CCK-expressing neurons in the NTS are directly activated by CCK-sensitive C-type vagal afferents.

Vagal sensory afferents carrying information from the gastrointestinal tract (GI) terminate in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS). Different subpopulations of NTS neurons then relay this information throughout the brain. Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a satiety peptide that activates vagal afferents in the GI.

CCK-sensitive C fibers activate NTS leptin receptor-expressing neurons via NMDA receptors.

The hormone leptin reduces food intake through actions in the peripheral and central nervous systems, including in the hindbrain nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS). The NTS receives viscerosensory information via vagal afferents, including information from the gastrointestinal tract, which is then relayed to other central nervous system (CNS) sites critical for control of food intake. Leptin receptors (lepRs) are expressed by a subpopulation of NTS neurons, and knockdown of these receptors increases both food intake and body weight.

Effects of a True Prophylactic Treatment on Hippocampal and Amygdala Synaptic Plasticity and Gene Expression in a Rodent Chronic Stress Model of Social Defeat.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex stress-related disorder induced by exposure to traumatic stress that is characterized by symptoms of re-experiencing, avoidance, and hyper-arousal. While it is widely accepted that brain regions involved in emotional regulation and memory-e.g.