Like sisters but not twins - vasopressin and oxytocin excite BNST neurons via cell type-specific expression of oxytocin receptor to reduce anxious arousal.

and are excited by AVP OTR-expressing BNST neurons increase exploration of open spaces and reduce anxious arousal in fear-potentiated startle in male ratsInternal signal-sensitive hypothalamic inputs directly impact BNST excitability via OTR to balance interoceptive signals and defensive behaviors.