Amygdala
/uh-MIG-duh-luh/
A brain region central to fear processing, emotional memory, and the stress response. CB1 receptors in the amygdala mediate cannabinoids' effects on anxiety and fear extinction.
In Depth
The amygdala is densely innervated by endocannabinoid signaling. CB1 receptor activation in the basolateral amygdala reduces fear responses and facilitates fear extinction — the process by which conditioned fear memories are suppressed. This mechanism underlies the potential of cannabinoids in PTSD treatment. THC's anxiogenic effects at high doses may involve excessive CB1 activation disrupting normal amygdala function. CBD reduces amygdala reactivity to threatening stimuli in human fMRI studies.
Related Terms
Further Reading
More in Neuroscience
Retrograde Signaling
A form of synaptic communication where the postsynaptic neuron sends chemical signals back to the presynaptic neuron to modulate neurotransmitter release.
Neurogenesis
The process by which new neurons are formed in the brain. In adults, primarily occurs in the hippocampus (dentate gyrus) and olfactory bulb.
Neuroprotection
The preservation of neuronal structure and function against injury, degeneration, or disease.
Neuroinflammation
Inflammation of nervous tissue, involving activation of microglia and astrocytes and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines within the CNS.
Hippocampus
A brain region critical for memory formation, spatial navigation, and stress regulation. Highly enriched in CB1 receptors and particularly sensitive to cannabinoid effects.