The molecular physiology of CRH neurons

► Activation of the CRH neuron by stress results in CRH release coupled to transient induction of transcription. ► All signaling pathways activated by stress in the CRH neuron phosphorylate CREB but only cyclic AMP induces CRH transcription. ► Phosphorylation of CREB and its binding to the CRH promoter CRE is not sufficient for initiation of CRH transcription. ► CRH transcription requires cyclic AMP-dependent activation and nuclear translocation of the CREB co-activator, TORC. ► Glucocorticoid feedback and intraneuronal autoregulatory mechanisms limit the duration of CRH transcriptional responses.