701
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Frye CA, Bo E, Calamandrei G, Calzà L, Dessì-Fulgheri F, Fernández M, Fusani L, Kah O, Kajta M, Le Page Y, Patisaul HB, Venerosi A, Wojtowicz AK, Panzica GC. Endocrine disrupters: a review of some sources, effects, and mechanisms of actions on behaviour and neuroendocrine systems. J Neuroendocrinol 2012; 24:144-59. [PMID: 21951193 PMCID: PMC3245362 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2011.02229.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 273] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Some environmental contaminants interact with hormones and may exert adverse consequences as a result of their actions as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Exposure in people is typically a result of contamination of the food chain, inhalation of contaminated house dust or occupational exposure. EDCs include pesticides and herbicides (such as dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane or its metabolites), methoxychlor, biocides, heat stabilisers and chemical catalysts (such as tributyltin), plastic contaminants (e.g. bisphenol A), pharmaceuticals (i.e. diethylstilbestrol; 17α-ethinylestradiol) or dietary components (such as phytoestrogens). The goal of this review is to address the sources, effects and actions of EDCs, with an emphasis on topics discussed at the International Congress on Steroids and the Nervous System. EDCs may alter reproductively-relevant or nonreproductive, sexually-dimorphic behaviours. In addition, EDCs may have significant effects on neurodevelopmental processes, influencing the morphology of sexually-dimorphic cerebral circuits. Exposure to EDCs is more dangerous if it occurs during specific 'critical periods' of life, such as intrauterine, perinatal, juvenile or puberty periods, when organisms are more sensitive to hormonal disruption, compared to other periods. However, exposure to EDCs in adulthood can also alter physiology. Several EDCs are xenoestrogens, which can alter serum lipid concentrations or metabolism enzymes that are necessary for converting cholesterol to steroid hormones. This can ultimately alter the production of oestradiol and/or other steroids. Finally, many EDCs may have actions via (or independent of) classic actions at cognate steroid receptors. EDCs may have effects through numerous other substrates, such as the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor and the retinoid X receptor, signal transduction pathways, calcium influx and/or neurotransmitter receptors. Thus, EDCs, from varied sources, may have organisational effects during development and/or activational effects in adulthood that influence sexually-dimorphic, reproductively-relevant processes or other functions, by mimicking, antagonising or altering steroidal actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Frye
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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702
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Higashida H, Yokoyama S, Munesue T, Kikuchi M, Minabe Y, Lopatina O. CD38 gene knockout juvenile mice: a model of oxytocin signal defects in autism. Biol Pharm Bull 2011; 34:1369-72. [PMID: 21881219 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.34.1369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) in the hypothalamus is the biological basis of social recognition, trust, and bonding. We showed that CD38, a leukaemia cell marker, plays an important role in the hypothalamus in the process of OXT release in adult mice. Disruption of Cd38 (Cd38(-/-)) produced impairment of maternal behavior and male social recognition in mice, similar to the behavior observed in Oxt and OXT receptor (Oxtr) gene knockout (Oxt(-/-) and Oxtr(-/-), respectively) mice. Locomotor activity induced by separation from the dam was higher and the number of ultrasonic vocalization (USV) calls was lower in Cd38(-/-) than Cd38(+/+) pups. These phenotypes seemed to be caused by the high plasma OXT levels during development from neonates to 3-week-old juvenile mice. ADP-ribosyl cyclase activity was markedly lower in the knockout mice from birth, suggesting that weaning for mice is a critical time window of differentiating plasma OXT. Contribution by breastfeeding was an important exogenous source for regulating plasma OXT before weaning by the presence of OXT in milk and the dam's mammary glands. The dissimilarity of Cd38(-/-) infant behaviour to Oxt(-/-) or Oxtr(-/-) mice can be explained partly by this exogenous source of OXT. These results suggest that secretion of OXT into the brain in a CD38-dependent manner may play an important role in the development of social behavior, and mice with OXT signalling deficiency, including Cd38(-/-), Oxt(-/-) and Oxtr(-/-) mice are good animal models for developmental disorders, such as autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruhiro Higashida
- Department of Biophysical Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan.
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703
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Bergel E. Reflections on Don Juan and on the utility of the unhappy love affair. Bull Menninger Clin 2011; 75:344-71. [PMID: 22166130 DOI: 10.1521/bumc.2011.75.4.344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Based on an unusual clinical experience of a teenage boy in child psychotherapy, two conclusions are proposed: (1) that the extremely unhappy, early love affairs that occur in most men's lives serve a valuable function in helping them separate from their mothers sufficiently to be able to realistically relate to appropriate marriage partners, and (2) that some Don Juans start new relationships in order to break them off, rather than the reverse.
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704
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Oxytocin directly administered into the nucleus accumbens core or subthalamic nucleus attenuates methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference. Behav Brain Res 2011; 228:185-93. [PMID: 22155611 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2011.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2011] [Revised: 11/24/2011] [Accepted: 11/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence indicates that the neuropeptide oxytocin (OXY) may modulate reward-related behavioural responses to methamphetamine (METH) administration. Limited research has examined the effect of OXY on METH-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) and little is known about the neural mechanisms involved. A Fos immunohistochemistry study recently demonstrated that peripheral OXY administration reduced METH-induced Fos expression within the nucleus accumbens (NAc) core and subthalamic nucleus (STh) in rats. The current study aimed to (i) investigate the effect of systemically administered OXY on METH-induced CPP, (ii) determine the effectiveness of a single-trial CPP procedure with METH, in order to (iii) evaluate whether pretreatment with OXY injected directly into the NAc core or the STh attenuates METH-induced CPP. Results showed that male Sprague Dawley rats learned to associate unique compartmental cues with METH (1 mg/kg, i.p.) such that they spent more time in the METH-paired compartment and less time in the saline-paired compartment. Pretreatment with systemic OXY (0.6 mg, i.p.), or OXY (0.6 ng, i.c.) microinjected into the NAc core or the STh prior to METH administration attenuated the formation of a CPP to METH. This provides further evidence that OXY acts within either the NAc core or the STh to reduce the rewarding effects of METH administration.
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705
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de Boer A, van Buel EM, Ter Horst GJ. Love is more than just a kiss: a neurobiological perspective on love and affection. Neuroscience 2011; 201:114-24. [PMID: 22119059 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2011] [Revised: 10/18/2011] [Accepted: 11/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Love, attachment, and truth of human monogamy have become important research themes in neuroscience. After the introduction of functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET), neuroscientists have demonstrated increased interest in the neurobiology and neurochemistry of emotions, including love and affection. Neurobiologists have studied pair-bonding mechanisms in animal models of mate choice to elucidate neurochemical mechanisms underlying attachment and showed possible roles for oxytocin, vasopressin, and dopamine and their receptors in pair-bonding and monogamy. Unresolved is whether these substances are also critically involved in human attachment. The limited number of available imaging studies on love and affection is hampered by selection bias on gender, duration of a love affair, and cultural differences. Brain activity patterns associated with romantic love, shown with fMRI, overlapped with regions expressing oxytocin receptors in the animal models, but definite proof for a role of oxytocin in human attachment is still lacking. There is also evidence for a role of serotonin, cortisol, nerve growth factor, and testosterone in love and attachment. Changes in brain activity related to the various stages of a love affair, gender, and cultural differences are unresolved and will probably become important research themes in this field in the near future. In this review we give a resume of the current knowledge of the neurobiology of love and attachment and we discuss in brief the truth of human monogamy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A de Boer
- Neuroimaging Center, University Medical Center Groningen, University Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 2, 9713 AW Groningen, The Netherlands
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706
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Kojima S, Alberts JR. Oxytocin mediates the acquisition of filial, odor-guided huddling for maternally-associated odor in preweanling rats. Horm Behav 2011; 60:549-58. [PMID: 21872599 PMCID: PMC3866017 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2011.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2011] [Revised: 07/18/2011] [Accepted: 08/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The present study was designed to examine possible roles of oxytocin (OT) in the acquisition of a filial huddling preference in preweanling rats. We used a procedure in which a scented, foster mother can induce an odor-guided huddling preference in preweanling pups, following a single, 2-h-long co-habitation (Kojima and Alberts, 2009, 2011). This single, discrete period for preference learning enables us to observe the mother-pup interactions that establish the pups' preferences and to intervene with experimental manipulations. Four, 14-day-old littermates interacted with a scented foster mother that provided maternal care during a 2-h session. Two of the pups were pretreated with an intracerebroventricular injection of OT or an oxytocin antagonist (OTA), and the others received a vehicle injection. Filial preference for a maternally-paired odor was measured in a huddling test the next day. OT is necessary for acquisition of the filial preference: The preference learning was blocked in the pups treated with OTA, but not in their vehicle-treated littermates who experienced the same mother at the same time. Injection with exogenous OT did not augment the pups' preference. Manipulating pups' central OT also altered the contact interactions of the mother and pups. When some pups received OT, mother-litter aggregations formed as frequently and with similar combinations of bodies, but contact aggregations were significantly more cohesive than when some pups in the litter received OTA. We discuss dual, behavioral and neuroendocrine roles of OT in social learning by preweanling rats.
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707
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Castelli FR, Kelley RA, Keane B, Solomon NG. Female prairie voles show social and sexual preferences for males with longer avpr1a microsatellite alleles. Anim Behav 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2011.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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708
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Miczek KA, Nikulina EM, Takahashi A, Covington HE, Yap JJ, Boyson CO, Shimamoto A, de Almeida RMM. Gene expression in aminergic and peptidergic cells during aggression and defeat: relevance to violence, depression and drug abuse. Behav Genet 2011; 41:787-802. [PMID: 21416141 PMCID: PMC3806208 DOI: 10.1007/s10519-011-9462-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2011] [Accepted: 03/04/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In this review, we examine how experiences in social confrontations alter gene expression in mesocorticolimbic cells. The focus is on the target of attack and threat due to the prominent role of social defeat stress in the study of coping mechanisms and victimization. The initial operational definition of the socially defeated mouse by Ginsburg and Allee (1942) enabled the characterization of key endocrine, cardiovascular, and metabolic events during the initial response to an aggressive opponent and during the ensuing adaptations. Brief episodes of social defeat stress induce an augmented response to stimulant challenge as reflected by increased locomotion and increased extracellular dopamine (DA) in the nucleus accumbens (NAC). Cells in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) that project to the NAC were more active as indicated by increased expression of c-fos and Fos-immunoreactivity and BDNF. Intermittent episodes of social defeat stress result in increased mRNA for MOR in brainstem and limbic structures. These behavioral and neurobiological indices of sensitization persist for several months after the stress experience. The episodically defeated rats also self-administered intravenous cocaine during continuous access for 24 h ("binge"). By contrast, continuous social stress, particularly in the form of social subordination stress, leads to reduced appetite, compromised endocrine activities, and cardiovascular and metabolic abnormalities, and prefer sweets less as index of anhedonia. Cocaine challenges in subordinate rats result in a blunted psychomotor stimulant response and a reduced DA release in NAC. Subordinate rats self-administer cocaine less during continuous access conditions. These contrasting patterns of social stress result from continuous vs. intermittent exposure to social stress, suggesting divergent neuroadaptations for increased vulnerability to cocaine self-administration vs. deteriorated reward mechanisms characteristic of depressive-like profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus A Miczek
- Department of Psychology, Tufts University, 530 Boston Ave. (Bacon Hall), Medford, MA 02155, USA.
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709
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Keebaugh AC, Young LJ. Increasing oxytocin receptor expression in the nucleus accumbens of pre-pubertal female prairie voles enhances alloparental responsiveness and partner preference formation as adults. Horm Behav 2011; 60:498-504. [PMID: 21851821 PMCID: PMC3210320 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2011.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2011] [Revised: 07/25/2011] [Accepted: 07/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin receptors (OXTR) in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) promote alloparental behavior and partner preference formation in female prairie voles. Within the NAcc there is significant individual variation in OXTR binding and virgin juvenile and adult females with a high density of OXTR in the NAcc display an elevated propensity to engage in alloparental behavior toward novel pups. Over-expression of OXTR in the NAcc of adult female prairie voles using viral vector gene transfer facilitates partner preference formation, but has no effect on alloparental behavior, even though OXTR antagonists infused into the NAcc blocks both behaviors. We therefore hypothesized that long-term increases in OXTR signaling during development may underlie the relationship between adult OXTR density in the NAcc and alloparental behavior. To test this hypothesis, we used viral vector gene transfer to increase OXTR density in the NAcc of prepubertal, 21day old female prairie voles and tested for both alloparental behavior and partner preference formation as adults. Consistent with a developmental impact of OXTR signaling, adults over-expressing OXTR from weaning display both increased alloparental behavior and partner preference formation. Thus, the relatively acute impact of elevated OXTR signaling in the NAcc on partner preference formation previously reported appears to be dissociable from the effects of longer term, developmentally relevant OXTR signaling necessary for modulating alloparental behavior. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that oxytocin can have both long-term "organizational" effects as well as acute "activational" effects on affiliative behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaine C Keebaugh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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710
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McGonigle P. Peptide therapeutics for CNS indications. Biochem Pharmacol 2011; 83:559-66. [PMID: 22051078 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2011.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2011] [Revised: 10/13/2011] [Accepted: 10/17/2011] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Neuropeptides play a crucial role in the normal function of the central nervous system and peptide receptors hold great promise as therapeutic targets for the treatment of several CNS disorders. In general, the development of peptide therapeutics has been limited by the lack of drug-like properties of peptides and this has made it very difficult to transform them into marketable therapeutic molecules. Some of these challenges include poor in vivo stability, poor solubility, incompatibility with oral administration, shelf stability, cost of manufacture. Recent technical advances have overcome many of these limitations and have led to rapid growth in the development of peptides for a wide range of therapeutic indications such as diabetes, cancer and pain. This review examines the therapeutic potential of peptide agonists for the treatment of major CNS disorders such as schizophrenia, anxiety, depression and autism. Both clinical and preclinical data has been accumulated supporting the potential utility of agonists at central neurotensin, cholecystokinin, neuropeptide Y and oxytocin receptors. Some of the successful approaches that have been developed to increase the stability and longevity of peptides in vivo and improve their delivery are also described and potential strategies for overcoming the major challenge that is unique to CNS therapeutics, penetration of the blood-brain barrier, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul McGonigle
- PsychoGenics Inc., 765 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA.
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711
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Pain sensitivity and vasopressin analgesia are mediated by a gene-sex-environment interaction. Nat Neurosci 2011; 14:1569-73. [PMID: 22019732 PMCID: PMC3225498 DOI: 10.1038/nn.2941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2011] [Accepted: 08/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative trait locus mapping of chemical/inflammatory pain in the mouse identified the Avpr1a gene, encoding the vasopressin-1A receptor (V1AR), as responsible for strain-dependent pain sensitivity to formalin and capsaicin. A genetic association study in humans revealed the influence of a single nucleotide polymorphism (rs10877969) within AVPR1A on capsaicin pain levels, but only in male subjects reporting stress at the time of testing. The analgesic efficacy of the vasopressin analog, desmopressin, revealed a similar interaction between the drug and acute stress, as desmopressin inhibition of capsaicin pain was seen only in non-stressed subjects. Additional experiments in mice confirmed the male-specific interaction of V1AR and stress, leading to the conclusion that vasopressin activates endogenous analgesia mechanisms unless they have already been activated by stress. These findings represent the first explicit demonstration of analgesic efficacy depending on the emotional state of the recipient, and illustrate the heuristic power of a bench-to-bedside-to-bench translational strategy.
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712
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Burkett JP, Spiegel LL, Inoue K, Murphy AZ, Young LJ. Activation of μ-opioid receptors in the dorsal striatum is necessary for adult social attachment in monogamous prairie voles. Neuropsychopharmacology 2011; 36:2200-10. [PMID: 21734650 PMCID: PMC3176565 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2011.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Despite significant evidence that opioids are involved in attachment by mediating social reward and motivation, the role of opioids in the formation of adult social attachments has not been explored. We used the socially monogamous prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) to explore the role of endogenous opioids in social bonding by examining partner preference formation in female prairie voles. We hypothesized that μ-opioid receptors (MORs) in the striatum have a critical role in partner preference formation. We therefore predicted that peripheral administration of an opioid receptor antagonist would inhibit partner preference formation, and more specifically, that μ-opioid selective receptor blockade within the striatum would inhibit partner preference formation. To test our hypotheses, we first administered the non-selective opioid antagonist naltrexone peripherally to females during an 18-h cohabitation with a male and later tested the female with a partner preference test (PPT). Females showed a dose schedule-dependent decrease in partner preference in the PPT, with females in the continuous dose group displaying stranger preferences. Next, we administered microinjections of the MOR selective antagonist D-Phe-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Arg-Thr-Pen-Thr-NH2 (CTAP) into either the nucleus accumbens shell (NAS) or the caudate-putamen (CP) immediately before a 24-h cohabitation with a male, and later tested the female with a PPT. Females receiving CTAP into the CP, but not the NAS, showed no preference in the PPT, indicating an inhibition of partner preference formation. We show here for the first time that MORs modulate partner preference formation in female prairie voles by acting in the CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P Burkett
- Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA,Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lauren L Spiegel
- Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kiyoshi Inoue
- Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anne Z Murphy
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Atlanta, GA, USA,Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Larry J Young
- Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA,Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Atlanta, GA, USA,Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, 954 Gatewood Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA. Tel: +1 404 727 8272; Fax: +1 404 727 8070; E-mail:
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713
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Gordon I, Martin C, Feldman R, Leckman JF. Oxytocin and social motivation. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2011; 1:471-93. [PMID: 21984889 PMCID: PMC3185363 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2011.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2011] [Revised: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 07/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans are fundamentally social creatures who are ‘motivated’ to be with others. In this review we examine the role of oxytocin (OT) as it relates to social motivation. OT is synthesized in the brain and throughout the body, including in the heart, thymus, gastrointestinal tract, as well as reproductive organs. The distribution of the OT receptor (OTR) system in both the brain and periphery is even more far-reaching and its expression is subject to changes over the course of development. OTR expression is also sensitive to changes in the external environment and the internal somatic world. The OT system functions as an important element within a complex, developmentally sensitive biobehavioral system. Other elements include sensory inputs, the salience, reward, and threat detection pathways, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal stress response axis. Despite an ever expanding scientific literature, key unresolved questions remain concerning the interplay of the central and peripheral components of this complex biobehavioral system that dynamically engages the brain and the body as humans interact with social partners over the course of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilanit Gordon
- Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Carina Martin
- Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ruth Feldman
- Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Psychology Department and Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar Ilan University, Israel
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714
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Dabrowska J, Hazra R, Ahern TH, Guo JD, McDonald AJ, Mascagni F, Muller JF, Young LJ, Rainnie DG. Neuroanatomical evidence for reciprocal regulation of the corticotrophin-releasing factor and oxytocin systems in the hypothalamus and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis of the rat: Implications for balancing stress and affect. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2011; 36:1312-26. [PMID: 21481539 PMCID: PMC3142325 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2011.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2010] [Revised: 03/04/2011] [Accepted: 03/08/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Activation of corticotrophin releasing factor (CRF) neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) is necessary for establishing the classic endocrine response to stress, while activation of forebrain CRF neurons mediates affective components of the stress response. Previous studies have reported that mRNA for CRF2 receptor (CRFR2) is expressed in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) as well as hypothalamic nuclei, but little is known about the localization and cellular distribution of CRFR2 in these regions. Using immunofluorescence with confocal microscopy, as well as electron microscopy, we demonstrate that in the BNST CRFR2-immunoreactive fibers represent moderate to strong labeling on axons terminals. Dual-immunofluorescence demonstrated that CRFR2-fibers co-localize oxytocin (OT), but not arginine-vasopressin (AVP), and make perisomatic contacts with CRF neurons. Dual-immunofluorescence and single cell RT-PCR demonstrate that in the hypothalamus, CRFR2 immunoreactivity and mRNA are found in OT, but not in CRF or AVP-neurons. Furthermore, CRF neurons of the PVN and BNST express mRNA for the oxytocin receptor, while the majority of OT/CRFR2 neurons in the hypothalamus do not. Finally, using adenoviral-based anterograde tracing of PVN neurons, we show that OT/CRFR2-immunoreactive fibers observed in the BNST originate in the PVN. Our results strongly suggest that CRFR2 located on oxytocinergic neurons and axon terminals might regulate the release of this neuropeptide and hence might be a crucial part of potential feedback loop between the hypothalamic oxytocin system and the forebrain CRF system that could significantly impact affective and social behaviors, in particular during times of stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Dabrowska
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 300329
| | - Rimi Hazra
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 300329
| | - Todd H. Ahern
- Center for Neuroendocrine Studies and Department of Psychology, Tobin Hall, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003
| | - Ji-Dong Guo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 300329
| | - Alexander J. McDonald
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Franco Mascagni
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Jay F. Muller
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Larry J. Young
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 300329
| | - Donald G. Rainnie
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Division of Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychiatric Disorders, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 300329
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715
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716
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SCHRADIN CARSTEN, LINDHOLM ANNAK, JOHANNESEN JES, SCHOEPF IVANA, YUEN CHIHANG, KÖNIG BARBARA, PILLAY NEVILLE. Social flexibility and social evolution in mammals: a case study of the African striped mouse (Rhabdomys pumilio). Mol Ecol 2011; 21:541-53. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2011.05256.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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717
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Holt-Lunstad J, Birmingham W, Light KC. The influence of depressive symptomatology and perceived stress on plasma and salivary oxytocin before, during and after a support enhancement intervention. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2011; 36:1249-56. [PMID: 21507578 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2011.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2010] [Revised: 02/15/2011] [Accepted: 03/15/2011] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) activity increases in response to stress as well as to warm social contact. Subclinical depression is associated with higher stress but less reward from social contacts. The present investigation was intended to examine whether husbands and wives with high depressive symptomatology scores have increased plasma and salivary OT that may be mediated partly by higher perceived stress, and also to assess whether an intervention to convey partner support through "warm touch" may reduce effects of depressive symptoms on OT. In this study, 34 healthy married couples (n=68) ages 20-39 provided self reports of depressive symptoms (CESD) and stress (Perceived Stress Scale) before being randomly assigned to a 4-week intervention study enhancing partner support through "warm touch", or to a "behavior monitoring" control group. Plasma oxytocin levels were obtained pre- and post-intervention, while salivary oxytocin was taken at home during week 1 and week 4. Results revealed that subjects with higher depressive symptoms scores had higher plasma OT levels at pre-intervention, and higher salivary OT levels at home during week 1 (p<.05). Plasma OT results were moderated by gender such that plasma OT levels were highest among females high in depressive symptomology. Higher perceived stress was also linked to both higher depressive symptomatology (r=+65, p<.0001) and plasma OT (p< .05) and a significant mediator. During the intervention, salivary OT remained elevated among subjects high in depressive symptomatology in the control group but not the intervention group. At post-intervention, plasma OT levels in subjects with vs. without depressive symptomatology no longer differed. Results indicate that subclinical depression is associated with elevated plasma and salivary OT levels, which may be mediated in part by increased stress. OT differences linked to subclinical depression were minimized by the warm touch intervention.
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718
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Triant DA, Hayes LD. Molecular approaches in behavioural research: a cautionary note regarding mitochondrial transfers to the nucleus (numts). Anim Behav 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2011.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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719
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Elevated cardiac oxidative stress in newborn rats from mothers treated with atosiban. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2011; 285:655-61. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-011-2069-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2011] [Accepted: 08/11/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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720
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Meyer-Lindenberg A, Domes G, Kirsch P, Heinrichs M. Oxytocin and vasopressin in the human brain: social neuropeptides for translational medicine. Nat Rev Neurosci 2011; 12:524-38. [PMID: 21852800 DOI: 10.1038/nrn3044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1159] [Impact Index Per Article: 89.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptides oxytocin (OXT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) are evolutionarily highly conserved mediators in the regulation of complex social cognition and behaviour. Recent studies have investigated the effects of OXT and AVP on human social interaction, the genetic mechanisms of inter-individual variation in social neuropeptide signalling and the actions of OXT and AVP in the human brain as revealed by neuroimaging. These data have advanced our understanding of the mechanisms by which these neuropeptides contribute to human social behaviour. OXT and AVP are emerging as targets for novel treatment approaches--particularly in synergistic combination with psychotherapy--for mental disorders characterized by social dysfunction, such as autism, social anxiety disorder, borderline personality disorder and schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Square J5, D-68159 Mannheim, Germany.
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721
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D-cycloserine facilitates socially reinforced learning in an animal model relevant to autism spectrum disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2011; 70:298-304. [PMID: 21481844 PMCID: PMC3164818 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2011.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2010] [Revised: 01/07/2011] [Accepted: 01/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are no drugs that specifically target the social deficits of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This may be due to a lack of behavioral paradigms in animal models relevant to ASD. Partner preference formation in the prairie vole represents a social cognitive process involving socially reinforced learning. D-cycloserine (DCS) is a cognitive enhancer that acts at the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor to promote learning. If DCS enhances socially reinforced learning in the partner preference paradigm, it may be useful in combination with behavioral therapies for enhancing social functioning in ASD. METHODS Female prairie and meadow voles were given DCS either peripherally or directly into one of three brain regions: nucleus accumbens, amygdala, or caudate putamen. Subjects were then cohabited with a male vole under conditions that do not typically yield a partner preference. The development of a preference for that stimulus male vole over a novel male vole was assessed using a partner preference test. RESULTS A low dose of DCS administered peripherally enhanced preference formation in prairie voles but not meadow voles under conditions in which it would not otherwise occur. These effects were replicated in prairie voles by microinfusions of DCS into the nucleus accumbens, which is involved in reinforcement learning, and the amygdala, which is involved in social information processing. CONCLUSIONS Partner preference in the prairie vole may provide a behavioral paradigm with face, construct, and predictive validity for identifying prosocial pharmacotherapeutics. D-cycloserine may be a viable treatment strategy for social deficits of ASD when paired with social behavioral therapy.
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722
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O'Connell LA, Hofmann HA. Genes, hormones, and circuits: an integrative approach to study the evolution of social behavior. Front Neuroendocrinol 2011; 32:320-35. [PMID: 21163292 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2010.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2010] [Revised: 12/03/2010] [Accepted: 12/09/2010] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Tremendous progress has been made in our understanding of the ultimate and proximate mechanisms underlying social behavior, yet an integrative evolutionary analysis of its underpinnings has been difficult. In this review, we propose that modern genomic approaches can facilitate such studies by integrating four approaches to brain and behavior studies: (1) animals face many challenges and opportunities that are ecologically and socially equivalent across species; (2) they respond with species-specific, yet quantifiable and comparable approach and avoidance behaviors; (3) these behaviors in turn are regulated by gene modules and neurochemical codes; and (4) these behaviors are governed by brain circuits such as the mesolimbic reward system and the social behavior network. For each approach, we discuss genomic and other studies that have shed light on various aspects of social behavior and its underpinnings and suggest promising avenues for future research into the evolution of neuroethological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A O'Connell
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Section of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78705, USA
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723
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Abstract
The complexity of nervous systems alters the evolvability of behaviour. Complex nervous systems are phylogenetically constrained; nevertheless particular species-specific behaviours have repeatedly evolved, suggesting a predisposition towards those behaviours. Independently evolved behaviours in animals that share a common neural architecture are generally produced by homologous neural structures, homologous neural pathways and even in the case of some invertebrates, homologous identified neurons. Such parallel evolution has been documented in the chromatic sensitivity of visual systems, motor behaviours and complex social behaviours such as pair-bonding. The appearance of homoplasious behaviours produced by homologous neural substrates suggests that there might be features of these nervous systems that favoured the repeated evolution of particular behaviours. Neuromodulation may be one such feature because it allows anatomically defined neural circuitry to be re-purposed. The developmental, genetic and physiological mechanisms that contribute to nervous system complexity may also bias the evolution of behaviour, thereby affecting the evolvability of species-specific behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul S Katz
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, PO Box 5030, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA.
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724
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Dewitte M. Different perspectives on the sex-attachment link: towards an emotion-motivational account. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2011; 49:105-124. [PMID: 22380584 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2011.576351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Although the link between sex and attachment was made decades ago (Hazan & Shaver, 1987), theories on sexual and attachment functioning have been developed in relative isolation. Recent efforts to integrate both literatures have been complicated by the fact that the sex-attachment link has been approached from very different perspectives, including biological, evolutionary, developmental, cognitive, and social psychology approaches. Also, at the empirical level, research on sex and attachment lacks overarching synthesis. This article gives an overview of the most important theoretical ideas and empirical insights on sex and attachment. It starts with describing general models that approach the sex-attachment link from an evolutionary and neurobiological perspective. Then, it summarizes theoretical and empirical ideas of attachment theory and describes how attachment style differences are manifested in intimate and sexual relationships. Research so far has been limited to studying the predicted link between sex and attachment in terms of broad descriptives, and it would benefit the literature to specify the processes and pathways that mediate the sex-attachment link. After a short discussion of the functional similarities between the sexual and the attachment systems, the article describes some specific--dynamical--models that focus on the emotional and cognitive-motivational processes through which attachment schemas influence sexual experiences. Such an emotion-motivational perspective on sex and attachment can help to organize theoretical ideas and empirical findings and eventually promote an integrative view on how attachment dynamics can interact with sexual experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke Dewitte
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Belgium.
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725
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Bradley BJ, Lawler RR. Linking genotypes, phenotypes, and fitness in wild primate populations. Evol Anthropol 2011; 20:104-19. [DOI: 10.1002/evan.20306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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726
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Leuner B, Caponiti JM, Gould E. Oxytocin stimulates adult neurogenesis even under conditions of stress and elevated glucocorticoids. Hippocampus 2011; 22:861-8. [PMID: 21692136 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.20947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin has been linked to social behavior, including social recognition, pair bonding and parenting, but its potential role in promoting neuronal growth has not been investigated. We show here that oxytocin, but not vasopressin, stimulates both cell proliferation and adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus of rats. Oxytocin is also capable of stimulating adult neurogenesis in rats subjected to glucocorticoid administration or cold water swim stress. These findings suggest that oxytocin stimulates neuronal growth and may protect against the suppressive effects of stress hormones on hippocampal plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Leuner
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, USA
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727
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Triana-Del Rio R, Montero-Domínguez F, Cibrian-Llanderal T, Tecamachaltzi-Silvaran MB, Garcia LI, Manzo J, Hernandez ME, Coria-Avila GA. Same-sex cohabitation under the effects of quinpirole induces a conditioned socio-sexual partner preference in males, but not in female rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2011; 99:604-13. [PMID: 21704064 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2011.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2011] [Revised: 05/30/2011] [Accepted: 06/06/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The effects of the dopamine D2-type receptor agonist quinpirole (QNP) were examined on the development of conditioned same-sex partner preference induced by cohabitation in rats. In Experiment 1, males received either saline or QNP (1.25mg/kg) and cohabited during three trials with almond-scented stimulus males that were sexually naïve. In Experiment 2, males received six trials, and in Experiment 3 received three trials with sexually expert stimulus males. During a final drug-free preference test, males chose between the familiar or a novel male partner. In Experiments 1, 2 and 3 only QNP-treated males displayed a social preference for the familiar male, observed with more time spent together. In Experiment 3 males also displayed a sexual preference observed with more non-contact erections when were exposed to their male partner. In Experiment 4 we tested the effects on OVX, E+P primed females that received 1 systemic injection of either saline or QNP during three conditioning trials. In Experiment 5, females received 2 injections 12-h apart during each trial. Results indicated that both saline and QNP-treated females failed to develop partner preference. These data demonstrate that enhanced D2-type receptor activity during cohabitation facilitates the development of conditioned same-sex partner preference in males, but not in female rats. We discuss the implications for same-sex partner preferences.
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728
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Ophir AG. Towards meeting Tinbergen's challenge. Horm Behav 2011; 60:22-7. [PMID: 21497602 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2011.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2011] [Revised: 03/17/2011] [Accepted: 03/23/2011] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander G Ophir
- Department of Zoology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
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729
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Depue RA, Fu Y. Neurogenetic and experiential processes underlying major personality traits: implications for modelling personality disorders. Int Rev Psychiatry 2011; 23:258-81. [PMID: 21923227 DOI: 10.3109/09540261.2011.599315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Abstract The association of personality traits to personality disorders (PDs) is assumed by many to fit a dimensional model, where PDs emerge at the extremes of personality dimensions. Nevertheless, attempts to demonstrate such an association have been empirically disappointing and conceptually unilluminating. In this article we attempt to extend such models by outlining the neurobehavioural systems that underlie major personality traits, and highlight the evidence that they are subject to experience-dependent modification that can be enduring through effects on genetic expression, mainly through processes known as epigenetics. It is through such processes that risk for personality disorder may be modified by experience at any point in development, but perhaps especially during early critical periods of development. We conclude by presenting a novel multidimensional model of PDs that relies on the concepts developed earlier in the article. Our goal is to provide a guide for research on the psychobiological nature and pharmacological treatment of PDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Depue
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Personality, Department of Human Development, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA.
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730
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Dammann P, Šumbera R, Massmann C, Scherag A, Burda H. Extended longevity of reproductives appears to be common in Fukomys mole-rats (Rodentia, Bathyergidae). PLoS One 2011; 6:e18757. [PMID: 21533255 PMCID: PMC3076438 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0018757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2010] [Accepted: 03/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
African mole-rats (Bathyergidae, Rodentia) contain several social, cooperatively breeding species with low extrinsic mortality and unusually high longevity. All social bathyergids live in multigenerational families where reproduction is skewed towards a few breeding individuals. Most of their offspring remain as reproductively inactive “helpers” in their natal families, often for several years. This “reproductive subdivision” of mole-rat societies might be of interest for ageing research, as in at least one social bathyergid (Ansell's mole-rats Fukomys anselli), breeders have been shown to age significantly slower than non-breeders. These animals thus provide excellent conditions for studying the epigenetics of senescence by comparing divergent longevities within the same genotypes without the inescapable short-comings of inter-species comparisons. It has been claimed that many if not all social mole-rat species may have evolved similar ageing patterns, too. However, this remains unclear on account of the scarcity of reliable datasets on the subject. We therefore analyzed a 20-year breeding record of Giant mole-rats Fukomys mechowii, another social bathyergid species. We found that breeders indeed lived significantly longer than helpers (ca. 1.5–2.2fold depending on the sex), irrespective of social rank or other potentially confounding factors. Considering the phylogenetic positions of F. mechowii and F. anselli and unpublished data on a third Fukomys-species (F. damarensis) showing essentially the same pattern, it seems probable that the reversal of the classic trade-off between somatic maintenance and sexual reproduction is characteristic of the whole genus and hence of the vast majority of social mole-rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Dammann
- Department of General Zoology, Institute of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
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731
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Ishak WW, Kahloon M, Fakhry H. Oxytocin role in enhancing well-being: a literature review. J Affect Disord 2011; 130:1-9. [PMID: 20584551 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2010.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2010] [Accepted: 06/03/2010] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Oxytocin (OT) has long been implicated in maternal bonding, sexual behavior and social affiliation behaviors. This paper reviews the wide effects of oxytocin and its key role in well-being. METHODS Studies were identified through Medline, Pubmed, and PsychINFO search of the English-language literature from the past sixty years (1959 to 2009) using the key word "oxytocin" in human studies. Of the 287 articles identified, 102 were selected for review. RESULTS OT induces a general sense of well-being including calm, improved social interactions, increased trust, and reduced fear as well as endocrine and physiological changes. Some central effects of OT are temporary and its release is associated with induction of secondary biochemical actions which mediate long-term benefits including blood pressure reduction, calm and affiliative behavior. As OT release is augmented by touch and physiological support so the hormone is involved in both the cause and benefits of social interactions. Just as OT has widespread effects in factors encompassing well-being, its dysfunction is associated with morbidity and decreased quality of life as observed neuropsychiatric conditions such as autism, schizophrenia and social phobias. CONCLUSIONS Oxytocin (OT) is of potential use in enhancing interpersonal and individual well-being, and might have more applications in neuropsychiatric disorders especially those characterized by persistent fear, repetitive behavior, reduced trust and avoidance of social interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waguih William Ishak
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, United States.
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732
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O’Connell LA, Ding JH, Ryan MJ, Hofmann HA. Neural distribution of the nuclear progesterone receptor in the túngara frog, Physalaemus pustulosus. J Chem Neuroanat 2011; 41:137-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2011.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2010] [Revised: 12/24/2010] [Accepted: 01/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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733
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Pfaff D, Waters E, Khan Q, Zhang X, Numan M. Minireview: estrogen receptor-initiated mechanisms causal to mammalian reproductive behaviors. Endocrinology 2011; 152:1209-17. [PMID: 21325045 PMCID: PMC3060638 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-1007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
While estrogen-facilitated changes in gene expression constitute some of the best-analyzed biochemical phenomena in the regulation of transcription, there have been at least two aspects of this topic that have led to much experimental work about estrogen actions on brain and behavior. The first task has required parsing various behavioral and neurochemical functions according to whether they depend on estrogen receptor-α or estrogen receptor-β. The second task has been the formulation of how nuclear actions of estrogens comport with membrane-initiated actions. With respect to these issues, applications of molecular endocrine approaches to lordosis behavior came first. Currently, the last in the chain of reproductive behaviors, maternal behavior, and an entire range of neural and cognitive functions even more complex in their determinants, must be analyzed using current molecular techniques. This minireview of estrogen actions on the chain of female reproductive behaviors highlights challenging new questions about estrogen actions on cells in the brain, questions that have important practical applications far beyond traditionally studied sex behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald Pfaff
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10021, USA.
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734
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Lee AG, Cool DR, Grunwald WC, Neal DE, Buckmaster CL, Cheng MY, Hyde SA, Lyons DM, Parker KJ. A novel form of oxytocin in New World monkeys. Biol Lett 2011; 7:584-7. [PMID: 21411453 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2011.0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is widely believed to be present and structurally identical in all placental mammals. Here, we report that multiple species of New World monkeys possess a novel form of oxytocin, [P8] oxytocin. This mutation arises from a substitution of a leucine to a proline in amino acid position 8. Further analysis of this mutation in Saimiri sciureus (squirrel monkey) indicates that [P8] oxytocin is transcribed and translated properly. This mutation is specific to oxytocin, as the peptide sequence for arginine vasopressin, a structurally related nonapeptide, is unaltered. These findings dispel the notion that all placental mammals possess a 'universal' oxytocin sequence, and highlight the need for research on the functional significance of this novel nonapeptide in New World monkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex G Lee
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 1201 Welch Road, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA.
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735
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Ahern TH, Hammock EAD, Young LJ. Parental division of labor, coordination, and the effects of family structure on parenting in monogamous prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster). Dev Psychobiol 2011; 53:118-31. [PMID: 20945408 PMCID: PMC3164816 DOI: 10.1002/dev.20498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2010] [Accepted: 08/16/2010] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Family relationships help shape species-typical social and emotional development, but our understanding of how this shaping occurs is still relatively limited. Prairie voles are a socially monogamous and biparental species that is well situated to complement traditional animal models, such as rats and mice, in investigating the effects of family experience. In this series of studies, we aimed to test hypotheses relating to how prairie vole families function under undisturbed, standard laboratory conditions. In the first study, we compared the parental behavior of primiparous biparental (BP) and single-mother (SM) prairie vole family units for 12 postnatal days and then tested for sex differences, behavioral coordination, and family structure effects. Under BP conditions, nest attendance was coordinated and shared equally by both sexes, while pup-directed and partner-directed licking and grooming (LG) were coordinated in a sex and social-context-dependent manner. Contrary to our expectations, SMs showed no evidence of strong parental compensation in response to the lack of the father, indicating a minimal effect of family structure on maternal behavior but a large effect on pup care. In the second study, we examined the effects of these BP and SM rearing conditions on family dynamics in the next generation and found that SM-reared adult parents exhibited lower rates of pup-directed LG in comparison to BP-reared counterparts. Situated in the context of human family dynamics and psychology, these results suggest that the study in prairie voles may help improve our understanding of family systems and how perturbations to these systems can affect adults and offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd H Ahern
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
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736
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O’Connell LA, Matthews BJ, Patel SB, O’Connell JD, Crews D. Molecular characterization and brain distribution of the progesterone receptor in whiptail lizards. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2011; 171:64-74. [PMID: 21185292 PMCID: PMC3041865 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2010.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2010] [Revised: 12/06/2010] [Accepted: 12/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone and its nuclear receptor are critical in modulating reproductive physiology and behavior in female and male vertebrates. Whiptail lizards (genus Cnemidophorus) are an excellent model system in which to study the evolution of sexual behavior, as both the ancestral and descendent species exist. Male-typical sexual behavior is mediated by progesterone in both the ancestral species and the descendant all-female species, although the molecular characterization and distribution of the progesterone receptor protein throughout the reptilian brain is not well understood. To better understand the gene targets and ligand binding properties of the progesterone receptor in whiptails, we cloned the promoter and coding sequence of the progesterone receptor and analyzed the predicted protein structure. We next determined the distribution of the progesterone receptor protein and mRNA throughout the brain of Cnemidophorus inornatus and Cnemidophorus uniparens by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. We found the progesterone receptor to be present in many brain regions known to regulate social behavior and processing of stimulus salience across many vertebrates, including the ventral tegmental area, amygdala, nucleus accumbens and several hypothalamic nuclei. Additionally, we quantified immunoreactive cells in the preoptic area and ventromedial hypothalamus in females of both species and males of the ancestral species. We found differences between both species and across ovarian states. Our results significantly extend our understanding of progesterone modulation in the reptilian brain and support the important role of the nuclear progesterone receptor in modulating sexual behavior in reptiles and across vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A. O’Connell
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712
- Section of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712
| | - Bryan J. Matthews
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712
| | - Sagar B. Patel
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712
| | - Jeremy D. O’Connell
- Center for Systems and Synthetic Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712
| | - David Crews
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712
- Section of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712
- All correspondence and requests for reprints should to addressed to: David Crews, Section of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, Phone: 512-471-1113,
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737
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Collongues N, Cretin B, de Seze J, Blanc F. Amours et neurologie. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2011; 167:105-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2010.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2009] [Revised: 03/05/2010] [Accepted: 03/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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738
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Jarcho MR, Mendoza SP, Mason WA, Yang X, Bales KL. Intranasal vasopressin affects pair bonding and peripheral gene expression in male Callicebus cupreus. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2011; 10:375-83. [PMID: 21255269 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-183x.2010.00677.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Arginine vasopressin (AVP) is a neuropeptide hormone and neurotransmitter that has peripheral functions in water regulation, and central functions in the stress response and social bonding in male rodents. In this study, we investigated the role of AVP in partner preference behavior in a monogamous primate, the coppery titi monkey (Callicebus cupreus). Seven titi males each received three intranasal treatments: saline, low AVP (40 IU) and high AVP (80 IU) in random order, 1 week apart. They experienced a series of stimulus exposures to their female partner, a female stranger and an empty cage. Males were more likely to contact the stimulus and do so faster when either female stimulus was present. When pretreated with saline, males contacted the stranger more frequently than their partner; when pretreated with the high dosage of AVP, males contacted their partner more frequently than the stranger. We used microarray to measure peripheral changes in gene expression associated with intranasal AVP and found reduced expression of several genes coding for proinflammatory cytokines. The data presented here suggest that intranasally administered AVP has both central influences on social behavior and peripheral influences on inflammation in a nonhuman primate.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Jarcho
- Psychology Department, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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739
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Acevedo BP, Aron A, Fisher HE, Brown LL. Neural correlates of long-term intense romantic love. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci 2011; 7:145-59. [PMID: 21208991 DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsq092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study examined the neural correlates of long-term intense romantic love using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Ten women and 7 men married an average of 21.4 years underwent fMRI while viewing facial images of their partner. Control images included a highly familiar acquaintance; a close, long-term friend; and a low-familiar person. Effects specific to the intensely loved, long-term partner were found in: (i) areas of the dopamine-rich reward and basal ganglia system, such as the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and dorsal striatum, consistent with results from early-stage romantic love studies; and (ii) several regions implicated in maternal attachment, such as the globus pallidus (GP), substantia nigra, Raphe nucleus, thalamus, insular cortex, anterior cingulate and posterior cingulate. Correlations of neural activity in regions of interest with widely used questionnaires showed: (i) VTA and caudate responses correlated with romantic love scores and inclusion of other in the self; (ii) GP responses correlated with friendship-based love scores; (iii) hypothalamus and posterior hippocampus responses correlated with sexual frequency; and (iv) caudate, septum/fornix, posterior cingulate and posterior hippocampus responses correlated with obsession. Overall, results suggest that for some individuals the reward-value associated with a long-term partner may be sustained, similar to new love, but also involves brain systems implicated in attachment and pair-bonding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca P Acevedo
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
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740
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Cacioppo JT, Decety J. Social neuroscience: challenges and opportunities in the study of complex behavior. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2011; 1224:162-173. [PMID: 21251011 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05858.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Social species are so characterized because they form organizations that extend beyond the individual. The goal of social neuroscience is to investigate the biological mechanisms that underlie these social structures, processes, and behavior and the influences between social and neural structures and processes. Such an endeavor is challenging because it necessitates the integration of multiple levels. Mapping across systems and levels (from genome to social groups and cultures) requires interdisciplinary expertise, comparative studies, innovative methods, and integrative conceptual analysis. Examples of how social neuroscience is contributing to our understanding of the functions of the brain and nervous system are described, and societal implications of social neuroscience are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T Cacioppo
- Center for Cognitive and Social Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jean Decety
- Center for Cognitive and Social Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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741
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Panzica GC, Bo E, Martini MA, Miceli D, Mura E, Viglietti-Panzica C, Gotti S. Neuropeptides and enzymes are targets for the action of endocrine disrupting chemicals in the vertebrate brain. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2011; 14:449-72. [PMID: 21790321 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2011.578562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) are molecules that interfere with endocrine signaling pathways and produce adverse consequences on animal and human physiology, such as infertility or behavioral alterations. Some EDC act through binding to androgen or/and estrogen receptors primarily operating through a genomic mechanism regulating gene expression. This mechanism of action may induce profound developmental adverse effects, and the major targets of the EDC action are the gene products, i.e., mRNAs inducing the synthesis of various peptidic molecules, which include neuropeptides and enzymes related to neurotransmitters syntheses. Available immunohistochemical data on some of the systems that are affected by EDC in lower and higher vertebrates are detailed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C Panzica
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Anatomy, Pharmacology, and Forensic Medicine, Neuroscience Institute of Turin (NIT), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
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742
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Young KA, Gobrogge KL, Liu Y, Wang Z. The neurobiology of pair bonding: insights from a socially monogamous rodent. Front Neuroendocrinol 2011; 32:53-69. [PMID: 20688099 PMCID: PMC3012750 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2010.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 245] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2010] [Revised: 07/13/2010] [Accepted: 07/28/2010] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The formation of enduring relationships between adult mates (i.e., pair bonds) is an integral aspect of human social behavior and has been implicated in both physical and psychological health. However, due to the inherent complexity of these bonds and the relative rarity with which they are formed in other mammalian species, we know surprisingly little about their underlying neurobiology. Over the past few decades, the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) has emerged as an animal model of pair bonding. Research in this socially monogamous rodent has provided valuable insight into the neurobiological mechanisms that regulate pair bonding behaviors. Here, we review these studies and discuss the neural regulation of three behaviors inherent to pair bonding: the formation of partner preferences, the subsequent development of selective aggression toward unfamiliar conspecifics, and the bi-parental care of young. We focus on the role of vasopressin, oxytocin, and dopamine in the regulation of these behaviors, but also discuss the involvement of other neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, and hormones. These studies may not only contribute to the understanding of pair bonding in our own species, but may also offer insight into the underlying causes of social deficits noted in several mental health disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A Young
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
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743
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Mabry KE, Streatfeild CA, Keane B, Solomon NG. avpr1a length polymorphism is not associated with either social or genetic monogamy in free-living prairie voles. Anim Behav 2011; 81:11-18. [PMID: 21442019 DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2010.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Recent discoveries of single-gene influences on social behaviour have generated a great deal of interest in the proximate mechanisms underlying the expression of complex behaviours. Length polymorphism in a microsatellite in the regulatory region of the gene encoding the vasopressin 1a receptor (avpr1a) has been associated with both inter- and intra-specific variation in socially monogamous behaviour in voles (genus Microtus) under laboratory conditions. Here, we evaluate the relationship between avpr1a length polymorphism and social associations, genetic monogamy, and reproductive success in free-living prairie vole (M. ochrogaster) populations. We found no evidence of a relationship between avpr1a microsatellite length and any of our correlates of either social or genetic monogamy in the field. Our results, especially when taken in conjunction with those of recent experimental studies in semi-natural enclosures, suggest that avpr1a polymorphism is unlikely to have been a major influence in the evolution or maintenance of social monogamy in prairie voles under natural conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen E Mabry
- Department of Zoology and Center for Animal Behaviour, Miami University, Oxford, OH
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744
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Dewan AK, Ramey ML, Tricas TC. Arginine vasotocin neuronal phenotypes, telencephalic fiber varicosities, and social behavior in butterflyfishes (Chaetodontidae): potential similarities to birds and mammals. Horm Behav 2011; 59:56-66. [PMID: 20950619 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2010] [Revised: 10/03/2010] [Accepted: 10/04/2010] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide arginine vasopressin (AVP) influences many social behaviors through its action in the forebrain of mammals. However, the function of the homologous arginine vasotocin (AVT) in the forebrain of fishes, specifically the telencephalon remains unresolved. We tested whether the density of AVT-immunoreactive (-ir) fiber varicosities, somata size or number of AVT-ir neuronal phenotypes within the forebrain were predictive of social behavior in reproductive males of seven species of butterflyfishes (family Chaetodontidae) in four phylogenetic clades. Similar to other fishes, the aggressive (often territorial) species in most cases had larger AVT-ir cells within the gigantocellular preoptic cell group. Linear discriminant function analyses demonstrated that the density of AVT-ir varicosities within homologous telencephalic nuclei to those important for social behavior in mammals and birds were predictive of aggressive behavior, social affiliations, and mating system. Of note, the density of AVT-ir varicosities within the ventral nucleus of the ventral telencephalon, thought to be homologous to the septum of other vertebrates, was the strongest predictor of aggressive behavior, social affiliation, and mating system. These results are consistent with the postulate that AVT within the telencephalon of fishes plays an important role in social behavior and may function in a similar manner to that of AVT/AVP in birds and mammals despite having cell populations solely within the preoptic area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam K Dewan
- Department of Zoology, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA.
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745
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Tops M, van Ijzendoorn MH, Riem MME, Boksem MAS, Bakermans-Kranenburg MJ. Oxytocin receptor gene associated with the efficiency of social auditory processing. Front Psychiatry 2011; 2:60. [PMID: 22069391 PMCID: PMC3208383 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2011.00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2011] [Accepted: 10/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin has been shown to facilitate social aspects of sensory processing, thereby enhancing social communicative behaviors and empathy. Here we report that compared to the AA/AG genotypes, the presumably more efficient GG genotype of an oxytocin receptor gene polymorphism (OXTR rs53576) that has previously been associated with increased sensitivity of social processing is related to less self-reported difficulty in hearing and understanding people when there is background noise. The present result extends associations between oxytocin and social processing to the auditory and vocal domain. We discuss the relevance of our findings for autistic spectrum disorders (ASD), as ASD seems related to specific impairments in the orienting to, and selection of speech sounds from background noise, and some social processing impairments in patients with ASD have been found responsive to oxytocin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattie Tops
- Centre for Child and Family Studies, Leiden University Netherlands
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746
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Sobrian SK, Holson RR. Social behavior of offspring following prenatal cocaine exposure in rodents: a comparison with prenatal alcohol. Front Psychiatry 2011; 2:66. [PMID: 22144967 PMCID: PMC3227113 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2011.00066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2011] [Accepted: 11/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical and experimental reports suggest that prenatal cocaine exposure (PCE) alters the offsprings' social interactions with caregivers and conspecifics. Children exposed to prenatal cocaine show deficits in caregiver attachment and play behavior. In animal models, a developmental pattern of effects that range from deficits in play and social interaction during adolescence, to aggressive reactions during competition in adulthood is seen. This review will focus primarily on the effects of PCE on social behaviors involving conspecifics in animal models. Social relationships are critical to the developing organism; maternally directed interactions are necessary for initial survival. Juvenile rats deprived of play behavior, one of the earliest forms of non-mother directed social behaviors in rodents, show deficits in learning tasks and sexual competence. Social behavior is inherently complex. Because the emergence of appropriate social skills involves the interplay between various conceptual and biological facets of behavior and social information, it may be a particularly sensitive measure of prenatal insult. The social behavior surveyed include social interactions, play behavior/fighting, scent marking, and aggressive behavior in the offspring, as well as aspects of maternal behavior. The goal is to determine if there is a consensus of results in the literature with respect to PCE and social behaviors, and to discuss discrepant findings in terms of exposure models, the paradigms, and dependent variables, as well as housing conditions, and the sex and age of the offspring at testing. As there is increasing evidence that deficits in social behavior may be sequelae of developmental exposure alcohol, we compare changes in social behaviors reported for prenatal alcohol with those reported for prenatal cocaine. Shortcomings in the both literatures are identified and addressed in an effort to improve the translational value of future experimentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya K Sobrian
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Howard University Washington, DC, USA
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747
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Abstract
Prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) are socially monogamous rodents that form pair bonds-a behavior composed of several social interactions including attachment with a familiar mate and aggression toward conspecific strangers. Therefore, this species has provided an excellent opportunity for the study of pair bonding behavior and its underlying neural mechanisms. In this chapter, we discuss the utility of this unique animal model in the study of aggression and review recent findings illustrating the neurochemical mechanisms underlying pair bonding-induced aggression. Implications of this research for our understanding of the neurobiology of human violence are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle L Gobrogge
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Florida StateUniversity, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
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748
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Hayes LD, Burger JR, Soto-Gamboa M, Sobrero R, Ebensperger LA. Towards an integrative model of sociality in caviomorph rodents. J Mammal 2011; 92:65-77. [PMID: 22328791 PMCID: PMC3277430 DOI: 10.1644/10-mamm-s-039.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the late 1990s and early 2000s it was recognized that behavioral ecologists needed to study the sociality of caviomorph rodents (New World hystricognaths) before generalizations about rodent sociality could be made. Researchers identified specific problems facing individuals interested in caviomorph sociality, including a lack of information on the proximate mechanisms of sociality, role of social environment in development, and geographical or intraspecific variation in social systems. Since then researchers have described the social systems of many previously understudied species, including some with broad geographical ranges. Researchers have done a good job of determining the role of social environments in development and identifying the costs and benefits of social living. However, relatively little is known about the proximate mechanisms of social behavior and fitness consequences, limiting progress toward the development of integrative (evolutionary-mechanistic) models for sociality. To develop integrative models behavioral ecologists studying caviomorph rodents must generate information on the fitness consequences of different types of social organization, brain mechanisms, and endocrine substrates of sociality. We review our current understanding and future directions for research in these conceptual areas. A greater understanding of disease ecology, particularly in species carrying Old World parasites, is needed before we can identify potential links between social phenotypes, mechanism, and fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loren D. Hayes
- Department of Biology, 700 University Avenue, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA 72109, USA
| | - Joseph Robert Burger
- Department of Biology, 700 University Avenue, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA 72109, USA
- Department of Biology, MSC03 2020/1, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Mauricio Soto-Gamboa
- Instituto de Ecología y Evolución, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Isla teja S/N, Casilla 567, Chile
| | - Raúl Sobrero
- Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Ecología y Biodiversidad and Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins 340, Santiago, Chile
| | - Luis A Ebensperger
- Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Ecología y Biodiversidad and Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins 340, Santiago, Chile
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749
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Brockman R. Aspects of psychodynamic neuropsychiatry IV: love, ripe fruit, and other addictions. THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PSYCHOANALYSIS AND DYNAMIC PSYCHIATRY 2011; 39:737-747. [PMID: 22168634 DOI: 10.1521/jaap.2011.39.4.737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Passionate love is a powerful emotional/biological force. So too is heart-break a powerful emotional/biological force. This article studies the neurobiological underpinnings of the two. The argument is that passionate love is best understood not as an affective dysregulation but rather as an addiction. And similarly that heart-break is best understood, and treated, not as an affective dysregulation but as an addiction. Clinical examples are given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Brockman
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, USA.
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750
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Soares MC, Bshary R, Fusani L, Goymann W, Hau M, Hirschenhauser K, Oliveira RF. Hormonal mechanisms of cooperative behaviour. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2010; 365:2737-50. [PMID: 20679116 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2010.0151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Research on the diversity, evolution and stability of cooperative behaviour has generated a considerable body of work. As concepts simplify the real world, theoretical solutions are typically also simple. Real behaviour, in contrast, is often much more diverse. Such diversity, which is increasingly acknowledged to help in stabilizing cooperative outcomes, warrants detailed research about the proximate mechanisms underlying decision-making. Our aim here is to focus on the potential role of neuroendocrine mechanisms on the regulation of the expression of cooperative behaviour in vertebrates. We first provide a brief introduction into the neuroendocrine basis of social behaviour. We then evaluate how hormones may influence known cognitive modules that are involved in decision-making processes that may lead to cooperative behaviour. Based on this evaluation, we will discuss specific examples of how hormones may contribute to the variability of cooperative behaviour at three different levels: (i) within an individual; (ii) between individuals and (iii) between species. We hope that these ideas spur increased research on the behavioural endocrinology of cooperation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta C Soares
- Instituto Superior de Psicologia Aplicada, Unidade de Investigação em Eco-Etologia, Integrative Behavioural Biology Group, 1149-041 Lisboa, Portugal.
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