Chapter 5.3 Transcription factors as modulators of stress responsivity

Abstract

Exposure to stress can lead to both adaptive and maladaptive changes that control neuronal function and behavior. The mechanisms underlying these adaptive changes include regulation of synaptic transmission, intracellular signal transduction, gene expression, and even structural alterations. Because acute and chronic exposure to stress can lead to long-term changes in neuronal function, special emphasis has been placed on regulation of transcription factors and patterns of gene expression that could underlie these changes. In this chapter, the basic mechanisms that regulate transcription factors and gene expression, including cis- and trans-acting factors, are discussed. The influence of stress on three major classes of transcription factors, activating transcription factor (ATF) (e.g., the cAMP response elementbinding protein or CREB), activator protein-1 (AP-1) (e.g., c-Fos and c-Jun), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is examined. Characterization of the transcription factors and target genes underlying the actions of stress will provide critical information for understanding stress-related neurobiological disorders and ultimately better treatment interventions.