
==== Front
Res Sq
ResearchSquare
Research Square
American Journal Experts

10.21203/rs.3.rs-4463812/v1
10.21203/rs.3.rs-4463812
preprint
1
Article
Activation of NPY2R-expressing amygdala neurons inhibits itch behavior in mice without lateralization
Pavlenko Darya
Seven Zeynep Todurga
Sanders Kristen
Markan Anika
Verpile Rebecca
Ishida Hirotake
Costco Dylan
Akiyama Tasuku https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7155-4228

24 5 2024
rs.3.rs-4463812https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which allows reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium or format, so long as attribution is given to the creator. The license allows for commercial use.
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-4463812/v1
nihpp-rs4463812v1.pdf
Abstract

The central amygdala (CeA) is a crucial hub in the processing of affective itch, containing a diverse array of neuronal populations. Among these components, Neuropeptide Y (NPY) and its receptors, such as NPY2R, affect various physiological and psychological processes. Despite this broad impact, the precise role of NPY2R+ CeA neurons in itch modulation remains unknown, particularly concerning any potential lateralization effects. To address this, we employed optogenetics to selectively stimulate NPY2R+ CeA neurons in mice, investigating their impact on itch modulation. Optogenetic activation of NPY2R+ CeA neurons reduced scratching behavior elicited by pruritogens without exhibiting any lateralization effects. Electrophysiological recordings confirmed increased neuronal activity upon stimulation. However, this modulation did not affect thermal sensitivity, mechanical sensitivity, or inflammatory pain. Additionally, no alterations in anxiety-like behaviors or locomotion were observed upon stimulation. Projection tracing revealed connections of NPY2R+ CeA neurons to brain regions implicated in itch processing. Overall, this comprehensive study highlights the role of NPY2R+ CeA neurons in itch regulation without any lateralization effects.
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