Chronic Stress and Neuronal Pathology: Neurochemical, Molecular and Genetic Factors
Abstract
The purpose of this project was to determine whether chronic activation of brain - corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) stress systems led to oxidative damage of brain dopamine systems and to investigate individual susceptibility to this pathological cascade. In Specific Aim 1, the goal was to explore the effects of chronic psychological and physical stress on neuropharmacological, neurochemical and oxidative stress measures of mesocortical and nigrostriatal dopaminergic system integrity. Chronic psychological - stress was found to produce activation and temporary dysfunction of the mesocortical and nigrostriatal dopaminergic systems, changes that were accompanied by evidence of increased lipid peroxidation, a marker of oxidative stress. In Specific Aim 2, the goal was to selectively breed rats for high and low response to stressors on the basis of their HPA-axis response to footshock.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA412114
Entities
People
- Amanda Roberts
- George F. Koob
- Pietro P. Sanna
Organizations
- Scripps Research