"New Brain Pathway Discovery Paves Way for Potential Panic Attack Cure"

Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified a brain circuit involving PACAP-expressing neurons in the lateral parabrachial nucleus that plays a key role in initiating panic attacks. By inhibiting PACAP signaling in mice, they were able to reduce panic symptoms, paving the way for new treatments for panic disorder. This discovery differentiates panic disorder from other anxiety disorders and could lead to targeted medications. The study, published in Nature Neuroscience, marks a significant step in understanding and potentially treating panic disorder.