Immediate-early genes in the cerebral mechanisms of emotional stress

Immediate-early genes (IEGs) induction is one of the primary neuronal responses to emotional stress. In experiments with different types of stressors the brain structures with the most pronounced immediate early genes expression were identified. Biochemical, physiological and genetical mechanisms of the IEGs expression in the central nervous system during emotional stress are discussed in the article. Investigation of characteristics and conditions of the IEGs induction showed that immediate early genes induction is crucial for organization of neuroendocrine and hormonal responses during emotional stress. In situations that require adaptation and learning IEGs induction in brain is especially strong. The present data permit us to think that immediate early genes participate in formation of the long-lasting circulation of the negative emotional excitation in limbic system. Animals resistant and predisposed to psycho-emotional stress have different patterns of IEGs expression in conflict situations leading to emotional stresses. Immediate-early genes induction is especially pronounced in brains of sensitive to stress individuals. It is proved that differential approach with regard to individual differences in IEGs expression is preferential in emotional stress research. Neglect of this fact has led to contradictions in results of various authors. The investigation of the IEGs properties can help to define prospective ways of the effective coping with emotional stress and prevention of its dangerous consequences.