PACAP and Stress Responses in Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Tsukiyama Naohiro, Saida Yoko, Kakuda Michiya, Shintani Norihito, Hayata Atsuko, Morita Yoshiko, Tanida Mamoru, Tajiri Minako, Hazama Keisuke, Ogata Katsuya, Hashimoto Hitoshi, Baba Akemichi
Primary Institution: Osaka University
Hypothesis
PACAP signaling is involved in the corticosterone response to emotional stressors in mice.
Conclusion
PACAP is critically involved in the activation of the HPA axis response to emotional stressors.
Supporting Evidence
- PACAP−/− mice showed a significant impairment in plasma corticosterone response to restraint stress.
- Open-field exposure did not significantly increase corticosterone levels in PACAP−/− mice.
- Corticosterone levels increased similarly in PACAP−/− and wild-type mice after CRF or ACTH administration.
- c-Fos expression was significantly decreased in the PVN and MeA of PACAP−/− mice after restraint stress.
Takeaway
Mice without PACAP have a harder time responding to emotional stress, like being in an open field or being restrained.
Methodology
The study used PACAP−/− mice and assessed their corticosterone responses to various stressors, including restraint and open-field exposure.
Limitations
The study did not examine c-Fos expression in other brain regions that may regulate the HPA axis during stress.
Participant Demographics
Naïve male mice aged 10–17 weeks.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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