Animal models of CRH excess and CRH receptor deficiency display altered adaptations to stress

This review highlights new information gained from studies using recently d eveloped animal models that harbor specific alterations in corticotropin-re leasing hormone (CRH) pathways. We discuss features of a transgenic mouse m odel of chronic CRH overexpression and two mouse models that lack either CR H receptor type 1 (CRH-R 1) or type 2 (CRH-R2). Together these models provi de new insights into the role of CRH pathways in promoting stability throug h adaptive changes, a process known as allostasis. (C) 2001 Elsevier scienc e Inc. All rights reserved.