Accepted_test

In this study, we investigated the transcriptome profiles in the amygdala of rat strains with high (LT) and low (HT) nervous system excitability. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) identified 152 upregulated and 105 downregulated genes in the amygdala of LT rats compared to HT rats. Key upregulated genes in LT rats include Serpinf2, Nit2, and Pyroxd2, which are associated with inflammatory and metabolic processes, indicating a predisposition to heightened stress responses and neuroinflammation. Downregulated genes in LT rats, such as Rexo4 and Ift88, suggest potential vulnerabilities in DNA repair and intracellular transport.

Previous PCR and ELISA analyses showed increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL1b and TNF in the amygdala of LT rats under stress, reflecting a pronounced neuroinflammatory response. Immunohistochemistry data revealed also a decrease in GFAP-expressing astrocytes in the amygdala of LT rats, suggesting astrocyte depletion in response to stress.

The integration of RNA-seq data with PCR, ELISA, and IHC findings highlights the complex interplay between genetic, metabolic, and immune pathways in modulating stress responses. The observed molecular changes in LT rats support their heightened sensitivity to stress and increased neuroinflammatory responses, which may contribute to more severe stress-related behaviors. Understanding these interactions provides valuable insights into the genetic and neurobiological basis of excitability and stress responses, potentially guiding the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.