Anterior hypothalamic nucleus drives distinct defensive responses through cell-type-specific activity.

ABSTRACT: Innate defensive behaviors are essential for survival, allowing animals to appropriately respond to predatory threats. The anterior hypothalamic nucleus (AHN), a key region in the medial hypothalamic defense system, contains both GABAergic and glutamatergic neurons, reflecting a sophisticated balance between inhibitory and excitatory signaling. However, the specific behavioral functions of these neuronal populations have not been systemically examined. Here, we utilized fiber photometry and optogenetic stimulation to investigate the roles of AHN GABAergic, glutamatergic, and CaMKIIa+ neuronal activities in mediating innate defensive behaviors. Our results indicate that AHN GABAergic neurons mediate anxiety-associated investigatory behaviors, while AHN glutamatergic neurons drive escape and

SUBMITTER: Hong CY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11985144 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature