A Nucleus Accumbens Tac1 Neural Circuit Regulates Avoidance Responses to Aversive Stimuli

Neural circuits that control aversion are essential for motivational regulation and survival in animals. The nucleus accumbens (NAc) plays an important role in predicting aversive events and translating motivations into actions. However, the NAc circuits that mediate aversive behaviors remain elusive. Here, we report that tachykinin precursor 1 (Tac1) neurons in the NAc medial shell regulate avoidance responses to aversive stimuli. We show that NAcTac1 neurons project to the lateral hypothalamic area (LH) and that the NAcTac1 -> LH pathway contributes to avoidance responses. Moreover, the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) sends excitatory inputs to the NAc, and this circuit is involved in the regulation of avoidance responses to aversive stimuli. Overall, our study reveals a discrete NAc Tac1 circuit that senses aversive stimuli and drives avoidance behaviors.

Automated summary

Neural circuits in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) play a crucial role in predicting and responding to aversive stimuli. This study identifies the Tac1 neurons in the NAc medial shell as regulators of avoidance responses. The NAcTac1 neurons project to the lateral hypothalamic area and mediate avoidance behaviors. Additionally, the medial prefrontal cortex is involved in regulating avoidance responses through excitatory inputs to the NAc. Overall, this study uncovers a specific NAc Tac1 circuit that detects aversive stimuli and drives avoidance behaviors.