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Localization of the Locus Coeruleus in the Mouse Brain
Published on: March 7, 2019
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Pre-locus coeruleus neurons in rat and mouse
Silvia Gasparini1, Jon M Resch2, Anuradha M Gore1
1Department of Neurology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.
Summary
Researchers clarified the location and connections of pre-locus coeruleus (pre-LC) neurons in mice, identifying their role in integrating homeostatic and contextual information to influence eating behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neuroanatomy
Background:
- The pre-locus coeruleus (pre-LC) is a hindbrain tegmentum neuronal population bordering the locus coeruleus (LC).
- Distinguishing pre-LC and LC neurons in mice is challenging due to intermingling, unlike in rats.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the location, distribution, and inputs of pre-LC neurons in mice using molecular and tracing techniques.
- To establish a neuroanatomical foundation for investigating pre-LC neuron function in ingestive behavior.
Main Methods:
- Colocalization of FoxP2 and Fos in sodium-deprived rats.
- Chemogenetic activation of HSD2 neurons in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) in mice.
- Cre-reporter mice for Pdyn, and tracing of excitatory and inhibitory inputs.
Main Results:
- Identified homologous pre-LC neurons in mice, many of which are dynorphinergic.
- Confirmed excitatory input from NTS and paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus.
- Revealed direct input from the medial prefrontal cortex and inhibitory input from arcuate hypothalamic nucleus AgRP neurons.
Conclusions:
- Pre-LC neurons integrate homeostatic and contextual information.
- These neurons likely influence ingestive behavior through their extensive connections.
