Mechanisms in the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis Involved in Control of Autonomic and Neuroendocrine Functions: A Review

Abstract

The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is a heterogeneous and complex limbic forebrain structure, which plays an important role in controlling autonomic, neuroendocrine and behavioral responses. The BNST is thought to serve as a key relay connecting limbic forebrain structures to hypothalamic and brainstem regions associated with autonomic and neuroendocrine functions. Its control of physiological and behavioral activity is mediated by local action of numerous neurotransmitters. In the present review we discuss the role of the BNST in control of both autonomic and neuroendocrine function. A description of BNST control of cardiovascular and hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axisactivity at rest and during physiological challenges (stress and physical exercise) is presented. Moreover, evidence for modulation of hypothalamic magnocellular neurons activity is also discussed. We attempt to focus on the discussion of BNST neurochemical mechanisms. Therefore, the source and targets of neurochemical inputs to BNST subregions and their role in control of autonomic and neuroendocrine function is discussed in details.

Stress Modulation of Opposing Circuits in the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis

“…This is in agreement with 5-HT 1A activation inhibiting the BNST's inhibitory influence on the parasympathetic response. Similarly, CBD acts through 5-HT 1A receptors in the BNST to enhance the increase in heart rate during restraint stress, consistent with 5-HT 1A activation inhibiting the BNST's role in activating the parasympathetic system to modulate heart rate during acute stress ; for a review on the BNST's role in modulating autonomic functions see Crestani et al, 2013). Although 5-HT 1A activation facilitating the increase in heart rate seems in contrast to its role in reducing anxiety, it suggests that individual aspects of the response to acute stress are modulated by different circuits within the BNST, and serotonin impacts multiple aspects of the circuit.…”

Learning about stress: neural, endocrine and behavioral adaptations

“…As shown in Figure 4, stress-related information from the pPVT is directed to the prefrontal cortex, subiculum, and amygdaloid nuclei, and then conveyed to the BNST, which influences the HPA axis through efferent projections to the PVN. In addition, the BNST projects to brainstem nuclei involved in regulation of sympathetic outflow (Crestani et al, 2013). It is possible, therefore, that the pPVT and the BNST participate in the regulation of HPA axis and sympatheticadrenal medullary responses to heterotypic stressors.…”

The transsexual brain – A review of findings on the neural basis of transsexualism

“…The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is thought to be involved in the control of autonomic, neuroendocrine and behavioural responses and closely connected to the amygdala, hippocampus and medial prefrontal cortex (Crestani et al, 2013). The INAH3 is one of four cell groups of the preopticanterior hypothalamic area, which is involved in sexual and maternal behaviour and the secretion of gonadotropin (Allen, Hines, Shryne, & Gorski, 1989).…”