The role of CRF receptor subtypes in stress-induced behavioural responses.

The actions of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and CRF-related peptides in the brain and periphery are mediated through multiple receptors. Two CRF receptor subtypes that differ markedly in their pharmacological profiles and anatomical distribution have been identified and characterized. Important advances have been made in understanding CRF and its actions through the development of specific CRF receptor antagonists, application of antisense oligonucleotides, and the production of transgenic mice lacking functional CRF(1) receptors. This chapter describes recent findings with respect to CRF-related peptides and CRF receptors and their role in stress-induced behaviours.