Abstract
An organism's ability to adapt successfully to stress reflects an equilibrium that requires not only an appropriate response, but also an ability to control that response. The hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis contributes to these homeostatic actions. Previous research implicates involvement of the serotonergic 5-HT 2A receptors of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in HPA axis activation. However, the sensitivity of these receptors to activate the PVN under conditions of chronically elevated glucocorticoids is not known. To this extent, we investigated the effects of chronic corticosterone administration on c-fos expression induced by the serotonergic 5-HT 2A/2C receptor agonist DOI within the PVN. Under resting conditions, DOI evokes a robust activation of the PVN; however, following chronic treatment with corticosterone, this response is abolished. These results indicate that chronically elevated glucocorticoid levels desensitize serotonergic 5-HT 2A receptors within the PVN, a phenomenon which may contribute to HPA axis suppression following protracted glucocorticoid hypersecretion.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
