Researchers at Rutgers University have identified a brain mechanism that acts like a dial, controlling the intensity of fight-or-flight responses. By mapping the interaction between the locus coeruleus and the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), they found that the ACC regulates how strongly the body reacts to stress and movement. This could lead to new therapies for Parkinson's disease and alcohol use disorder.
The research
Led by Rafiq Huda and undergraduate Nithik Chintalacheruvu, the team published their findings in Science Advances (May 2025). They used optogenetics in mice to turn ACC activity on and off while measuring pupil diameter and heart rate. When ACC activity was suppressed, arousal responses were muted; when boosted, pupil dilation and heart rate increased dramatically. The ACC appears to set the 'gain' of arousal triggered by the locus coeruleus. The study was funded by Rutgers University and the National Institutes of Health.
Why it matters
For Parkinson's patients, difficulty initiating movement may stem from a faulty connection between intention and autonomic arousal. For those with alcohol use disorder, stress-induced cravings could be dampened by dialing down ACC activity. This research provides a roadmap for non-invasive treatments like neurofeedback or transcranial magnetic stimulation to modulate the ACC.
What you can do
While this is basic research, you can support your brain's arousal regulation with regular exercise, which strengthens autonomic control, and mindfulness practices that train cognitive control. Try stress-reduction techniques to keep your 'dial' balanced.
Source: Neuroscience News
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