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A synaptocentric view of the neuroendocrine response to stress
Author(s) -
Wamsteeker Jaclyn I.,
Bains Jaideep S.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
european journal of neuroscience
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.346
H-Index - 206
eISSN - 1460-9568
pISSN - 0953-816X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2010.07513.x
Subject(s) - parvocellular cell , neuroscience , hypothalamus , fight or flight response , context (archaeology) , corticotropin releasing hormone , stress hormone , glutamate receptor , psychology , hormone , biology , medicine , endocrinology , paleontology , biochemistry , receptor , gene
The essential role of parvocellular neuroendocrine cells (PNCs) in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) is to translate real or perceived challenges into a comprehensive glucocorticoid (GC) hormone response. Synaptic inputs encoding physical and psychological stress engage the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA) by increasing PNC activity, and corticotropin‐releasing hormone production and release. Following robust recruitment in response to stress, GCs feedback to dampen PNC responses. Here we review the contributions of glutamate and GABA synapses in PVN to the initiation and termination of the stress response. The reliability of HPA responses to a given stress can vary as a function of prior experience. Within this context, we examine possible synaptic correlates that allow this neuroendocrine system to learn and adapt following stress challenges.