Oxytocin receptor neurons in the adBNST modulate maternal-like behavior in mice

Maternal care plays a pivotal role in the brain and behavioral development of offspring. However, the neural substrates underlying the effects of oxytocin (OT) on maternal-like behavior remain incompletely understood. Using OTR-Cre female mice, fiber photometry was utilized to monitor the calcium signals in oxytocin receptor (OTR) neurons. We observed elevated activity of adBNST (anterodorsal bed nucleus of the stria terminalis) OTR neurons during pup-caring behavior, as indicated by increased calcium signals. Chemogenetic activation of adBNST OTR neurons prolonged duration of licking pups, whereas inhibiting these neurons reduced the time of licking pups and prolonged the latency to retrieve pups. Additionally, microinjection of OT into the adBNST increased the time of licking pups, while administration of an oxytocin receptor antagonist (OTA) suppressed pup-caring behavior. Collectively, these findings not only deepen our understanding of the neural basis underlying maternal-like behavior but also provide a potential target for treating or mitigating aberrant maternal care associated with postpartum depression, anxiety or related disorders.