Title:Mechanisms in the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis Involved in Control of Autonomic and Neuroendocrine Functions: A Review
VOLUME: 11 ISSUE: 2
Author(s):Carlos C. Crestani, Fernando H.F. Alves, Felipe V. Gomes, Leonardo B.M. Resstel, Fernando M.A. Correa and James P. Herman
Affiliation:Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Natural Active Principles and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sao Paulo State University - UNESP, Rodovia Araraquara-Jau Km 01 (Campus Universitario), 14801-902, Caixa Postal 502, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
Keywords:BNST, cardiovascular function, extended amygdala, neurotransmitters, HPA axis, vasopressin, stress and physical
exercise
Abstract:The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is a heterogeneous and complex limbic forebrain structure,
which plays an important role in controlling autonomic, neuroendocrine and behavioral responses. The BNST is thought
to serve as a key relay connecting limbic forebrain structures to hypothalamic and brainstem regions associated with
autonomic and neuroendocrine functions. Its control of physiological and behavioral activity is mediated by local action
of numerous neurotransmitters. In the present review we discuss the role of the BNST in control of both autonomic and
neuroendocrine function. A description of BNST control of cardiovascular and hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal
axisactivity at rest and during physiological challenges (stress and physical exercise) is presented. Moreover, evidence for
modulation of hypothalamic magnocellular neurons activity is also discussed. We attempt to focus on the discussion of
BNST neurochemical mechanisms. Therefore, the source and targets of neurochemical inputs to BNST subregions and
their role in control of autonomic and neuroendocrine function is discussed in details.
