ChR2 induced Fos protein expression counts among distant brain sites WarlowShelley NaffzigerErin 2020 <p>This dataset shows quantifications of Fos protein expression in sites distal to CeA after optogenetic stimulation of CeA (ChR2) during certain behavioral conditions. Specifically, rats were either earning sucrose or cocaine rewards, or interacting with a shock rod, brains were extracted 90 min later and Fos protein expression was measured in various brain sites (see document). Atlas pages with which Fos protein was measured are listed in the first sheet.<br><br>Dataset supporting: Warlow, S.M., Naffziger, E.E. & Berridge, K.C. The central amygdala recruits mesocorticolimbic circuitry for pursuit of reward or pain. <i>Nat Commun</i> <b>11</b>, 2716 (2020). https:/doi.org/10.1038/241467-020-16407-1<br><br>Abstract: How do brain mechanisms create maladaptive attractions? Here intense maladaptive attractions were created in laboratory rats by pairing optogenetic channelrhodopsin (ChR2) stimulation of central nucleus of amygdala (CeA) in rats with encountering either sucrose, cocaine, or a painful shock-delivering object. Pairings made the respective rats pursue either sucrose exclusively, or cocaine exclusively, or repeatedly self-inflict shocks. CeA-induced maladaptive attractions, even to the painful shock-rod, recruited mesocorticolimbic incentive-related circuitry. Shock-associated cues also gained positive incentive value and were pursued. Yet the motivational effects of paired CeA stimulation could be reversed to negative valence in a Pavlovian fear learning situation, where CeA ChR2 pairing increased defensive reactions. Finally, CeA ChR2 valence could be switched to neutral by pairing with innocuous stimuli. These results reveal valence plasticity and multiple modes for motivation via mesocorticolimbic circuitry under the control of CeA activation.<br><br>Find other related resources in the collection here: https://doi.org/10.35092/yhjc.c.4939542<br></p>