Protocol for selective DREADD-based chemogenetic inhibition of GABAergic amygdala neurons receiving hippocampal projections in rats

Designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) are a highly precise and effective method for manipulating neurons and other excitable cells. Here, we present an approach that combines viral anterograde transsynaptic transport with Gαi/o DREADD neuronal inhibition to control targeted neurons in a rat model. We describe how to implement this technique, from surgical the procedure to the behavioral assay. This protocol enables researchers to manipulate target neurons receiving input from distinct starter structures, thereby helping to unravel selective neuronal circuitry. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Concina et al.¹.