This record provides bibliographic details and links to the original research. An editorial study breakdown is not available.
What the researchers found
NPY-expressing neurons surrounding the locus coeruleus inhibit noradrenaline output through NPY-Y1R signaling, providing bidirectional control of anxiety. Stress activates these neurons, and enhancing their activity reduces anxiety after stress.
Why it matters
The brain has a built-in brake system for stress responses using neuropeptide Y. Understanding this system could lead to new anxiety treatments that boost the brain's own calming mechanisms rather than suppressing the entire stress response.
The numbers in context
Not specified quantitatively. Demonstrated bidirectional control via activation/inhibition experiments. NPY-Y1R signaling identified as mechanism.
How the study worked
Functional circuit dissection in mice. Combined optogenetics, chemogenetics, in vivo fiber photometry, and NPY release measurement. Tested in naive and stress-exposed conditions.
Who was studied
Mice with targeted manipulation of peri-locus coeruleus NPY neurons
What this study cannot tell us
Mouse model only. Neural circuits may differ in humans. Manipulations are invasive and not directly translatable to therapy. Acute stress paradigm may not reflect chronic anxiety disorders.
Read the original research
Neuropeptide Y neurons surrounding the locus coeruleus inhibit noradrenergic system activity to reduce anxiety.
Science advances, 11(30), eadq0011
Citation
Riga, Danai; Kooij, Karlijn L; Rademakers, Kelly; Wolterink-Donselaar, Inge G; Basak, Onur; Meye, Frank J. (2025). Neuropeptide Y neurons surrounding the locus coeruleus inhibit noradrenergic system activity to reduce anxiety.. Science advances, 11(30), eadq0011. https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adq0011