Anxiogenic and antinociceptive effects induced by corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) injections into the periaqueductal gray are modulated by CRF1 receptor in mice

► Intra-dPAG CRF produces antinociception and increases anxiety in mice exposed to the elevated plus-maze (EPM). ► Anxiogenic and antinociceptive effects produced by intra-dPAG CRF are prevented by local infusion of CRF1 receptor antagonist. ► Blockade of CRF2 receptors in the dPAG does not change the anxiogenic and antinociceptive effects produced by CRF injection. ► dPAG CRF1 (but not CRF2) receptors play an important role in the anxiety and antinociception induced by the local CRF.