Scientists from the Salk Institute for Biological Research (USA) have discovered that the mechanism of panic attacks is triggered in the lateral parabrachial nucleus (PBL), the so-called “alarm center of the brain”. This small area controls breathing, heart rate and body temperature. Research results published In the journal Nature Neuroscience.
Scientists examined the brains of mice to understand exactly which structures trigger severe anxiety attacks in panic personality disorder. It is generally accepted that the amygdala, known as the fear center of the brain, is responsible for panic attacks. However, when examining the lateral parabrachial nucleus (PBL), located in the brainstem, researchers found that this region also plays a role in the emotional and physical symptoms of panic disorder.
According to the study authors, PBL produces the neuropeptide PACAP (pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide), which is known to be a master regulator of stress responses.
By simulating a panic attack in mice, scientists found that PACAP-expressing neurons were activated during an attack. Once activated, they release the neuropeptide signaling pathway PACAP into another part of the brain called the dorsal nucleus. Contains neurons with PACAP receptors. Targeting these receptor neurons caused the mice to breathe rapidly, increase heart rate, and panicked behavioral responses.
Scientists have suggested that artificially blocking the PACAP signal could prevent anxiety and panic attacks. According to the researchers, their discovery forms the basis for the development of new therapeutic agents targeting PACAP.
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