Optogenetic characterization of CeA CRF pathways in alcohol dependence

In alcohol dependent animals, withdrawal from alcohol activates a subpopulation of neurons within the central nucleus of amygdala (CeA) and produces high levels of alcohol consumption. However, the phenotype of the neurons activated, the causal role of these neurons, and the specific downstream pathways responsible for these effects are poorly known. We used Crh-Cre transgenic rats combined with in vivo optogenetics to test if the inactivation of CeA CRF neurons or CRF terminals in downstream regions prevents excessive alcohol self-administration during withdrawal.
Source: Alcohol - Category: Addiction Authors: Source Type: research