Opiate dependence induces cell type-specific plasticity of intrinsic membrane properties in the rat juxtacapsular bed nucleus of stria terminalis (jcBNST).

These findings show that a history of morphine dependence leads to persistent cell type-specific plasticity of the passive membrane properties of a jcBNST neuronal population, leading to an overall increased excitability of such neurons. By altering the activity of extended amygdala circuits where they are embedded, changes in the integration properties of jcBNST neurons may contribute to emotional dysregulation associated with drug dependence and withdrawal.