Neurochemical Mediation of Affiliation and Aggression Associated With Pair-Bonding.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The neuropeptides vasopressin and corticotropin-releasing factor facilitate, while serotonin inhibits, aggression. How the brain is wired to coordinate interactions between these functionally opposed neurotransmitters to control behavioral states is poorly understood.

Methods

Pair-bonded male prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) were infused with a retrograde tracer, Fluoro-Gold, and tested for affiliation and aggression toward a female partner or novel female subject. Subsequent immunocytochemical experiments examined neuronal activation using Fos and neurochemical/neuroreceptor profiles on brain areas involved in these social behaviors. Finally, a series of behavioral pharmacologic and real-time in vivo brain microdialysis experiments were performed on male prai

SUBMITTER: Gobrogge KL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4992658 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature