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Oxytocin, Erectile Function and Sexual Behavior: Last Discoveries and Possible Advances. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910376. [PMID: 34638719 PMCID: PMC8509000 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A continuously increasing amount of research shows that oxytocin is involved in numerous central functions. Among the functions in which oxytocin is thought to be involved are those that play a role in social and sexual behaviors, and the involvement of central oxytocin in erectile function and sexual behavior was indeed one of the first to be discovered in laboratory animals in the 1980s. The first part of this review summarizes the results of studies done in laboratory animals that support a facilitatory role of oxytocin in male and female sexual behavior and reveal mechanisms through which this ancient neuropeptide participates in concert with other neurotransmitters and neuropeptides in this complex function, which is fundamental for the species reproduction. The second part summarizes the results of studies done mainly with intranasal oxytocin in men and women with the aim to translate the results found in laboratory animals to humans. Unexpectedly, the results of these studies do not appear to confirm the facilitatory role of oxytocin found in male and female sexual behavior in animals, both in men and women. Possible explanations for the failure of oxytocin to improve sexual behavior in men and women and strategies to attempt to overcome this impasse are considered.
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2
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Stadler B, Whittaker MR, Exintaris B, Middendorff R. Oxytocin in the Male Reproductive Tract; The Therapeutic Potential of Oxytocin-Agonists and-Antagonists. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:565731. [PMID: 33193084 PMCID: PMC7642622 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.565731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, the role of oxytocin and oxytocin-like agents (acting via the oxytocin receptor and belonging to the oxytocin-family) in the male reproductive tract is considered. Previous research (dating back over 60 years) is revised and connected with recently found aspects of the role oxytocin plays in male reproductive health. The local expression of oxytocin and its receptor in the male reproductive tract of different species is summarized. Colocalization and possible crosstalk to other agents and receptors and their resulting effects are discussed. The role of the newly reported oxytocin focused signaling pathways in the male reproductive tract, other than mediating contractility, is critically examined. The structure and effect of the most promising oxytocin-agonists and -antagonists are reviewed for their potential in treating male disorders with origins in the male reproductive tract such as prostate diseases and ejaculatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrix Stadler
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Michael R. Whittaker
- Drug Discovery Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Betty Exintaris
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ralf Middendorff
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
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3
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Winter EM, Ireland A, Butterfield NC, Haffner-Luntzer M, Horcajada MN, Veldhuis-Vlug AG, Oei L, Colaianni G, Bonnet N. Pregnancy and lactation, a challenge for the skeleton. Endocr Connect 2020; 9:R143-R157. [PMID: 32438342 PMCID: PMC7354730 DOI: 10.1530/ec-20-0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In this review we discuss skeletal adaptations to the demanding situation of pregnancy and lactation. Calcium demands are increased during pregnancy and lactation, and this is effectuated by a complex series of hormonal changes. The changes in bone structure at the tissue and whole bone level observed during pregnancy and lactation appear to largely recover over time. The magnitude of the changes observed during lactation may relate to the volume and duration of breastfeeding and return to regular menses. Studies examining long-term consequences of pregnancy and lactation suggest that there are small, site-specific benefits to bone density and that bone geometry may also be affected. Pregnancy- and lactation-induced osteoporosis (PLO) is a rare disease for which the pathophysiological mechanism is as yet incompletely known; here, we discuss and speculate on the possible roles of genetics, oxytocin, sympathetic tone and bone marrow fat. Finally, we discuss fracture healing during pregnancy and lactation and the effects of estrogen on this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Winter
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Center for Bone Quality, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Correspondence should be addressed to E M Winter:
| | - A Ireland
- Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - N C Butterfield
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Commonwealth Building, DuCane Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - M Haffner-Luntzer
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - M-N Horcajada
- Nestlé Research, Department of Musculoskeletal Health, Innovation EPFL Park, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - A G Veldhuis-Vlug
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Center for Bone Quality, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Jan van Goyen Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - L Oei
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G Colaianni
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - N Bonnet
- Nestlé Research, Department of Musculoskeletal Health, Innovation EPFL Park, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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4
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Dhungel S, Rai D, Terada M, Orikasa C, Nishimori K, Sakuma Y, Kondo Y. Oxytocin is indispensable for conspecific-odor preference and controls the initiation of female, but not male, sexual behavior in mice. Neurosci Res 2018; 148:34-41. [PMID: 30502354 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2018.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) has been demonstrated to be involved in various social behaviors in mammals. However, OT gene knockout (OTKO) mice can conceive and deliver successfully, though females cannot rear their pups because of lack of lactation. Here, we investigated the sociosexual behavior of both sexes in two experimental setups: olfactory preference for sexual partner's odor and direct social interaction in an enriched condition. In the preference test, mice were given a choice of two airborne odors derived from intact male and receptive female mice, or from intact or castrated male mice. Wild-type (WT) mice significantly preferred opposite-sex odors, whereas OTKO mice showed vigorous but equivalent exploration to all stimuli. In social interactions in the enriched condition, no difference in sexual behavior was found between WT and OTKO males. In contrast, WT female initiated sexual behavior at the second week test, while OTKO females required 4 weeks to receive successful mounts. Neuronal activation by odor stimulation was compared between WT and OTKO mice. The numbers of cFos-immunoreactive cells increased in the medial amygdala and the preoptic area after exposure to opposite-sex odors in WT mice, whereas the increase was suppressed in OTKO mice. We conclude that OT plays an important role in the regulation of olfactory-related social behavior in both male and female mice. The influence of OT was greater in female mice, especially during social interactions involving the acquisition of sexual experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Dhungel
- Department of Physiology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Physiology, Nepalese Army Institute of Health Sciences, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Dilip Rai
- Department of Physiology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Misao Terada
- Laboratory Animal Research Center, Dokkyo Medical School, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Chitose Orikasa
- Department of Physiology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Yasuo Sakuma
- Department of Physiology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan; University of Tokyo Health Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Kondo
- Department of Physiology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Animal Sciences, Teikyo University of Science, Yamanashi, Japan.
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5
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Rats selectively bred for showing divergent behavioral traits in response to stress or novelty or spontaneous yawning with a divergent frequency show similar changes in sexual behavior: the role of dopamine. Rev Neurosci 2018; 30:427-454. [DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2018-0058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Sexual behavior plays a fundamental role for reproduction in mammals and other animal species. It is characterized by an anticipatory and a consummatory phase, and several copulatory parameters have been identified in each phase, mainly in rats. Sexual behavior varies significantly across rats even when they are of the same strain and reared under identical conditions. This review shows that rats of the same strain selectively bred for showing a divergent behavioral trait when exposed to stress or novelty (i.e. Roman high and low avoidance rats, bred for their different avoidance response to the shuttle box, and high and low novelty exploration responders rats, bred for their different exploratory response to a novel environment) or a spontaneous behavior with divergent frequency (i.e. low and high yawning frequency rats, bred for their divergent yawning frequency) show similar differences in sexual behavior, mainly in copulatory pattern, but also in sexual motivation. As shown by behavioral pharmacology and intracerebral microdialysis experiments carried out mainly in Roman rats, these sexual differences may be due to a more robust dopaminergic tone present in the mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic system of one of the two sub-lines (e.g. high avoidance, high novelty exploration, and low yawning rat sub-lines). Thus, differences in genotype and/or in prenatal/postnatal environment lead not only to individual differences in temperament and environmental/emotional reactivity but also in sexual behavior. Because of the highly conserved mechanisms controlling reproduction in mammals, this may occur not only in rats but also in humans.
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Cussotto S, Sandhu KV, Dinan TG, Cryan JF. The Neuroendocrinology of the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis: A Behavioural Perspective. Front Neuroendocrinol 2018; 51:80-101. [PMID: 29753796 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The human gut harbours trillions of symbiotic bacteria that play a key role in programming different aspects of host physiology in health and disease. These intestinal microbes are also key components of the gut-brain axis, the bidirectional communication pathway between the gut and the central nervous system (CNS). In addition, the CNS is closely interconnected with the endocrine system to regulate many physiological processes. An expanding body of evidence is supporting the notion that gut microbiota modifications and/or manipulations may also play a crucial role in the manifestation of specific behavioural responses regulated by neuroendocrine pathways. In this review, we will focus on how the intestinal microorganisms interact with elements of the host neuroendocrine system to modify behaviours relevant to stress, eating behaviour, sexual behaviour, social behaviour, cognition and addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Cussotto
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Kiran V Sandhu
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Timothy G Dinan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - John F Cryan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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Jurek B, Neumann ID. The Oxytocin Receptor: From Intracellular Signaling to Behavior. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:1805-1908. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00031.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 408] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The many facets of the oxytocin (OXT) system of the brain and periphery elicited nearly 25,000 publications since 1930 (see FIGURE 1 , as listed in PubMed), which revealed central roles for OXT and its receptor (OXTR) in reproduction, and social and emotional behaviors in animal and human studies focusing on mental and physical health and disease. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of OXT expression and release, expression and binding of the OXTR in brain and periphery, OXTR-coupled signaling cascades, and their involvement in behavioral outcomes to assemble a comprehensive picture of the central and peripheral OXT system. Traditionally known for its role in milk let-down and uterine contraction during labor, OXT also has implications in physiological, and also behavioral, aspects of reproduction, such as sexual and maternal behaviors and pair bonding, but also anxiety, trust, sociability, food intake, or even drug abuse. The many facets of OXT are, on a molecular basis, brought about by a single receptor. The OXTR, a 7-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor capable of binding to either Gαior Gαqproteins, activates a set of signaling cascades, such as the MAPK, PKC, PLC, or CaMK pathways, which converge on transcription factors like CREB or MEF-2. The cellular response to OXT includes regulation of neurite outgrowth, cellular viability, and increased survival. OXTergic projections in the brain represent anxiety and stress-regulating circuits connecting the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, amygdala, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, or the medial prefrontal cortex. Which OXT-induced patterns finally alter the behavior of an animal or a human being is still poorly understood, and studying those OXTR-coupled signaling cascades is one initial step toward a better understanding of the molecular background of those behavioral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Jurek
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga D. Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Zaidi M, New MI, Blair HC, Zallone A, Baliram R, Davies TF, Cardozo C, Iqbal J, Sun L, Rosen CJ, Yuen T. Actions of pituitary hormones beyond traditional targets. J Endocrinol 2018; 237:R83-R98. [PMID: 29555849 PMCID: PMC5924585 DOI: 10.1530/joe-17-0680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Studies over the past decade have challenged the long-held belief that pituitary hormones have singular functions in regulating specific target tissues, including master hormone secretion. Our discovery of the action of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) on bone provided the first glimpse into the non-traditional functions of pituitary hormones. Here we discuss evolving experimental and clinical evidence that growth hormone (GH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), prolactin, oxytocin and arginine vasopressin (AVP) regulate bone and other target tissues, such as fat. Notably, genetic and pharmacologic FSH suppression increases bone mass and reduces body fat, laying the framework for targeting the FSH axis for treating obesity and osteoporosis simultaneously with a single agent. Certain 'pituitary' hormones, such as TSH and oxytocin, are also expressed in bone cells, providing local paracrine and autocrine networks for the regulation of bone mass. Overall, the continuing identification of new roles for pituitary hormones in biology provides an entirely new layer of physiologic circuitry, while unmasking new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mone Zaidi
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Correspondence: Mone Zaidi, MD, PhD, The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L Levy Place, Box 1055, New York, NY 10029;
| | - Maria I. New
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Harry C. Blair
- The Pittsburgh VA Medical Center and Departments of Pathology and of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Alberta Zallone
- Department of Histology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Ramkumarie Baliram
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Terry F. Davies
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Christopher Cardozo
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - James Iqbal
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Li Sun
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | | | - Tony Yuen
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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9
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Anjum S, Anuradha A, Krishna A. A possible direct action of oxytocin on spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in pre-pubertal mouse. Andrologia 2018; 50:e12958. [PMID: 29363158 DOI: 10.1111/and.12958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of in vivo and in vitro treatments of oxytocin (OT) on the testis of pre-pubertal mice. The OT treatment produced significant changes in the spermatogenic and steroidogenic activity by increasing expression of OT-receptor in the testis of pre-pubertal mice. Treatment with OT showed increased proliferation of germ cells as indicated by increased number of spermatocytes and round spermatids. Dose-dependent increase in expression of PCNA, Bcl-2 and AR proteins was observed in the testis of OT-treated mice as compared with the control and further supports the role of OT in germ cell proliferation and survival. The pre-pubertal mice treated with increasing dose of OT showed significant increase in testosterone synthesis due to dose-dependent stimulatory effects on 3β-HSD activity and increased expression of STAR, LH-receptor (LH-R) and gonadotrophin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R) proteins in the testis. The in vitro study has confirmed in vivo finding showing direct action of OT on testicular steroidogenesis. Thus, OT stimulates testicular spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis by directly acting on testis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Anjum
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - A Anuradha
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - A Krishna
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
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10
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Blitzer DS, Wells TE, Hawley WR. Administration of an oxytocin receptor antagonist attenuates sexual motivation in male rats. Horm Behav 2017; 94:33-39. [PMID: 28596135 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2017.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
In male rats, oxytocin impacts both sexual arousal and certain types of consummatory sexual behaviors. However, the role of oxytocin in the motivational aspects of sexual behavior has received limited attention. Given the role that oxytocin signaling plays in consummatory sexual behaviors, it was hypothesized that pharmacological attenuation of oxytocin signaling would reduce sexual motivation in male rats. Sexually experienced Long-Evans male rats were administered either an oxytocin receptor antagonist (L368,899 hydrochloride; 1mg/kg) or vehicle control into the intraperitoneal cavity 40min prior to placement into the center chamber of a three-chambered arena designed to assess sexual motivation. During the 20-minute test, a sexually experienced stimulus male rat and a sexually receptive stimulus female rat were separately confined to smaller chambers that were attached to the larger end chambers of the arena. However, physical contact between test and stimulus rats was prevented by perforated dividers. Immediately following the sexual motivation test, test male rats were placed with a sexually receptive female to examine consummatory sexual behaviors. Although both drug and vehicle treated rats exhibited a preference for the female, treatment with an oxytocin receptor antagonist decreased the amount of time spent with the female. There were no differences between drug and vehicle treated rats in either general activity, exploratory behaviors, the amount of time spent near the stimulus male rat, or consummatory sexual behaviors. Extending previous findings, these results indicate that oxytocin receptors are involved in sexual motivation in male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- D S Blitzer
- Franklin and Marshall College, Department of Psychology, United States
| | - T E Wells
- Franklin and Marshall College, Department of Psychology, United States
| | - W R Hawley
- Franklin and Marshall College, Department of Psychology, United States; Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, Department of Psychology, United States.
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11
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Qin X, Ma X, Liang J, Tu D, Luo Z, Huang J, Mo C. Profiles of brain central nervous system gene expression associated with ejaculation behavior in male rats. Behav Brain Res 2017; 324:21-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.01.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Revised: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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12
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Zaidi M, Sun L, Liu P, Davies TF, New M, Zallone A, Yuen T. Pituitary-bone connection in skeletal regulation. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2017; 28:85-94. [PMID: 27508964 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2016-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Pituitary hormones have traditionally been thought to exert specific, but limited function on target tissues. More recently, the discovery of these hormones and their receptors in organs such as the skeleton suggests that pituitary hormones have more ubiquitous functions. Here, we discuss the interaction of growth hormone (GH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), prolactin, oxytocin and arginine vasopressin (AVP) with bone. The direct skeletal action of pituitary hormones therefore provides new insights and therapeutic opportunities for metabolic bone diseases, prominently osteoporosis.
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13
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Johnson ZV, Walum H, Xiao Y, Riefkohl PC, Young LJ. Oxytocin receptors modulate a social salience neural network in male prairie voles. Horm Behav 2017; 87:16-24. [PMID: 27793769 PMCID: PMC5207344 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2016.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2016] [Revised: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Social behavior is regulated by conserved neural networks across vertebrates. Variation in the organization of neuropeptide systems across these networks is thought to contribute to individual and species diversity in network function during social contexts. For example, oxytocin (OT) is an ancient neuropeptide that binds to OT receptors (OTRs) in the brain and modulates social and reproductive behavior across vertebrate species, including humans. Central OTRs exhibit extraordinarily diverse expression patterns that are associated with individual and species differences in social behavior. In voles, OTR density in the nucleus accumbens (NAc)-a region important for social and reward learning-is associated with individual and species variation in social attachment behavior. Here we test whether OTRs in the NAc modulate a social salience network (SSN)-a network of interconnected brain nuclei thought to encode valence and incentive salience of sociosensory cues-during a social context in the socially monogamous male prairie vole. Using a selective OTR antagonist, we test whether activation of OTRs in the NAc during sociosexual interaction and mating modulates expression of the immediate early gene product Fos across nuclei of the SSN. We show that blockade of endogenous OTR signaling in the NAc during sociosexual interaction and mating does not strongly modulate levels of Fos expression in individual nodes of the network, but strongly modulates patterns of correlated Fos expression between the NAc and other SSN nuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary V Johnson
- Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Hasse Walum
- Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Yao Xiao
- Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Paula C Riefkohl
- Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Larry J Young
- Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
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14
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Abstract
Delayed ejaculation (DE) is an uncommon and a challenging disorder to treat. It is often quite concerning to patients and it can affect psychosocial well-being. Here we reviewed how DE is treated pharmacologically .We also highlighted specific settings where drugs could be introduced to medical practice. Electronic databases were searched from 1966 to February 2016, including PubMed MEDLINE, EMBASE, EBCSO Academic Search Complete, Cochrane Systematic Reviews Database, and Google Scholar using key words; delayed ejaculation, retarded ejaculation, inhibited ejaculation, drugs, treatment, or pharmacology. To achieve the maximum sensitivity of the search strategy and to identify all studies, we combined “delayed ejaculation” as Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms or keywords with each of “testosterone” or “cabergoline” or “bupropion” or “amantadine” or “cyproheptadine” or “midodrine” or “imipramine” or “ephedrine” or “pseudoephedrine” or “yohimbine” or “buspirone” or “oxytocin” or “bethanechol” as MeSH terms or keywords. There are a number of drugs to treat patients with DE including: testosterone, cabergoline, bupropion, amantadine, cyproheptadine, midodrine, imipramine, ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, yohimbine, buspirone, oxytocin, and bethanechol. Although there are many pharmacological treatment options, the evidence is still limited to small trials, case series or case reports. Review of literature showed that evidence level 1 (Double blind randomized clinical trial) studies were performed with testosterone, oxytocin, buspirone or bethanechol treatment. It is concluded that successful drug treatment of DE is still in its infancy. The clinicians need to be aware of the pathogenesis of DE and the pharmacological basis underlying the use of different drugs to extend better care for these patients. Various drugs are available to address such problem, however their evidence of efficacy is still limited and their choice needs to be individualized to each specific case.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Taymour Mostafa
- Department of Andrology & Sexology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt
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15
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Yuen T, Sun L, Liu P, Blair HC, New M, Zallone A, Zaidi M. Beyond Reproduction: Pituitary Hormone Actions on Bone. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 143:175-185. [PMID: 27697202 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The long-held belief that pituitary hormones act solely on master targets was first questioned when we documented G protein-coupled receptors for thyroid-stimulating hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, adrenocorticotrophic hormone, oxytocin, and vasopressin on bone cells. These evolutionarily conserved hormones and their receptors are known to have primitive roles, and exist in invertebrate species as far down as coelenterates. It is not surprising therefore that each such hormone has multiple hitherto unrecognized functions in mammalian integrative physiology, and hence, becomes a potential target for therapeutic intervention. Here we discuss the skeletal actions of pituitary hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Yuen
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - L Sun
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - P Liu
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - H C Blair
- Departments of Pathology and of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Pittsburgh VA Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - M New
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - A Zallone
- Department of Histology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - M Zaidi
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.
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Johnson ZV, Walum H, Jamal YA, Xiao Y, Keebaugh AC, Inoue K, Young LJ. Central oxytocin receptors mediate mating-induced partner preferences and enhance correlated activation across forebrain nuclei in male prairie voles. Horm Behav 2016; 79:8-17. [PMID: 26643557 PMCID: PMC4768463 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is a deeply conserved nonapeptide that acts both peripherally and centrally to modulate reproductive physiology and sociosexual behavior across divergent taxa, including humans. In vertebrates, the distribution of the oxytocin receptor (OTR) in the brain is variable within and across species, and OTR signaling is critical for a variety of species-typical social and reproductive behaviors, including affiliative and pair bonding behaviors in multiple socially monogamous lineages of fishes, birds, and mammals. Early work in prairie voles suggested that the endogenous OT system modulates mating-induced partner preference formation in females but not males; however, there is significant evidence that central OTRs may modulate pair bonding behavior in both sexes. In addition, it remains unclear how transient windows of central OTR signaling during sociosexual interaction modulate neural activity to produce enduring shifts in sociobehavioral phenotypes, including the formation of selective social bonds. Here we re-examine the role of the central OT system in partner preference formation in male prairie voles using a selective OTR antagonist delivered intracranially. We then use the same antagonist to examine how central OTRs modulate behavior and immediate early gene (Fos) expression, a metric of neuronal activation, in males during brief sociosexual interaction with a female. Our results suggest that, as in females, OTR signaling is critical for partner preference formation in males and enhances correlated activation across sensory and reward processing brain areas during sociosexual interaction. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that central OTR signaling facilitates social bond formation by coordinating activity across a pair bonding neural network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary V Johnson
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Hasse Walum
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Yaseen A Jamal
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Yao Xiao
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Alaine C Keebaugh
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Kiyoshi Inoue
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Larry J Young
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
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Chu X, Ågmo A. The adrenergic α2-receptor, sexual incentive motivation and copulatory behavior in the male rat. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2016; 144:33-44. [PMID: 26906229 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2016.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Revised: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Adrenergic α2 antagonists are known to enhance sexual incentive motivation and modify copulatory behavior while agonists are consistently inhibitory. However, many of the drugs employed in earlier studies were of modest specificity for the α2 receptor, and the importance of the different subtypes of this receptor remains completely unknown. In the present series of experiments we determined the effects on sexual incentive motivation and copulatory behavior of additional, highly specific compounds, as well as of agonists selective for each of the three subtypes of the α2 receptor. Sexual incentive motivation and copulatory behavior were evaluated in male rats in well established procedures. Among the α2 antagonists, RX 821002 reliably enhanced sexual incentive motivation while fluparoxan only had a modest effect. In large doses both drugs reduced copulatory behavior. The agonist S 18616 reduced both incentive motivation and copulation. None of the subtype selective agonists (BRL 44408, ARC 239, JP 1302) had any consistent effect. A peripheral α2 antagonist, L 659,066 was also ineffective. Even though there are some differences between α2 antagonists with regard to their effects on sexual incentive motivation and copulatory behavior it seems safe to conclude that antagonism of the adrenergic α2 receptor enhances motivation without any concomitant stimulation of copulatory behavior. It appears that antagonism of a single receptor subtype is insufficient for having this effect. Perhaps non-selective α2 antagonists could be used for the treatment of male sexual dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chu
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, Norway
| | - Anders Ågmo
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, Norway.
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Abstract
Oxytocin is a neurohypophyseal hormone that is produced centrally by neurons in the paraventricular nucleus and supraoptic nucleus of the hypothalamus. It is released directly into higher brain centres and into the peripheral circulation where it produces a multitude of effects. Classically, oxytocin is known for inducing uterine contractions at parturition and milk ejection during suckling. Oxytocin also acts in a species and gender specific manner as an important neuromodulator. It can affect behaviours associated with stress and anxiety, as well social behaviours including sexual and relationship behaviours, and maternal care. Additionally, oxytocin has been shown to have a variety of physiological roles in peripheral tissues, many of which appear to be modulated largely by locally produced oxytocin, dispelling the notion that oxytocin is a purely neurohypophyseal hormone. Oxytocin levels are altered in several diseases and the use of oxytocin or its antagonists have been identified as a possible clinical intervention in the treatment of mood disorders and pain conditions, some cancers, benign prostatic disease and osteoporosis. Indeed, oxytocin has already been successful in clinical trials to treat autism and schizophrenia. This review will report briefly on the known functions of oxytocin, it will discuss in depth the data from recent clinical trials and highlight future targets for oxytocinergic modulation.
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Gur S, Sikka SC. The characterization, current medications, and promising therapeutics targets for premature ejaculation. Andrology 2015; 3:424-42. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2014] [Revised: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Gur
- Department of Pharmacology; School of Pharmacy; Ankara University; Ankara Turkey
- Department of Urology; Tulane University Health Sciences Center; New Orleans LA USA
| | - S. C. Sikka
- Department of Urology; Tulane University Health Sciences Center; New Orleans LA USA
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de Jong TR, Neumann ID. Moderate Role of Oxytocin in the Pro-Ejaculatory Effect of the 5-HT1A Receptor Agonist 8-OH-DPAT. J Sex Med 2015; 12:17-28. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Clément P, Bernabé J, Compagnie S, Alexandre L, McCallum S, Giuliano F. Inhibition of ejaculation by the non-peptide oxytocin receptor antagonist GSK557296: a multi-level site of action. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 169:1477-85. [PMID: 23530818 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2012] [Revised: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Oxytocin (OT) plays a major role in the control of male sexual responses. Notably, blockade of OT receptors has been reported to inhibit ejaculation in animals. The study aimed to investigate the action of a highly selective, non-peptide OT antagonist GSK557296 in a model of pharmacologically induced ejaculation in anaesthetized rats. The site of action was assessed by investigating different delivery routes for this compound. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Urethane-anaesthetized Wistar rats were implanted with a cerebral ventricle cannula for i.c.v. injections or with a subdural catheter for intrathecal (i.t.) GSK557296 injections. Occurrence of ejaculation was assessed following i.v. 7-hydroxy-2-(di-N-propylamino)tetralin (7-OH-DPAT), a dopamine D3 receptor agonist. In addition, seminal vesicle pressures (SVP) and bulbospongiosus muscle (BS) EMG were recorded as physiological markers of emission and expulsion phases of ejaculation respectively. KEY RESULTS Highest i.v. GSK557296 dose reduced occurrence of ejaculation and increases in SVP but had no effect on BS-EMG. I.c.v. GSK557296 dose dependently inhibited ejaculation, increases in SVP and BS contractions. At spinal thoracic level, GSK557296 dose dependently inhibited ejaculation and increases in SVP but BS-EMG was impaired only with the highest dose. When delivered at lumbar level, GSK557296 dose dependently inhibited ejaculation, increases in SVP and BS contractions. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS In the 7-OH-DPAT-induced ejaculation model, GSK557296 acts peripherally and centrally to inhibit ejaculation with different modalities. Blockade of brain OT receptors seems to be the most effective mechanism of action. Targeting central OT receptors with highly selective antagonist seems a promising approach for the treatment of premature ejaculation.
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Veening JG, de Jong TR, Waldinger MD, Korte SM, Olivier B. The role of oxytocin in male and female reproductive behavior. Eur J Pharmacol 2014; 753:209-28. [PMID: 25088178 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.07.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2014] [Revised: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is a nonapeptide with an impressive variety of physiological functions. Among them, the 'prosocial' effects have been discussed in several recent reviews, but the direct effects on male and female sexual behavior did receive much less attention so far. As our contribution to honor the lifelong interest of Berend Olivier in the control mechanisms of sexual behavior, we decided to explore the role of OT in the present review. In the successive sections, some physiological mechanisms and the 'pair-bonding' effects of OT will be discussed, followed by sections about desire, female appetitive and copulatory behavior, including lordosis and orgasm. At the male side, the effects on erection and ejaculation are reviewed, followed by a section about 'premature ejaculation' and a possible role of OT in its treatment. In addition to OT, serotonin receives some attention as one of the main mechanisms controlling the effects of OT. In the succeeding sections, the importance of OT for 'the fruits of labor' is discussed, as it plays an important role in both maternal and paternal behavior. Finally, we pay attention to an intriguing brain area, the ventrolateral part of the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMHvl), apparently functioning in both sexual and aggressive behavior, which are at first view completely opposite behavioral systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- J G Veening
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Division of Pharmacology, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Anatomy, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - T R de Jong
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - M D Waldinger
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Division of Pharmacology, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - S M Korte
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Division of Pharmacology, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - B Olivier
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Division of Pharmacology, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Veening J, Coolen L. Neural mechanisms of sexual behavior in the male rat: Emphasis on ejaculation-related circuits. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2014; 121:170-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2013.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2013] [Revised: 12/12/2013] [Accepted: 12/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Sexual behavior and dendritic spine density of posterodorsal medial amygdala neurons in oxytocin knockout female mice. Behav Brain Res 2013; 256:95-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Revised: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 07/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Sexual experience increases oxytocin receptor gene expression and protein in the medial preoptic area of the male rat. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2013; 38:1688-97. [PMID: 23474276 PMCID: PMC3715561 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2013.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2012] [Revised: 01/15/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) promotes social and reproductive behaviors in mammals, and OT deficits may be linked to disordered social behaviors like autism and severe anxiety. Male rat sexual behavior is an excellent model for OT regulation of behavior, as its pattern and neural substrates are well characterized. We previously reported that OT microinjected into the medial preoptic area (MPOA), a major integrative site for male sexual behavior, facilitates copulation in sexually experienced male rats, whereas intra-MPOA injection of an OT antagonist (OTA) inhibits copulation. In the present studies, copulation on the day of sacrifice stimulated OTR mRNA expression in the MPOA, irrespective of previous sexual experience, with the highest levels observed in first-time copulators. In addition, sexually experienced males had higher levels of OTR protein in the MPOA than sexually naïve males and first-time copulators. Finally, intra-MPOA injection of OT facilitated mating in sexually naive males. Others have reported a positive correlation between OT mRNA levels and male sexual behavior. Our studies show that OT in the MPOA facilitates mating in both sexually naive and experienced males, some of the behavioral effects of OT are mediated by the OTR, and sexual experience is associated with increased OTR expression in the MPOA. Taken together, these data suggest a reciprocal interaction between central OT and behavior, in which OT facilitates copulation and copulation stimulates the OT/OTR system in the brain.
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Argiolas A, Melis MR. Neuropeptides and central control of sexual behaviour from the past to the present: a review. Prog Neurobiol 2013; 108:80-107. [PMID: 23851261 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2013.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2013] [Revised: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Of the numerous neuropeptides identified in the central nervous system, only a few are involved in the control of sexual behaviour. Among these, the most studied are oxytocin, adrenocorticotropin, α-melanocyte stimulating hormone and opioid peptides. While opioid peptides inhibit sexual performance, the others facilitate sexual behaviour in most of the species studied so far (rats, mice, monkeys and humans). However, evidence for a sexual role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, corticotropin releasing factor, neuropeptide Y, galanin and galanin-like peptide, cholecystokinin, substance P, vasoactive intestinal peptide, vasopressin, angiotensin II, hypocretins/orexins and VGF-derived peptides are also available. Corticotropin releasing factor, neuropeptide Y, cholecystokinin, vasopressin and angiotensin II inhibit, while substance P, vasoactive intestinal peptide, hypocretins/orexins and some VGF-derived peptide facilitate sexual behaviour. Neuropeptides influence sexual behaviour by acting mainly in the hypothalamic nuclei (i.e., lateral hypothalamus, paraventricular nucleus, ventromedial nucleus, arcuate nucleus), in the medial preoptic area and in the spinal cord. However, it is often unclear whether neuropeptides influence the anticipatory phase (sexual arousal and/or motivation) or the consummatory phase (performance) of sexual behaviour, except in a few cases (e.g., opioid peptides and oxytocin). Unfortunately, scarce information has been added in the last 15 years on the neural mechanisms by which neuropeptides influence sexual behaviour, most studied neuropeptides apart. This may be due to a decreased interest of researchers on neuropeptides and sexual behaviour or on sexual behaviour in general. Such a decrease may be related to the discovery of orally effective, locally acting type V phosphodiesterase inhibitors for the therapy of erectile dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Argiolas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
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Lazzari VM, Becker RO, de Azevedo MS, Morris M, Rigatto K, Almeida S, Lucion AB, Giovenardi M. Oxytocin modulates social interaction but is not essential for sexual behavior in male mice. Behav Brain Res 2013; 244:130-6. [PMID: 23376700 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2012] [Revised: 01/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Recently, several studies have shown different conclusions regarding the effect of oxytocin (OT) on the social behaviors of male mice. Most of these studies used exogenous OT, but currently, investigations of the neural bases of social behavior are increasingly employing gene inactivation. This study aimed to analyze the role of OT in the modulation of social behaviors (i.e., sexual and social interaction behaviors) in male mice with selective deletions of the OT gene (OTKO) and the influence of this deletion in basal vasopressin (AVP) plasma concentrations. Our results showed that in the social interaction test, OTKO mice exhibited lower levels of social behaviors and higher levels of non-social behaviors compared to the wild type (WT) group. Additionally, the OTKO group showed a decrease in the number of agonistic behaviors delivered, and consequently, their dominance score was lower than that of the WT group. In the ethological analysis, the OTKO group had a lower aggressive performance and increased social investigation than the WT group. No significant differences were observed in the sexual behavior between groups. Finally, we found lower AVP plasma concentrations in the OTKO compared with the WT group. In conclusion, our data suggest that OT modulates social investigation behavior and the aggressiveness of male mice. The decrease in AVP concentrations in the OTKO group allows us to infer that AVP is physiologically relevant to these behavioral modulations. However, sexual behaviors do not seem to be affected by the lack of OT or by a decrease in the AVP concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virgínia Meneghini Lazzari
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Giuliano F, Clèment P. Pharmacology for the Treatment of Premature Ejaculation. Pharmacol Rev 2012; 64:621-44. [DOI: 10.1124/pr.111.004952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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Andersson KE, Abdel-Hamid IA. Therapeutic targets for premature ejaculation. Maturitas 2011; 70:26-33. [PMID: 21816550 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2011.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2011] [Revised: 06/17/2011] [Accepted: 06/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common male sexual complaint, and may exert a profound negative impact on the man's life and partnership. Using currently available treatment alternatives (e.g., selective serotonin uptake inhibitor, agents acting locally on the penis), PE can be treated in most, but not all patients. However, since long term success rates have been disappointing, and the only approved treatment so far is the short-acting selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor dapoxetine, there is currently an intensive search for new treatment modalities. Selection of the most promising therapeutic targets from a host of current and potential candidates depends heavily on their roles in the pathophysiology of PE. Possible central nervous targets that will be discussed are serotonin transporters, and CNS receptors for 5-HT(IA) and 5-HT(1B), dopamine, oxytocin, opioids, neurokinin-1, and glutamate. Putative peripheral targets include α(1)-adrenoceptors, phosphodiestrase enzymes, Rho kinases, purinergic (P2X) receptors, and penile sensory nerves. It is clear that exploiting the full therapeutic potential of these targets will require additional basic and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl-Erik Andersson
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, NC 27157, USA.
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Abstract
AbstractThis article describes a neurobiological basis for the “first attachment” of the primate infant to its caretaker. The infant normally internalizes a neurobiological “image” of the behavioral and emotional characteristics of its caregiver that later regulates important features of its brain function. Current models of sensorimotor analysis and its relation to emotion suggest that sensorimotor systems are also habit and memory systems, their functional status and lability regulated in part by biogenic amine systems. The intertwined development of neural and social functions can sometimes go awry. If the attachment process fails or the caregiver is incompetent, the infant may become socially dysfunctional. This helps explain the developmental psychopathology and later vulnerability to adult psychopathology that result from disruptions of social attachment.
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Normandin JJ, Murphy AZ. Somatic genital reflexes in rats with a nod to humans: anatomy, physiology, and the role of the social neuropeptides. Horm Behav 2011; 59:656-65. [PMID: 21338605 PMCID: PMC3105176 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2011.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2011] [Revised: 02/03/2011] [Accepted: 02/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Somatic genital reflexes such as ejaculation and vaginocervical contractions are produced through the striated muscles associated with the genitalia. The coordination of these reflexes is surprisingly complex and involves a number of lumbosacral spinal and supraspinal systems. The rat model has been proven to be an excellent source of information regarding these mechanisms, and many parallels to research in humans can be drawn. An understanding of the spinal systems involving the lumbosacral spinal cord, both efferent and afferent, has been generated through decades of research. Spinal and supraspinal mechanisms of descending excitation, through a spinal ejaculation generator in the lumbar spinal cord and thalamus, and descending inhibition, through the ventrolateral medulla, have been identified and characterized both anatomically and physiologically. In addition, delineation of the neural circuits whereby ascending genitosensory information regarding the regulation of somatic genital reflexes is relayed supraspinally has also been the topic of recent investigation. Lastly, the importance of the "social neuropeptides" oxytocin and vasopressin in the regulation of somatic genital reflexes, and associated sociosexual behaviors, is emerging. This work not only has implications for understanding how nervous systems generate sexual behavior but also provides treatment targets for sexual dysfunction in people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J. Normandin
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-5010
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-5010
| | - Anne Z. Murphy
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-5010
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-5010
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Gil M, Bhatt R, Picotte KB, Hull EM. Oxytocin in the medial preoptic area facilitates male sexual behavior in the rat. Horm Behav 2011; 59:435-43. [PMID: 21195714 PMCID: PMC3081415 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2010] [Revised: 12/22/2010] [Accepted: 12/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is a versatile neuropeptide that is involved in a variety of mammalian behaviors, and its role in reproductive function and behavior has been well established. The majority of pharmacological studies of the effects of OT on male sexual behavior have focused on the paraventricular nucleus (PVN), ventral tegmental area (VTA), hippocampus, and amygdala. Less attention has been given to the medial preoptic area (MPOA), a major integrative site for male sexual behavior. The present study investigated the effects of intra-MPOA administration of OT and (d(CH2)51, Tyr(Me)2, Thr4, Orn8, Tyr-NH29)-vasotocin, an OT antagonist (OTA), on copulation in the male rat. The relationship between OT receptor (OTR) binding levels in the MPOA and sexual efficiency was also explored. Microinjection of OT into the MPOA facilitated copulation in sexually experienced male rats, whereas similar injections of an OTA inhibited certain aspects of copulation but had no significant effect on locomotor activity in an open field. Contrary to expectation, sexually efficient males had lower levels of OTR binding in the rostral MPOA compared to inefficient animals. The present data suggest that OT activity in the MPOA is not necessary for the expression of male sexual behavior but is sufficient to facilitate copulatory behaviors and improve sexual efficiency in sexually experienced male rats. These data also suggest that OTR activity in the MPOA stimulates anogenital investigation, facilitates the initiation of copulation, and plays a role in the sensitization effect of the first ejaculation on subsequent ejaculations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Gil
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA.
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Burnett AL, Goldstein I, Andersson KE, Argiolas A, Christ G, Park K, Xin ZC. Future sexual medicine physiological treatment targets. J Sex Med 2011; 7:3269-304. [PMID: 21029380 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.02025.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual function in men and women incorporates physiologic processes and regulation of the central and peripheral nervous systems, the vascular system, and the endocrine system. There is need for state-of-the-art information as there is an evolving research understanding of the underlying molecular biological factors and mechanisms governing sexual physiologic functions. AIM To develop an evidence-based, state-of-the-art consensus report on the current knowledge of the major cellular and molecular targets of biologic systems responsible for sexual physiologic function. METHODS State-of-the-art knowledge representing the opinions of seven experts from four countries was developed in a consensus process over a 2-year period. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Expert opinion was based on the grading of evidence-based medical literature, widespread internal committee discussion, public presentation, and debate. RESULTS Scientific investigation in this field is needed to increase knowledge and foster development of the future line of treatments for all forms of biological-based sexual dysfunction. This article addresses the current knowledge of the major cellular and molecular targets of biological systems responsible for sexual physiologic function. Future treatment targets include growth factor therapy, gene therapy, stem and cell-based therapies, and regenerative medicine. CONCLUSIONS Scientific discovery is critically important for developing new and increasingly effective treatments in sexual medicine. Broad physiologic directions should be vigorously explored and considered for future management of sexual disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur L Burnett
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Melis MR, Argiolas A. Central control of penile erection: A re-visitation of the role of oxytocin and its interaction with dopamine and glutamic acid in male rats. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2011; 35:939-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2010.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2010] [Revised: 10/08/2010] [Accepted: 10/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Smith AS, Agmo A, Birnie AK, French JA. Manipulation of the oxytocin system alters social behavior and attraction in pair-bonding primates, Callithrix penicillata. Horm Behav 2010; 57:255-62. [PMID: 20025881 PMCID: PMC2824532 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2009.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2009] [Revised: 12/03/2009] [Accepted: 12/08/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The establishment and maintenance of stable, long-term male-female relationships, or pair-bonds, are marked by high levels of mutual attraction, selective preference for the partner, and high rates of sociosexual behavior. Central oxytocin (OT) affects social preference and partner-directed social behavior in rodents, but the role of this neuropeptide has yet to be studied in heterosexual primate relationships. The present study evaluated whether the OT system plays a role in the dynamics of social behavior and partner preference during the first 3 weeks of cohabitation in male and female marmosets, Callithrix penicillata. OT activity was stimulated by intranasal administration of OT, and inhibited by oral administration of a non-peptide OT-receptor antagonist (L-368,899; Merck). Social behavior throughout the pairing varied as a function of OT treatment. Compared to controls, marmosets initiated huddling with their social partner more often after OT treatments but reduced proximity and huddling after OT antagonist treatments. OT antagonist treatment also eliminated food sharing between partners. During the 24-h preference test, all marmosets interacted more with an opposite-sex stranger than with the partner. By the third-week preference test, marmosets interacted with the partner and stranger equally with the exception that intranasal-OT treatments facilitated initial partner-seeking behavior over initial contact with the stranger. Our findings demonstrate that pharmacological manipulations of OT activity alter partner-directed social behavior during pair interactions, suggesting that central OT may facilitate the process of pair-bond formation and social relationships in marmoset monkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam S Smith
- Department of Psychology and Callitrichid Research Facility, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
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Imam A, Iqbal J, Blair HC, Davies TF, Huang CLH, Zallone A, Zaidi M, Sun L. Role of the pituitary-bone axis in skeletal pathophysiology. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2009; 16:423-9. [PMID: 19816170 DOI: 10.1097/med.0b013e3283328aee] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Embedded within textbooks for decades is the hard fact that releasing hormones from the anterior pituitary, namely, follicle-stimulating hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone and adrenocorticotropic hormone, stimulate master hormone secretion from target endocrine organs. We propose a paradigm shift in endocrine physiology, which is that these hormones act by design on bone directly, also now considered an endocrine organ. RECENT FINDINGS Complementary investigations using mouse genetic and cell biological approaches reveal that follicle-stimulating hormone and thyroid-stimulating hormone act on bone cells directly to regulate bone remodeling and bone mass. Thyroid-stimulating hormone inhibits bone remodeling, whereas follicle-stimulating hormone stimulates it. We also find that the posterior pituitary hormone oxytocin is anabolic to the skeleton. SUMMARY An ambitious extrapolation is that a plurality of pituitary hormones acts in concert as part of a 'pituitary-bone' axis to regulate skeletal integrity in health and disease. When dysregulated master hormone levels during hypogonadism and hyperthyroidism cause altered pituitary hormone secretion through hypothalamic feedback, the latter hormones contribute to the skeletal loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliza Imam
- The Mount Sinai Bone Program, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Liu X, Shimono K, Zhu LL, Li J, Peng Y, Imam A, Iqbal J, Moonga S, Colaianni G, Su C, Lu Z, Iwamoto M, Pacifici M, Zallone A, Sun L, Zaidi M. Oxytocin deficiency impairs maternal skeletal remodeling. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2009; 388:161-6. [PMID: 19653998 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2009.07.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2009] [Accepted: 07/28/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
We have reported that the posterior pituitary hormone, oxytocin (OT), known for its effects in inducing parturition, lactation and social bonding, is also a skeletal hormone. Here, we demonstrate that OT plays a key role in enabling maternal skeletal mobilization during pregnancy by enhancing the formation of bone resorbing osteoclasts. Osteoclast formation ex vivo is thus diminished in pregnant mothers with genetic OT-deficiency. OT(-/-) pups at day E20 also show a defect in trabecular bone. microCT measurements reveal normal bone volume, but increased trabecular numbers, suggesting that trabeculae in OT(-/-) pups are hypomineralized. We suggest that OT facilitates intergenerational transfer of calcium ions from a pregnant mother to the pups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Liu
- Mount Sinai School of Medicine, NY, USA
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Jia R, Tai F, An S, Broders H, Sun R. Neonatal manipulation of oxytocin influences the partner preference in mandarin voles (Microtus mandarinus). Neuropeptides 2008; 42:525-33. [PMID: 18675458 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2008.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2008] [Revised: 06/16/2008] [Accepted: 06/17/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Neonatal manipulation of oxytocin (OT) has long-term effects on behavior and physiology. The objective of this research was to determine if neonatal exposure to OT can affect partner preferences and to characterize the mechanisms underlying social behavior such as neural activities of relevant brain regions in socially monogamous mandarin voles (Microtus mandarinus). After receiving a subcutaneous injection of isotonic saline (SAL) or OT within 24h of birth, mandarin vole at 60 days of age was paired with an unfamiliar opposite sex for 24h, followed immediately by an examination of their partner preference and 30 days later by the second examination of their partner preference and Fos expression in some brain regions. The results indicated that (1) while 24h cohabitation was insufficient for both female and male SAL-treated mandarin voles to form partner preference, neonatal exposure to OT significantly facilitate female, but not male mandarin voles to form partner preference within 24h of cohabitation; (2) the maintenance of partner preference in females was suppressed by neonatal OT treatment, while neonatal OT-treated males showed significant partner preference as neonatal SAL-treated males and females; in addition, the tendency of aggression to the strangers was impaired in both females and males, and neonatal OT-treated males showed significantly higher mounting behavior to the partner; (3) in comparison with saline-treated females, OT-treated females showed a significant decrease in Fos expression in all brain regions examined in response to partner preference. Relative to saline treatment, neonatal OT treatment induced to males a significant decrease of Fos expression in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and the mediodorsal thalamic nucleus (MD) as well as a significant increase in the medial preoptic area (MPOA), the dorsal part of the lateral septal nucleus (LSD) and the central amygdaloid nucleus (CeA). These results demonstrate that neonatal OT exposure has different effects on the formation and maintenance of partner preference in mandarin voles and the latter effects possibly via OT-induced changes of the neural activities of relevant brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Jia
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710062, China
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Clément P, Peeters M, Bernabé J, Denys P, Alexandre L, Giuliano F. Brain oxytocin receptors mediate ejaculation elicited by 7-hydroxy-2-(di-N-propylamino) tetralin (7-OH-DPAT) in anaesthetized rats. Br J Pharmacol 2008; 154:1150-9. [PMID: 18469843 DOI: 10.1038/bjp.2008.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The involvement of the neuropeptide oxytocin in the control of male sexual responses is documented although its exact mechanisms of action, and especially the site(s) of action, are not fully delineated. In order to clarify this issue, we tested the effects of a peptide oxytocin antagonist delivered through different routes on sexual responses elicited, in anaesthetized male rats, by i.c.v. 7-hydroxy-2-(di-N-propylamino) tetralin (7-OH-DPAT), a dopamine agonist, preferentially active on D3 receptors. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Seminal vesicle pressure (SVP) and bulbospongiosus muscle (BS) electromyograms were recorded as physiological markers of emission and expulsion phases of ejaculation respectively and intracavernosal pressure (ICP) was monitored as a physiological marker of erection. KEY RESULTS When injected i.v., the oxytocin antagonist did not impair 7-OH-DPAT-induced SVP and ICP responses while BS burst frequency was diminished. When delivered i.c.v., the oxytocin antagonist dose-dependently inhibited occurrence of 7-OH-DPAT-induced sexual responses. When delivered intrathecally (i.t.) at the level of the 6th lumbar (L6) segment, but not the 13th thoracic (T13) segment, the oxytocin antagonist reduced the duration of BS responses and the occurrence of ejaculation without impairing ICP responses. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Brain oxytocin receptors mediate male sexual responses elicited by i.c.v. 7-OH-DPAT in anaesthetized rats whereas L6 spinal oxytocin receptors only impair the occurrence of ejaculation. Peripheral oxytocin receptors are marginally involved in 7-OH-DPAT-induced sexual responses. These findings should be considered for the development of potential pharmacological treatment of premature ejaculation in man.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Clément
- Pelvipharm Laboratories, Parc d'Orsay, Orsay, France
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de Jong TR, Veening JG, Olivier B, Waldinger MD. Oxytocin Involvement in SSRI-Induced Delayed Ejaculation: A Review of Animal Studies. J Sex Med 2007; 4:14-28. [PMID: 17233773 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2006.00394.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) differ in the severity of induced ejaculation delay. Various studies indicate that oxytocin is involved in sexual behavior. AIM To review and evaluate the involvement of oxytocin in SSRI-induced ejaculation delay. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Oxytocine release, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) neurotransmission, and desensitization of 5-HT(1A) receptors. METHODS A review and critical analysis of animal studies investigating the interaction of serotonergic and oxytocinergic neurotransmission in relation to the ejaculation process. RESULTS Although acute treatment with the SSRIs fluoxetine and paroxetine immediately causes increased serotonin levels, delayed ejaculation does not occur. The increased serotonin levels induce oxytocin release via activation of 5-HT(1A) receptors, and this might compensate for the inhibitory actions of serotonin on sexual behavior. Chronic treatment with fluoxetine and paroxetine desensitizes 5-HT(1A) receptors on oxytocin neurons, and that might in part determine the onset of delayed ejaculation. Desensitization of 5-HT(1A) receptors is less strong following chronic treatment with the SSRIs fluvoxamine or citalopram, which may attenuate the degree of delayed ejaculation. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary data suggest that the severity of chronic SSRI treatment-induced delayed ejaculation and the differences between the various SSRIs in inducing ejaculation delay is related to gradual desensitization of 5-HT(1A) receptors on oxytocin neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trynke R de Jong
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Utrecht Institute of Pharmacological Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jan G Veening
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Utrecht Institute of Pharmacological Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands;; Department of Anatomy, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Berend Olivier
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Utrecht Institute of Pharmacological Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands;; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University Medical School, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marcel D Waldinger
- Department of Psychopharmacology, Utrecht Institute of Pharmacological Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands;; Department of Psychiatry and Neurosexology, HagaHospital Leyenburg, The Hague, the Netherlands.
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Argiolas A, Melis MR. Central control of penile erection: Role of the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. Prog Neurobiol 2005; 76:1-21. [PMID: 16043278 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2005.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2004] [Revised: 05/02/2005] [Accepted: 06/14/2005] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus is an integration centre between the central and peripheral autonomic nervous systems. It is involved in numerous functions from feeding, metabolic balance, blood pressure and heart rate, to erectile function and sexual behaviour. In particular, a group of oxytocinergic neurons originating in this nucleus and projecting to extra-hypothalamic brain areas (e.g., hippocampus, medulla oblongata and spinal cord) control penile erection in male rats. Activation of these neurons by dopamine and its agonists, excitatory amino acids (N-methyl-D-aspartic acid) or oxytocin itself, or by electrical stimulation leads to penile erection, while their inhibition by gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) and its agonists or by opioid peptides and opiate-like drugs inhibits this sexual response. The activation of these neurons is secondary to the activation of nitric oxide synthase, which produces nitric oxide. Nitric oxide in turn causes, by a mechanism that is as yet unidentified, the release of oxytocin in extra-hypothalamic brain areas. Other compounds recently identified that facilitate penile erection by activating central oxytocinergic neurons are peptide analogues of hexarelin, a growth hormone releasing peptide, pro-VGF-derived peptides, endogenous peptides that may be released by neuronal nerve endings impinging on oxytocinergic cell bodies, SR 141716A, a cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist, and, less convincingly, adrenocorticotropin-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (ACTH-MSH)-related peptides. Paraventricular oxytocinergic neurons and similar mechanisms are also involved in penile erection occurring in physiological contexts, namely noncontact erections that occur in male rats in the presence of an inaccessible receptive female, and during copulation. These findings show that the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus plays an important role in the control of erectile function and sexual activity. As the male rat is a model of sexual behaviour and penile physiology, which has largely increased in the last years our knowledge of peripheral and central mechanisms controlling erectile function (drugs that induce penile erection in male rats usually do so also in man), the above results may have great significance in terms of a human perspective for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Argiolas
- Bernard B. Brodie Department of Neuroscience, Centre of Excellence for the Neurobiology of Addictions, University of Cagliari, S.P. Sestu-Monserrato Km 0.700, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
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Argiolas A, Melis MR. The role of oxytocin and the paraventricular nucleus in the sexual behaviour of male mammals. Physiol Behav 2004; 83:309-17. [PMID: 15488547 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2004.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus contains the cell bodies of a group of oxytocinergic neurons projecting to extrahypothalamic brain areas and to the spinal cord, which are involved in the control of erectile function and copulation. In male rats, these neurons can be activated by dopamine, excitatory amino acids, nitric oxide (NO), hexarelin analogue peptides and oxytocin itself to induce penile erection and facilitate copulation, while their inhibition by gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and GABA agonists and by opioid peptides and opiate-like drugs inhibits sexual responses. The activation of paraventricular oxytocinergic neurons by dopamine, oxytocin, excitatory amino acids and hexarelin analogue peptides is apparently mediated by the activation of nitric oxide (NO) synthase. NO in turn activates, by a mechanism that is as yet unidentified, the release of oxytocin from oxytocinergic neurons in extrahypothalamic brain areas. Paraventricular oxytocinergic neurons and mechanisms similar to those reported above are also involved in the expression of penile erection in physiological contexts, namely, when penile erection is induced in the male by the presence of an inaccessible receptive female, which is considered a model for psychogenic impotence in man, as well as during copulation. These findings show that paraventricular oxytocinergic neurons projecting to extrahypothalamic brain areas and to the spinal cord and the paraventricular nucleus play an important role in the control of erectile function and male sexual behaviour in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Argiolas
- Bernard B. Brodie Department of Neuroscience and Center of Excellence for the Neurobiology of Addictions, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, S.P. Sestu-Monserrato, Km 0.700, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy.
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Abstract
Ejaculation is a reflex mediated by a spinal control center, referred to as a spinal ejaculation generator. This spinal ejaculation generator coordinates sympathetic, parasympathetic and motor outflow to induce the two phases of ejaculation, i.e., emission and expulsion. In addition, the spinal ejaculation generator integrates this outflow with inputs that are related to the summation of sexual activity prior to ejaculation that are required to trigger ejaculation. Recently, a group of spinothalamic neurons in the lumbar spinal cord (LSt cells) were demonstrated to comprise an integral part of the spinal ejaculation generator. Specifically, lesions of LSt cells completely ablate ejaculatory function. Moreover, LSt cells are activated following ejaculation, but not following other components of sexual behavior. Furthermore, based on their relationship with autonomic nuclei, motoneurons and genital sensory inputs, LSt cells are also in the ideal anatomical position to integrate sensory inputs and autonomic and motor outflow. Additionally, the spinal ejaculation generator is under inhibitory and excitatory influence of supraspinal sites, including the nucleus paragigantocellularis (nPGi), the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) and the medial preoptic area (MPOA). Finally, sensory information related to ejaculation is processed in the spinal cord and brain, possibly contributing to the rewarding properties of ejaculation. One candidate pathway for relay of ejaculation-related cues consists of LSt cells and their projections to the parvocellular subparafascicular thalamic nucleus. Moreover, neural activation specifically related to ejaculation is observed in the brain and may reflect of processing of ejaculation-related sensory cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lique M Coolen
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0521, USA.
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Melis MR, Succu S, Mascia MS, Cortis L, Argiolas A. Extra-cellular dopamine increases in the paraventricular nucleus of male rats during sexual activity. Eur J Neurosci 2003; 17:1266-72. [PMID: 12670314 DOI: 10.1046/j.1460-9568.2003.02558.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Dopamine and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) concentrations were measured in the dialysate obtained with vertical microdialysis probes implanted into the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus of sexually potent male rats. Animals showed noncontact erections when put in the presence of, and copulated with a receptive (ovarietomized oestrogen and progesterone primed) female rat. Dopamine and DOPAC concentrations in the paraventricular dialysate increased 140% and 19%, respectively, above baseline values during exposure to the receptive female and 280% and 31%, respectively, during copulation. No changes in dopamine and DOPAC concentrations were detected in the paraventricular dialysate when sexually potent male rats were exposed to nonreceptive (ovariectomized not oestrogen plus progesterone primed) female rats. These results confirm the involvement of the paraventricular nucleus in control of erectile function and copulatory behaviour and show for the first time that dopamine neurotransmission is increased in this hypothalamic nucleus when erection occurs in physiological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosaria Melis
- Bernard B. Brodie Department of Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, S.P. Monserrato-Sestu, Km 0.700, 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy.
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Walch K, Eder R, Schindler A, Feichtinger W. The effect of single-dose oxytocin application on time to ejaculation and seminal parameters in men. J Assist Reprod Genet 2001; 18:655-9. [PMID: 11808847 PMCID: PMC3455247 DOI: 10.1023/a:1013115301159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the effect of a single dose of oxytocin on ejaculation time and seminal parameters. METHODS The prospective randomized clinical study was performed at a private assisted reproduction technology center and included 103 consecutive healthy men (semen donors or husbands of IVF patients). Oxytocin (16 IU) were administered intranasally to 49 subjects, randomly assigned to the study group just before masturbation to ejaculation. The time needed for ejaculation as well as the semen parameters was recorded according to the WHO standards, and compared to the control group of 54 subjects with no prior oxytocin treatment. RESULTS No significant difference was noted between the two groups concerning ejaculation time and semen parameters. CONCLUSIONS Although the administration of oxytocin stimulates sexual behavior and performance in mammalian species, our data indicate that oxytocin has no detectable effect on ejaculation time and seminal parameters after intranasal application in normal, healthy men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Walch
- Private Assisted Reproduction Technology Center, Lainzer Strasse 6, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ruth Eder
- Private Assisted Reproduction Technology Center, Lainzer Strasse 6, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Schindler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaiser Franz Josef Hospital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wilfried Feichtinger
- Private Assisted Reproduction Technology Center, Lainzer Strasse 6, Vienna, Austria
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