Arginine Vasopressin, Synaptic Plasticity, and Brain Networks

Abstract: The arginine vasopressin (AVP) neurohypophysial hormone is synthesized within specific central nervous system sites and axonally transported to multiple areas, acting as a neurotransmitter/neuromodulator. In this context, AVP acts primarily through vasopressin receptors A and B and is involved in regulating complex social cognition and behaviors and basic autonomic function. Many earlier studies have shown that AVP as a neuromodulator affects synaptic plasticity. This review updates our current understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms by which AVP affects synaptic plasticity. Moreover, we discuss AVP modulatory effects on event-related potentials and blood oxygen level-dependent responses in specific brain structures and AVP effects on the network level oscillatory activity. We aimed at providing an overview of the AVP effects on the brain from synaptic to the network level.