Sensory-thresholded switch of neural firing states in a computational model of the ventromedial hypothalamus.

ABSTRACT: The mouse ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) is both necessary and sufficient for defensive responses to predator and social threats. Defensive behaviors typically involve cautious approach toward potentially threatening stimuli aimed at obtaining information about the risk involved, followed by sudden avoidance and flight behavior to escape harm. In vivo neural recording studies in mice have identified two major populations of VMH neurons that either increase their firing activity as the animal approaches the threat (called Assessment+ cells) or increase their activity as the animal flees the threat (called Flight+ cells). Interestingly, Assessment+ and Flight+ cells abruptly decrease and increase their firing activity, respectively, at the decision point for flight, creating an escap

SUBMITTER: Rahy R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9491323 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature