[7] AVPR1B was initially described as a novel vasopressin receptor located in the anterior pituitary, where it stimulates ACTH release.

[15] The AVPR1B antagonist, SSR149415, has been shown to have anti-aggressive actions in hamsters[16] and anti-depressant- and anxiety (anxiolytic)-like behaviors in rats.

[18][19] AVPR1B is expressed at high levels in ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas as well as in bronchial carcinoids[20] responsible for the ectopic ACTH syndrome.

Arginine vasopressin influences several symptoms related to affective disorders including significant memory processes, pain sensitivity, synchronization of biological rhythms and the timing and quality of REM sleep.

[7] This interaction takes place as Arginine Vasopressin works with corticotropin releasing hormone to stimulate the pituitary gland to secrete ACTH.

[5] There have been several experiments which have studied these interactions further and revealed AVPR1B's role in psychological disorders and regulatory functions.

[6] AVPR1B has also been associated with higher cortisol responses to psychosocial stress in children with psychiatric disorders compared with carriers of glucocorticoid receptor gene.