下丘脑背内侧核对焦虑的调控机制研究

下丘脑背内侧核(Dorsomedial Hypothalamic Nucleus，DMH)是自主神经系统的重要组成部分，同时与调控焦虑情绪的边缘系统存在广泛联系。然而，DMH 调控焦虑等负性情绪的细胞机制目前尚不明确。该文应用光遗传技术特异性调控小鼠的谷氨酸能神经元和 γ-氨基丁酸能神经元发现，兴奋 DMH 的谷氨酸能和 γ-氨基丁酸能神经元均能显著诱发焦虑样行为和心率上升，抑制两种神经元均能抑制焦虑样行为并降低心率。该研究证实了 DMH 特定类型的神经细胞对焦虑的双向调控作用，并有望为神经精神疾病的临床干预提供新的调控靶点。

Regulation Mechanism of Hypothalamic Dorsomedial Nucleus on Anxiety

Dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus (DMH) is an important component of autonomic nervous system, which has extensive connections with limbic system. DMH may participates in the regulation of negative emotions, such as anxiety and fear. However, the cellular mechanisms are still unknown. In this study, elevated plus maze and open filed tests were performed, and a bidirectional effect of optogenetic modulation on behaviors was found. Activating the DMH glutamatergic or gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABAergic) neurons leading to the anxiety-like behavior and increasing of heart rate, while optical inhibition significantly suppressed the anxiety-like behavior and decreased heart rate. These findings may provide new targets for clinical therapy for neuropsychiatric disorders.