Habenular Neurons Expressing Mu Opioid Receptors Promote Negative Affect in a Projection-Specific Manner.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The mu opioid receptor (MOR) is central to hedonic balance and produces euphoria by engaging reward circuits. MOR signaling may also influence aversion centers, notably the habenula (Hb), where the receptor is highly dense. Our previous data suggest that the inhibitory activity of MOR in the Hb may limit aversive states. To investigate this hypothesis, we tested whether neurons expressing MOR in the Hb (Hb-MOR neurons) promote negative affect.

Methods

Using Oprm1-Cre knockin mice, we combined tracing and optogenetics with behavioral testing to investigate consequences of Hb-MOR neuron stimulation for approach/avoidance (real-time place preference), anxiety-related responses (open field, elevated plus maze, and marble burying), and despair-like behavior (tail suspe

SUBMITTER: Bailly J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10027626 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature