Abstract
In this Project we propose a broad series of studies to investigate innate and learned fear responses to predatory threats and to evaluate candidate genes related to aggressive behavior. In the first series of studies, we shall first investigate the neural and molecular mechanisms underlying fear memory to predatory threats, examining: a) the role of cortical circuits and dorsolateral periaqueductal gray (PAGdl) in the fear memory acquisition; b) signaling paths involved in fear memory to predatory threats; and c) the dynamics of consolidation, reconsolidation and extinction of fear memory to predators. In the second group of studies, we aim at investigating the role of the ventral hippocampus and PAGdl in the organization of antipredatory responses. First, we will correlate the electrical recording in these sites with the behavioral responses, and next we will manipulate elements of the circuit by either inactivating farmacogenetically the PAGdl or inactivationing optogenetically a hypothalamic-septal path potentially underlying risk assessment responses. In the last series of studies, we will search candidate genes involved in the expression of aggressive responses. To this end, we plan to identify the differential gene expression in the hypothalamic attack area, comparing females rats after mating and dams that expressed maternal aggression. The main challenge of the present proposal is to implement new methodologies, which will take our investigation to a whole new level, where we should be able to use state-of-the-art molecular and electrophysiological approaches to understand the neural basis of fear and aggression. (AU)
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