A distinct D1-MSN subpopulation down-regulates dopamine to promote negative emotional state

Dopamine (DA) level in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) is critical for reward and aversion encoding. DA released from the ventral mesencephalon (VM) DAergic neurons increases the excitability of VM-projecting D1-dopamine receptor-expressing medium spiny neurons (D1-MSNs) in the NAc to enhance DA release and augment rewards. However, how such a DA positive feedback loop is regulated to maintain DA homeostasis and reward-aversion balance remains elusive. Here we report that the ventral pallidum (VP) projection of NAc D1-MSNs (D1(NAc-VP)) is inhibited by rewarding stimuli and activated by aversive stimuli. In contrast to the VM projection of D1-MSN (D1(NAc-VM)), activation of D1(NAc-VP) projection induces aversion, but not reward. D1(NAc-VP) MSNs are distinct from the D1(NAc-VM) MSNs, which exhibit conventional functions of D1-MSNs. Activation of D1(NAc-VP) projection stimulates VM GABAergic transmission, inhibits VM DAergic neurons, and reduces DA release into the NAc. Thus, D1(NAc-VP) and D1(NAc-VM) MSNs cooperatively control NAc dopamine balance and reward-aversion states.

Automated summary

Activation of NAc D1-MSNs projecting to the ventral pallidum (D1(NAc-VP)) induces aversive responses, while activation of those projecting to the ventral mesencephalon (D1(NAc-VM)) leads to reward. The D1(NAc-VP) projection inhibits VM DAergic neurons and reduces DA release, contributing to the balance of dopamine levels in the NAc for maintaining reward-aversion states.