Avpr1a, the arginine vasopressin receptor 1A gene, encodes a receptor that interacts with the arginine vasopressin hormone. It is involved in physiological stress regulation, blood pressure control, and child development. It also plays a role in maintaining homeostasis and regulating social behavior. The neuropeptide arginine vasopressin (AVP) which binds to AVPR1A has significant functions in the body, and understanding Avpr1a helps in uncovering the mechanisms of related biological processes [1,2].

In a mouse model study, specific AVPR1A ligand binding was observed in the neonatal mouse periphery in sensory tissues of the head, bone, spinal cord, adrenal cortex, and the uro-anogenital region in wildtype mice, but significantly reduced or absent in AVPR1A knockout mice, suggesting AVPR1A's role in modulating neonatal peripheral physiology and development [2]. In female mice, loss-of-function studies demonstrated that AVPR1A signaling in the central nucleus of the amygdala is required for the effects of chronic social isolation stress on anxiety-related behaviors, while having no effect in males or group-housed females [3].

In conclusion, Avpr1a is crucial for physiological stress regulation, blood pressure, child development, and neonatal peripheral physiology and development. Its role in female-specific susceptibility to chronic social isolation-induced anxiety-related behaviors has also been revealed through mouse models. These findings contribute to understanding the mechanisms underlying these biological processes and potential implications for related health conditions.