A neural circuit for male sexual behavior and reward.

ABSTRACT: Male sexual behavior is innate and rewarding. Despite its centrality to reproduction, a molecularly specified neural circuit governing innate male sexual behavior and reward remains to be characterized. We have discovered a developmentally wired neural circuit necessary and sufficient for male mating. This circuit connects chemosensory input to BNSTpr^Tac1 neurons, which innervate POA^Tacr1 neurons that project to centers regulating motor output and reward. Epistasis studies demonstrate that BNSTpr^Tac1 neurons are upstream of POA^Tacr1 neurons, and BNSTpr^Tac1-released substance P following mate recognition potentiates activation of POA^Tacr1 neurons through Tacr1 to initiate mating. Experimental activation of POA^Tacr1

SUBMITTER: Bayless DW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10615179 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature