Decrease in NMDA receptor-signalling activity in the anterior cingulate cortex diminishes defensive behaviour and unconditioned fear-induced antinociception elicited by GABAergic tonic inhibition impairment in the posterior hypothalamus

Acute γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) disinhibition in the posterior hypothalamus (PH) elicits defensive reactions that are considered anxiety- and panic attack-like behaviour, and these defensive reactions are followed by antinociception. Evidence indicates that the PH connects with the medial prefrontal cor tex, particularly the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), which seems to regulate these unconditioned fear-induced defensive responses. However, few studies have shown the participation of cortical regions in the control of behavioural and antinociceptive responses organised by diencephalic structures.

Source: European Neuropsychopharmacology - September 20, 2017 Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Luiz Luciano Falconi-Sobrinho, Tayllon dos Anjos-Garcia, Ricardo de Oliveira, Norberto Cysne Coimbra Source Type: research