Effects of stress on muscarinic mechanisms

Abstract

Hyperactivity of muscarinic mechanisms may be involved in the patho-physiology of depressive disorders and stress. The literature emphasizes the impact of stress on aminergic networks and muscarinic mechanisms are generally not accorded a significant role in the neurobiology of stress. However, experiments in man and animals indicate that acute and chronic stress activate central muscarinic mechanisms. The literature reporting these results is reviewed.