonist phaclofen, blocked the hcrt-1 and NE attenuation of the BST Glu-induced depressor and bradycardia responses. These data suggest that hcrt-1 effects in BST are mediated by NE neurons, and hcrt-1 likely acts to facilitate the synaptic release of NE. NE neurons, acting through α2-AR may activate Gabaergic neurons in BST, which in turn through the activation of GABAA receptors inhibit a BST sympathoinhibitory pathway. Taken together, these data suggest that hcrt-1 pathways to BST through their interaction with NE and Gabaergic neurons may function in the coordination of cardiovascular responses associated with different behavioral states.
Collapse
|
137
|
Burghardt N, Bauer E. Acute and chronic effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatment on fear conditioning: Implications for underlying fear circuits. Neuroscience 2013; 247:253-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.05.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2013] [Revised: 05/14/2013] [Accepted: 05/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
138
|
Diamantopoulou A, Raftogianni A, Stamatakis A, Tzanoulinou S, Oitzl MS, Stylianopoulou F. Denial or receipt of expected reward through maternal contact during the neonatal period differentially affect the development of the rat amygdala and program its function in adulthood in a sex-dimorphic way. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2013; 38:1757-71. [PMID: 23490071 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2013.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Revised: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 02/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Early experiences affect brain development and thus adult brain function and behavior. We employed a novel early experience model involving denial (DER) or receipt of expected reward (RER) through maternal contact in a T-maze. Exposure to the DER experience for the first time, on postnatal day 10 (PND10), was stressful for the pups, as assessed by increased corticosterone levels, and was accompanied by enhanced activation of the amygdala, as assessed by c-Fos immunohistochemistry. Re-exposure to the same experience on days 11-13 led to adaptation. Corticosterone levels of the RER pups did not differ on the first and last days of training (PND10 and 13 respectively), while on PND11 and 12 they were lower than those of the CTR. The RER experience did not lead to activation of the amygdala. Males and females exposed as neonates to the DER or RER experience, and controls were tested as adults in the open field task (OF), the elevated plus maze (EPM), and cued and contextual fear conditioning (FC). No group differences were found in the EPM, while in the OF, both male and female DER animals, showed increased rearings, compared to the controls. In the FC, the RER males had increased memory for both context and cued conditioned fear, than either the DER or CTR. On the other hand, the DER males, but not females showed an increased activation, as assessed by c-Fos expression, of the amygdala following fear conditioning. Our results show that the DER early experience programmed the function of the adult amygdala as to render it more sensitive to fearful stimuli. This programming by the DER early experience could be mediated through epigenetic modifications of histones leading to chromatin opening, as indicated by our results showing increased levels of phospho-acetyl-histone-3 in the amygdala of the DER males.
Collapse
|
139
|
Davis M, Walker DL. Role of bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and amygdala AMPA receptors in the development and expression of context conditioning and sensitization of startle by prior shock. Brain Struct Funct 2013; 219:1969-82. [PMID: 23934654 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-013-0616-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
A core symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder is hyper-arousal-manifest in part by increases in the amplitude of the acoustic startle reflex. Gewirtz et al. (Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 22:625-648, 1998) found that, in rats, persistent shock-induced startle increases were prevented by pre-test electrolytic lesions of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST). We used reversible inactivation to determine if similar effects reflect actions on (a) BNST neurons themselves versus fibers-of-passage, (b) the development versus expression of such increases, and (c) associative fear versus non-associative sensitization. Twenty-four hours after the last of three shock sessions, startle was markedly enhanced when rats were tested in a non-shock context. These increases decayed over the course of several days. Decay was unaffected by context exposure, and elevated startle was restored when rats were tested for the first time in the original shock context. Thus, both associative and non-associative components could be measured under different conditions. Pre-test intra-BNST infusions of the AMPA receptor antagonist NBQX (3 μg/side) blocked the non-associative (as did infusions into the basolateral amygdala) but not the associative component, whereas pre-shock infusions disrupted both. NBQX did not affect baseline startle or shock reactivity. These results indicate that AMPA receptors in or very near to the BNST are critical for the expression and development of non-associative shock-induced startle sensitization, and also for context fear conditioning, but not context fear expression. More generally, they suggest that treatments targeting the BNST may be clinically useful for treating trauma-related hyper-arousal and perhaps for retarding its development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Davis
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, 954 Gatewood Rd NE (Yerkes Neuroscience Bldg), Rm. 5214, Atlanta, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
140
|
Park J, Bucher ES, Fontillas K, Owesson-White C, Ariansen JL, Carelli RM, Wightman RM. Opposing catecholamine changes in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis during intracranial self-stimulation and its extinction. Biol Psychiatry 2013; 74:69-76. [PMID: 23260335 PMCID: PMC3609919 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2012.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2012] [Revised: 10/24/2012] [Accepted: 11/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While studies suggest that both dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmission support reinforcement learning, the role of dopamine has been emphasized. As a result, little is known about norepinephrine signaling during reward learning and extinction. Both dopamine and norepinephrine projections innervate distinct regions of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), a structure that mediates behavioral and autonomic responses to stress and anxiety. We investigated whether norepinephrine release in the ventral BNST (vBNST) and dopamine release in the dorsolateral BNST (dlBNT) correlate with reward learning during intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS). METHODS Using fast-scan cyclic voltammetry, norepinephrine concentration changes in the vBNST (n = 12 animals) during ICSS were compared with dopamine changes in the dlBNST (n = 7 animals) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) (n = 5 animals). Electrical stimulation was in the ventral tegmental area/substantia nigra region. RESULTS Whereas dopamine release was evoked by presentation of a cue predicting reward availability in both dlBNST and NAc, cue-evoked norepinephrine release did not occur in the vBNST. Release of both catecholamines was evoked by the electrical stimulation. Extracellular changes in norepinephrine were also studied during extinction of ICSS and compared with results obtained for dopamine. During extinction of ICSS, norepinephrine release in the vBNST occurred at the time where the stimulation was anticipated, whereas dopamine release transiently decreased. CONCLUSIONS The data demonstrate that norepinephrine release in the vBNST differs from dopamine release in the dlBNST and the NAc in that it signals the absence of reward rather than responding to reward predictive cues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinwoo Park
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, USA
| | - Elizabeth S. Bucher
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, USA
| | - Khristy Fontillas
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, USA
| | - Catarina Owesson-White
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Ariansen
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, USA
| | - Regina M. Carelli
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, USA
,Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, USA
| | - R. Mark Wightman
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, USA
,Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, USA
,Corresponding author: R. Mark Wightman, Ph.D., Department of Chemistry, CB # 3290, Venable Hall, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-3290, USA, Tel : +1 (919) 962-1472, Fax : +1 (919) 962-2388,
| |
Collapse
|
141
|
Nieh EH, Kim SY, Namburi P, Tye KM. Optogenetic dissection of neural circuits underlying emotional valence and motivated behaviors. Brain Res 2013; 1511:73-92. [PMID: 23142759 PMCID: PMC4099056 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2012.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2012] [Revised: 11/01/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The neural circuits underlying emotional valence and motivated behaviors are several synapses away from both defined sensory inputs and quantifiable motor outputs. Electrophysiology has provided us with a suitable means for observing neural activity during behavior, but methods for controlling activity for the purpose of studying motivated behaviors have been inadequate: electrical stimulation lacks cellular specificity and pharmacological manipulation lacks temporal resolution. The recent emergence of optogenetic tools provides a new means for establishing causal relationships between neural activity and behavior. Optogenetics, the use of genetically-encodable light-activated proteins, permits the modulation of specific neural circuit elements with millisecond precision. The ability to control individual cell types, and even projections between distal regions, allows us to investigate functional connectivity in a causal manner. The greatest consequence of controlling neural activity with finer precision has been the characterization of individual neural circuits within anatomical brain regions as defined functional units. Within the mesolimbic dopamine system, optogenetics has helped separate subsets of dopamine neurons with distinct functions for reward, aversion and salience processing, elucidated GABA neuronal effects on behavior, and characterized connectivity with forebrain and cortical structures. Within the striatum, optogenetics has confirmed the opposing relationship between direct and indirect pathway medium spiny neurons (MSNs), in addition to characterizing the inhibition of MSNs by cholinergic interneurons. Within the hypothalamus, optogenetics has helped overcome the heterogeneity in neuronal cell-type and revealed distinct circuits mediating aggression and feeding. Within the amygdala, optogenetics has allowed the study of intra-amygdala microcircuitry as well as interconnections with distal regions involved in fear and anxiety. In this review, we will present the body of optogenetic studies that has significantly enhanced our understanding of emotional valence and motivated behaviors. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Optogenetics (7th BRES).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward H. Nieh
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sung-Yon Kim
- Department of Bioengineering, Neurosciences Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Praneeth Namburi
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kay M. Tye
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
142
|
|
143
|
Effects of continuously enhanced corticotropin releasing factor expression within the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis on conditioned and unconditioned anxiety. Mol Psychiatry 2013; 18:308-19. [PMID: 22290119 PMCID: PMC3578178 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2011.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The lateral division of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), which forms part of the circuitry regulating fear and anxiety, contains a large number of neurons expressing corticotropin releasing factor (CRF), a neuropeptide that has a prominent role in the etiology of fear- and anxiety-related psychopathologies. Stress increases CRF expression within BNST neurons, implicating these cells in stress- and anxiety-related behaviors. These experiments examined the effect of chronically enhanced CRF expression within BNST neurons on conditioned and unconditioned anxiety-related behavior by using a lentiviral vector containing a promoter that targets CRF gene overexpression (OE) to CRFergic cells. We found that BNST CRF-OE did not affect unconditioned anxiety-like responses in the elevated plus maze or basal acoustic startle amplitude. CRF-OE induced before training weakened sustained fear (conditioned anxiety); when induced after conditioning, CRF-OE increased expression of the conditioned emotional memory. Increased BNST CRF expression did not affect plasma corticosterone concentration but did decrease CRFR1 receptor density within the BNST and CRFR2 receptor density within the dorsal portion of the caudal dorsal raphe nucleus. These data raise the possibility that the observed behavioral effects may be mediated by enhanced CRF receptor signaling or compensatory changes in CRF receptor density within these structures. Together, these studies demonstrate that CRF neurons within the lateral BNST modulate conditioned anxiety-like behaviors and also suggest that enhanced CRF expression within these neurons may contribute to inappropriate regulation of emotional memories.
Collapse
|
144
|
Takahashi Y, Kiyokawa Y, Kodama Y, Arata S, Takeuchi Y, Mori Y. Olfactory signals mediate social buffering of conditioned fear responses in male rats. Behav Brain Res 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2012.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
145
|
Three types of neurochemical projection from the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis to the ventral tegmental area in adult mice. J Neurosci 2013; 32:18035-46. [PMID: 23238719 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4057-12.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) play crucial roles in motivational control of behaviors, and their activity is regulated directly or indirectly via GABAergic neurons by extrinsic afferents from various sources, including the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST). Here, the neurochemical composition of VTA-projecting BST neurons and their outputs to the VTA were studied in adult mouse brains. By combining retrograde tracing with fluorescence in situ hybridization for 67 kDa glutamate decarboxylase (GAD67) and vesicular glutamate transporters (VGluTs), VTA-targeting BST neurons were classified into GAD67-positive (GAD67(+))/VGluT3-negative (VGluT3(-)), GAD67(+)/VGluT3(+), and VGluT2(+) neurons, of which GAD67(+)/VGluT3(-) neurons constituted the majority (∼90%) of VTA-projecting BST neurons. GABAergic efferents from the BST formed symmetrical synapses on VTA neurons, which were mostly GABAergic neurons, and expressed GABA(A) receptor α1 subunit on their synaptic and extrasynaptic membranes. In the VTA, VGluT3 was detected in terminals expressing vesicular inhibitory amino acid transporter (VIAAT), plasmalemmal serotonin transporter, or neither. Of these, VIAAT(+)/VGluT3(+) terminals, which should include those from GAD67(+)/VGluT3(+) BST neurons, formed symmetrical synapses. When single axons from VGluT3(+) BST neurons were examined, almost all terminals were labeled for VIAAT, whereas VGluT3 was often absent from terminals with high VIAAT loads. VGluT2(+) terminals in the VTA exclusively formed asymmetrical synapses, which expressed AMPA receptors on postsynaptic membrane. Therefore, the major mode of the BST-VTA projection is GABAergic, and its activation is predicted to disinhibit VTA DAergic neurons. VGluT2(+) and VGluT3(+) BST neurons further supply additional projections, which may principally convey excitatory or inhibitory inputs, respectively, to the VTA.
Collapse
|
146
|
Sink KS, Chung A, Ressler KJ, Davis M, Walker DL. Anxiogenic effects of CGRP within the BNST may be mediated by CRF acting at BNST CRFR1 receptors. Behav Brain Res 2013; 243:286-93. [PMID: 23376701 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2012] [Revised: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) acting within the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) increases anxiety as well as neural activation in anxiety-related structures, and mediates behavioral stress responses. Similar effects have been described following intra-ventricular as well as intra-BNST infusions of the stress-responsive neuropeptide, corticotropin releasing factor (CRF). Interestingly, CGRP-positive terminals within the lateral division of the BNST form perisomatic baskets around neurons that express CRF, suggesting that BNST CGRP could exert its anxiogenic effects by increasing release of CRF from these neurons. With this in mind, the present set of experiments was designed to examine the role of CRFR1 signaling in the anxiogenic effects of CGRP within the BNST and to determine whether CRF from BNST neurons contributes to these effects. Consistent with previous studies, we found that 400 ng CGRP infused bilaterally into the BNST increased the acoustic startle response and induced anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze compared to vehicle. Both of these effects were attenuated by 10mg/kg PO of the CRFR1 antagonist, GSK876008. GSK876008 alone did not affect startle. An intra-BNST infusion of the CRFR1 antagonist CP376395 (2 μg) also blocked increases in acoustic startle induced by intra-BNST infusion of CGRP, as did virally-mediated siRNA knockdown of CRF expression locally within the BNST. Together, these results suggest that the anxiogenic effects of intra-BNST CGRP may be mediated by CRF from BNST neurons acting at local CRFR1 receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K S Sink
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
147
|
Hott SC, Gomes FV, Fabri DRS, Reis DG, Crestani CC, Côrrea FMA, Resstel LBM. Both α1- and β1-adrenoceptors in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis are involved in the expression of conditioned contextual fear. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 167:207-21. [PMID: 22506532 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.01985.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is a limbic structure that is involved in the expression of conditioned contextual fear. Among the numerous neural inputs to the BNST, noradrenergic synaptic terminals are prominent and some evidence suggests an activation of this noradrenergic neurotransmission in the BNST during aversive situations. Here, we have investigated the involvement of the BNST noradrenergic system in the modulation of behavioural and autonomic responses induced by conditioned contextual fear in rats. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male Wistar rats with cannulae bilaterally implanted into the BNST were submitted to a 10 min conditioning session (6 footshocks, 1.5 ma/ 3 s). Twenty-four hours later freezing and autonomic responses (mean arterial pressure, heart rate and cutaneous temperature) to the conditioning box were measured for 10 min. The adrenoceptor antagonists were administered 10 min before the re-exposure to the aversive context. KEY RESULTS L-propranolol, a non-selective β-adrenoceptor antagonist, and phentolamine, a non-selective α-adrenoceptor antagonist, reduced both freezing and autonomic responses induced by aversive context. Similar results were observed with CGP20712, a selective β(1) -adrenoceptor antagonist, and WB4101, a selective α(1) -antagonist, but not with ICI118,551, a selective β(2) -adrenoceptor antagonist or RX821002, a selective α(2) -antagonist. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These findings support the idea that noradrenergic neurotransmission in the BNST via α(1) - and β(1) -adrenoceptors is involved in the expression of conditioned contextual fear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara C Hott
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
148
|
Ravinder S, Burghardt NS, Brodsky R, Bauer EP, Chattarji S. A role for the extended amygdala in the fear-enhancing effects of acute selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatment. Transl Psychiatry 2013; 3:e209. [PMID: 23321806 PMCID: PMC3566718 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2012.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are reported to exacerbate symptoms of anxiety when treatment is initiated. These clinical findings have been extended to animal models wherein SSRIs also potentiate anxiety and fear learning, which depend on the amygdala. Yet, little is known about the role of specific amygdalar circuits in these acute effects of SSRIs. Here, we first confirmed that a single injection of fluoxetine 1 h before auditory fear conditioning potentiated fear memory in rats. To probe the neural substrates underlying this enhancement, we analyzed the expression patterns of the immediate early gene, Arc (activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein). Consistent with previous reports, fear conditioning induced Arc protein expression in the lateral and basal amygdala. However, this was not enhanced further by pre-treatment with fluoxetine. Instead, fluoxetine significantly enhanced expression of Arc in the central amygdala (CeA) and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST). Next, we tested whether direct targeted infusions of fluoxetine into the CeA, or BNST, leads to the same fear-potentiating effect. Strikingly, direct infusion of fluoxetine into the BNST, but not the CeA, was sufficient to enhance fear memory. Moreover, this behavioral effect was also accompanied by robust Arc expression in the CeA, similar to the systemic injection. Our results identify a novel role for the BNST in the acute fear-enhancing effects of SSRIs. These findings highlight the need to look beyond the traditional focus on input nuclei of the amygdala and add to accumulating evidence implicating these microcircuits in gating fear and anxiety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Ravinder
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore, India
| | - N S Burghardt
- Departments of Neuroscience, Psychiatry & Pharmacology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - R Brodsky
- Biology Department, Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - E P Bauer
- Biology Department, Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - S Chattarji
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore, India,National Centre for Biological Sciences, GKVK Campus, Bellary Road, Bangalore 560065, India. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
149
|
Brown KW, Weinstein N, Creswell JD. Trait mindfulness modulates neuroendocrine and affective responses to social evaluative threat. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2012; 37:2037-41. [PMID: 22626868 PMCID: PMC5087919 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2012.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2011] [Revised: 04/06/2012] [Accepted: 04/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individual differences in mindfulness have been associated with numerous self-report indicators of stress, but research has not examined how mindfulness may buffer neuroendocrine and psychological stress responses under controlled laboratory conditions. The present study investigated the role of trait mindfulness in buffering cortisol and affective responses to a social evaluative stress challenge versus a control task. METHODS Participants completed measures of trait mindfulness, perceived stress, anxiety, and fear of negative evaluation before being randomized to complete the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST; Kirschbaum et al., 1993) or a control task. At points throughout the session, participants provided five saliva samples to assess cortisol response patterns, and completed four self-report measures of anxiety and negative affect to assess psychological responses. RESULTS In accord with hypotheses, higher trait mindfulness predicted lower cortisol responses to the TSST, relative to the control task, as well as lower anxiety and negative affect. These relations remained significant when controlling for the role of other variables that predicted cortisol and affective responses. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that trait mindfulness modulates cortisol and affective responses to an acute social stressor. Further research is needed to understand the neural pathways through which mindfulness impacts these responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirk Warren Brown
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284-2018, United States.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
150
|
Homberg JR. Serotonergic modulation of conditioned fear. SCIENTIFICA 2012; 2012:821549. [PMID: 24278743 PMCID: PMC3820492 DOI: 10.6064/2012/821549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Conditioned fear plays a key role in anxiety disorders as well as depression and other neuropsychiatric conditions. Understanding how neuromodulators drive the associated learning and memory processes, including memory consolidation, retrieval/expression, and extinction (recall), is essential in the understanding of (individual differences in vulnerability to) these disorders and their treatment. The human and rodent studies I review here together reveal, amongst others, that acute selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment facilitates fear conditioning, reduces contextual fear, and increases cued fear, chronic SSRI treatment reduces both contextual and cued fear, 5-HT1A receptors inhibit the acquisition and expression of contextual fear, 5-HT2A receptors facilitates the consolidation of cued and contextual fear, inactivation of 5-HT2C receptors facilitate the retrieval of cued fear memory, the 5-HT3 receptor mediates contextual fear, genetically induced increases in serotonin levels are associated with increased fear conditioning, impaired cued fear extinction, or impaired extinction recall, and that genetically induced 5-HT depletion increases fear conditioning and contextual fear. Several explanations are presented to reconcile seemingly paradoxical relationships between serotonin levels and conditioned fear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith R. Homberg
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein 21, Route 126, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|