Distribution of mGlu8a receptors in the amygdala and preferential targeting of large mGlu1α+ ITC neurons. (A) Immunofluorescence micrograph showing intense mGlu8a receptor reactivity around the BLA and in particular enfolding ITC clusters. Scale bar: 500 μm. (B) This micrograph shows an enlarged view of the IN and the particularly intense labelling at the outer border of this cluster. Scale bar: 100 μm. (C) Likewise, intense mGlu8a receptor labelling can be appreciated around the Imp cluster. Scale bar: 100 μm. (D–F) Low and (G–I) high magnification images depicting mGlu1α+ dendrites and spines of large ITC neurons decorated by dense mGlu8a positive terminals. Scale bar: D–F, 20 μm; G–I, 15 μm. (J, K) Consecutive electron micrographs of a dendritic profile receiving both excitatory (solid arrowhead) and inhibitory (open arrowhead) synapses by axon terminals enriched in mGlu8a receptors (labelled by immunoglod particles) at their active zone. Scale bar: 500 nm. Abbreviations: BA, basal amygdala; d, dendrite; Imp, medial paracapsular ITC cluster; IN, main ITC nucleus; LA, lateral amygdala; s, spine.