Anxiety disorders are among the most common psychiatric disorders. Both genetic and environmental factors, such as chronic psychosocial stress, predispose to anxiety disorders, but the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying anxiety disorders are still poorly understood. We previously identified changes in the brain myelination-related gene expression and myelin thickness after chronic psychosocial stress. These findings indicate that significant modulation of myelin occurs in response to chronic stress. We will now investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying myelin plasticity, stress susceptibility, and anxiety. This project will provide a strong foundation for the rational development of novel therapeutic approaches to anxiety disorders.

2022

2026