Mice lacking integrin β3 expression exhibit altered response to chronic stress.

ABSTRACT: Recent studies indicate multiple roles for integrin αvβ3 in adult neurons, including response to pharmacological agents such as cocaine and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. In this study, we examined the role of the integrin β3 gene (Itgb3) in the response to environmental stimuli by subjecting Itgb3^+/+ and Itgb3^-/- mice to unpredictable chronic mild stressors. We found that genetic abrogation of integrin β3 expression elicits an exaggerated vulnerability to chronic unpredictable stress in the open field test. In this test, chronic stress elicited significant decreases in stereotypic behavior and horizontal locomotor activity, including increases in anxiety behaviors. Mild chronic stress led to reductions in dopamine turnover in midbrains

SUBMITTER: Varney S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4664197 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature