Distinct medial amygdala oxytocin receptor neurons projections respectively control consolation or aggression in male mandarin voles.

ABSTRACT: The individuals often show consolation to distressed companions or show aggression to the intruders. The circuit mechanisms underlying switching between consolation and aggression remain unclear. In the present study, using male mandarin voles, we identified that two distinct subtypes of oxytocin receptor (OXTR) neurons in the medial amygdala (MeA) projecting to the anterior insula (AI) and ventrolateral aspect of ventromedial hypothalamus (VMHvl) response differently to stressed siblings or unfamiliar intruders using c-Fos or calcium recording. Oxytocin release and activities of PVN neurons projecting to MeA increased upon consoling and attacking. OXTR antagonist injection to the MeA reduced consoling and attacking. Apoptosis, optogenetic or pharmacogenetic manipulation of these two popul

SUBMITTER: Qu Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11408735 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature