Topic: MCH neurons

Paradoxical sleep has been named because it is a state paradoxically close to wakefulness (W) at the cortical level. In this context, our research group has shown using cFos mapping that only a few limbic cortical structures contain activated neurons during PS in contrast with W during which most of the cortical structures are activated. In the present study, we directly determine whether the same or different neurons are activated during W and PS using a new genetic approach. We mapped the neurons activated during W and PS in the transgenic TRAP2-red mouse model. Four male mice implanted wit

Orexin binds G-protein-coupled receptors, orexin receptor 1 (Ox1R) and 2 (Ox2R). These receptors modulate diverse brain functions, such as sleep and metabolism, with their wide expression throughout the brain. Previous in vitro studies have found that Ox2R works in both Gq and Gi-coupled signaling pathways, indicating excitatory and inhibitory functions respectively. In vivo studies, however, the inhibitory role has yet to be discerned, whereas the excitatory function has been elucidated in numerous reports. Consequently, Ox2R is predominantly recognized for eliciting only excitatory signals i