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Published on: December 6, 2024
Embedded synaptic feedback in the neuroendocrine stress axis
J I Wamsteeker Cusulin1, J S Bains1
1Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
Abstract:
Neural regulation of blood glucocorticoid levels is critical for defence of homeostasis during physiological or psychoemotional challenges. In mammals, this function is carried out by the neuroendocrine stress axis, coordinated by parvocellular neuroendocrine cells (PNCs) of the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus. Feedback regulation of PNCs by glucocorticoids provides complex experience-dependent shaping of neuroendocrine responses. We review recent evidence for metaplastic actions of glucocorticoids as 'circuit breakers' at synapses directly regulating PNC excitability and explore how such mechanisms may serve as substrates for stress adaptation.
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