Amanda J. Rubin

A large number of studies have demonstrated that the nucleus accumbens (NAC) is a critical site in the neuronal circuits controlling reward responses, motivation, and mood, but the neuronal cell type(s) underlying these processes are not yet known. Identification of the neuronal cell types that regulate depression-like states will guide us in understanding the biological basis of mood and its regulation by diseases like major depressive disorder. Taking advantage of recent findings demonstrating that the serotonin receptor chaperone, p11, is an important molecular regulator of depression-like states, here we identify cholinergic interneurons (CINs) as a primary site of action for p11 in the NAC. Depression-like behavior is observed in mice after decrease of p11 levels in NAC CINs. This phenotype is recapitulated by silencing neuronal transmission in these cells, demonstrating that accumbal cholinergic neuronal activity regulates depression-like behaviors and suggesting that accumbal CIN activity is crucial for the regulation of mood and motivation.

This article will examine the development of the standard for eighth amendment review used in cases challenging the conditions of confinement before and after Wilson. It will begin with a examination of the interpretations of the cruel and unusual punishment clause in the Supreme Court. This article will then analyze the objective standard for eighth amendment review as applied by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in prison condition cases. After an analysis of the subjective standard for eighth amendment review established in Wilson v. Seiter, the article will survey how the Ninth Circuit and other circuits have applied this new standard.