Increased Expression of the Gene for the Y1 Receptor of Neuropeptide Y in the Amygdala and Paraventricular Nucleus of Y1R/LacZ Transgenic Mice in Response to Restraint Stress

The study investigated the effects of restraint stress on neuroactive steroid concentrations and Y1 receptor gene expression in the amygdala and hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of Y1R/LacZ transgenic mice. It was found that acute restraint stress increased the cerebrocortical concentrations of neuroactive steroids and Y1 receptor gene expression in the amygdala and PVN, with the latter occurring 6 hours after stress exposure. However, repeated restraint stress over 10 days did not affect transgene expression, indicating the development of tolerance. The increase in Y1 receptor gene expression from acute stress was not mediated by neuroactive steroids, suggesting a ligand-induced mechanism. This study supported the role of Y1 receptors in the behavioral and neuroendocrine responses to stress.