The central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) is involved in fear conditioning and participates in euroendocrine response to stressful stimuli. In our previous study, we found that CeA also influences immune function, especially innate antitumore response. In the present study, we investigated the influence of 14-day electrical stimulation of the CeA on corticosterone level (CORT; determined by radioimmunoassay) and behavioral response: locomotor activity in the new environment (measured in the Opto Varimex Minor actometer), explorative and anxiety-like behavior [assessed in the openfield (OF) and in the elevated plus-maze (EPM) tests]. Male Wistar rats implanted with stimulating electrodes into the CeA were divided into groups: CeA 14-day electrical stimulation (n=20) and CeA sham (n=18). Current intensity (70–120 µA; 50 Hz) was raised incrementally in 30-s trials until behavioral reaction in the Opto Varimex Minor actometer was observed. OF and EPM tests were performed after termination of stimuation procedure. Electrical stimulation of the CeA caused augmentation of CORT level (P<0.001) correlated with an increase in the average number of movements in horizontal and vertical plane imitating escape behavior. These effects were accompanied by an increase in anxiety-related behavior in the EPM and decreased locomotor activity and exploration in the OF. We suggest the hormonal response to of the CeA stimulation plays a crucial role in the regulation of the behavioral response. Supported by The National Science Centre, grant number: NN303819040.
JavaScript jest wyłączony w Twojej przeglądarce internetowej. Włącz go, a następnie odśwież stronę, aby móc w pełni z niej korzystać.