Genetic Tagging Uncovers a Robust, Selective Activation of the Thalamic Paraventricular Nucleus by Adverse Experiences Early in Life.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Early-life adversity (ELA) is associated with increased risk for mood disorders, including depression and substance use disorders. These disorders are characterized by impaired reward-related behaviors, suggesting compromised operations of reward-related brain circuits. However, the brain regions engaged by ELA that mediate these enduring consequences of ELA remain largely unknown. In an animal model of ELA, we identified aberrant reward-seeking behaviors, a discovery that provides a framework for assessing the underlying circuits.

Methods

Employing TRAP2 (targeted recombination in active populations) male and female mice, in which neurons activated within a defined time frame are permanently tagged, we compared ELA- and control-reared mice, assessing the quantity

SUBMITTER: Kooiker CL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10593902 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature