Mapping of hypothalamic defensive survival circuits using optogenetics and designer receptors

Defensive behaviours are vital for survival. Animals portray a range of context specific defensive behaviours when faced with a threat. Previous studies have shown that electrical stimulation of the hypothalamus induces aggressive and defensive behaviours, but the exact cell type or neural connections that mediate these effects are unknown. In particular, electrical stimulation and lesion based approaches may activate or destroy axonal projections through the hypothalamus, thus complicating interpretation of these previous experiments. To further investigate the role of the hypothalamic regions in orchestrating defensive behaviours, we have attempted to use targeted and temporarily restricted manipulations in the lateral hypothalamic area (LHA)