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Disrupting Reconsolidation of Fear Memory in Humans by a Noradrenergic β-Blocker
Published on: December 18, 2014
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Corticosteroid-endocannabinoid loop supports decrease of fear-conditioned response in rats
R M Bitencourt1, F A Pamplona2, R N Takahashi1
1Laboratory of Psychopharmacology, Pharmacology Department, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianopolis 88049-900, Brazil.
Summary
Glucocorticoids and endocannabinoids interact to reduce fear responses. Blocking CB1 receptors stops glucocorticoid effects, suggesting CB1 activation is key for reducing conditioned freezing behavior.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The endocannabinoid (eCB) and glucocorticoid systems modulate emotional states.
- Glucocorticoids release during stress and endocannabinoids during fear responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the interaction between glucocorticoid and endocannabinoid systems.
- Determine their contribution to reducing conditioned freezing behavior.
Main Methods:
- Examined the effect of CB1 receptor blockade on glucocorticoid-induced freezing decrease.
- Assessed the impact of inhibiting glucocorticoid synthesis on endocannabinoid signaling.
Main Results:
- CB1 receptor blockade prevented glucocorticoid-facilitated reduction in freezing.
- Inhibiting glucocorticoid synthesis made endocannabinoid signaling enhancement ineffective.
- CB1 activation reduced glucocorticoid release, contributing to reduced freezing.
Conclusions:
- Suggests a bidirectional interdependence between glucocorticoid and endocannabinoid systems.
- CB1 receptors are downstream to glucocorticoid release.
- This interaction contributes to the persistent reduction of conditioned fear responses.
