A schematic representation of the direct excitatory (left panel) and inhibitory (right panel) inputs to the PVN that modulate stress-induced HPA responses. Though these pathways have been well mapped out in adults, it is unknown if these PVN afferents show adolescent-related changes in structural or functional connectivity. Abbreviations: aBST, anteroventral/fusiform area of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis; DMN, ventrolateral portion of the dorsmedial nucleus; MPO, medial preoptic nucleus; NTS, nucleus of the solitary tract; pBST, posterior bed nucleus of the stria terminalis; peri-PVN, area immediately adjacent to and surrounding the paraventricular nucleus; PVN, paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus.