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Study design
A Neuron study mapped and perturbed a direct basolateral amygdala-to-dorsolateral striatum (BLA–DLS) projection in mice and compared it with the BLA-to-DMS pathway. The researchers also examined compulsively grooming Sapap3-null mice.
What the results suggest
Repeated optogenetic activation strengthened stimulus-evoked grooming and induced heterosynaptic plasticity. The projection was stronger in Sapap3-null mice and arose from a neuronal population distinct from the BLA-to-DMS pathway.
Limits
These mouse circuit findings do not show that the pathway causes obsessive-compulsive disorder or is a validated treatment target in people. Clinical relevance and therapeutic effects remain untested; the abstract and university announcement support this brief report.
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Sources
Research news is not medical advice or a recommendation to use a substance. Read findings in the context of the study design, participants and limitations. Editorial standards.
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