Fig. 9: A model diagram illustrating the role of vmPFC nNOS-expressing neurons in chronic pain-induced anxiety. | Nature Communications

Fig. 9: A model diagram illustrating the role of vmPFC nNOS-expressing neurons in chronic pain-induced anxiety.

From: nNOS-expressing neurons in the vmPFC transform pPVT-derived chronic pain signals into anxiety behaviors

Fig. 9

During chronic pain, vmPFC nNOS-expressing neurons are stimulated by glutamatergic inputs from pPVT CaMKIIα+ pyramidal neurons. Activated nNOS-expressing neurons produce diffusing NO and cause the S-nitrosylation of AMPAR-interacting proteins in CaMKIIα+ pyramidal neurons, promoting AMPAR trafficking to the plasma membrane. Consequently, enhanced AMPAR function in vmPFC CaMKIIα+ pyramidal neurons leads to anxiety-related behaviors.

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