X-ray kinematics analysis of vaginal scent marking in female Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus).

ABSTRACT: Vaginal marking is a stereotyped scent marking behavior in female Syrian hamsters used to attract male hamsters for mating. Although the modulation of vaginal marking by hormones and odors is well understood, the motor control of this proceptive reproductive behavior remains unknown. Therefore, we used X-ray videography to visualize individual bone movements during vaginal marking. Kinematic analyses revealed several consistent motor patterns of vaginal marking. Despite exhibiting a diversity of trial-to-trial non-marking behaviors (e.g. locomotor stepping), we found that lowering and raising the pelvis consistently corresponded with coordinated flexion and extension cycles of the hip, knee, and tail, suggesting that these movements are fundamental to vaginal marking behavior. Surprisingly

SUBMITTER: Been LE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3261575 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature