1
|
Wall EM, Woolley SC. Social experiences shape song preference learning independently of developmental exposure to song. Proc Biol Sci 2024; 291:20240358. [PMID: 38835281 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2024.0358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Communication governs the formation and maintenance of social relationships. The interpretation of communication signals depends not only on the signal's content but also on a receiver's individual experience. Experiences throughout life may interact to affect behavioural plasticity, such that a lack of developmental sensory exposure could constrain adult learning, while salient adult social experiences could remedy developmental deficits. We investigated how experiences impact the formation and direction of female auditory preferences in the zebra finch. Zebra finches form long-lasting pair bonds and females learn preferences for their mate's vocalizations. We found that after 2 weeks of cohabitation with a male, females formed pair bonds and learned to prefer their partner's song regardless of whether they were reared with ('normally reared') or without ('song-naive') developmental exposure to song. In contrast, females that heard but did not physically interact with a male did not prefer his song. In addition, previous work has found that song-naive females do not show species-typical preferences for courtship song. We found that cohabitation with a male ameliorated this difference in preference. Thus, courtship and pair bonding, but not acoustic-only interactions, strongly influence preference learning regardless of rearing experience, and may dynamically drive auditory plasticity for recognition and preference.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin M Wall
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Québec H3A 1A1, Canada
- Centre for Research on Brain, Language and Music, McGill University, Montreal, Québec H3G 2A8, Canada
| | - Sarah C Woolley
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Québec H3A 1A1, Canada
- Centre for Research on Brain, Language and Music, McGill University, Montreal, Québec H3G 2A8, Canada
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Québec H3A 1B1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kimball MG, Harding CT, Couvillion KE, Stansberry KR, Kelly TR, Lattin CR. Effect of estradiol and predator cues on behavior and brain responses of captive female house sparrows ( Passer domesticus). Front Physiol 2023; 14:1172865. [PMID: 37427407 PMCID: PMC10326312 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1172865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of predators can cause major changes in animal behavior, but how this interacts with hormonal state and brain activity is poorly understood. We gave female house sparrows (Passer domesticus) in post-molt condition an estradiol (n = 17) or empty implant (n = 16) for 1 week. Four weeks after implant removal, a time when female sparrows show large differences in neuronal activity to conspecific vs. heterospecific song, we exposed birds to either 30 min of conspecific song or predator calls, and video recorded their behavior. Females were then euthanized, and we examined neuronal activity using the expression of the immediate early gene (IEG) ZENK to identify how the acoustic stimuli affected neuronal activation. We predicted that if female sparrows with estradiol implants reduce neuronal activity in response to predator calls as they do to neutral tones and non-predatory heterospecifics, they would show less fear behavior and a decreased ZENK response in brain regions involved in auditory (e.g., caudomedial mesopallium) and threat perception functions (e.g., medial ventral arcopallium) compared to controls. Conversely, we predicted that if females maintain auditory and/or brain sensitivity towards predator calls, then female sparrows exposed to estradiol would not show any differences in ZENK response regardless of playback type. We found that female sparrows were less active during predator playbacks independent of hormone treatment and spent more time feeding during conspecific playback if they had previously been exposed to estradiol. We observed no effect of hormone or sound treatment on ZENK response in any region of interest. Our results suggest that female songbirds maintain vigilance towards predators even when in breeding condition.
Collapse
|
3
|
Buniyaadi A, Prabhat A, Bhardwaj SK, Kumar V. Night melatonin levels affect cognition in diurnal animals: Molecular insights from a corvid exposed to an illuminated night environment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 308:119618. [PMID: 35714793 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the role of nocturnal melatonin secretion in the cognitive performance of diurnal animals. An initial experiment measured the cognitive performance in Indian house crows treated for 11 days with 12 h light at 1.426 W/m2 (∼150 lux) coupled with 12 h of 0.058 W/m2 (∼6-lux) dim light at night (dLAN) or with absolute darkness (0 lux dark night, LD). dLAN treatment significantly decreased midnight melatonin levels and negatively impacted cognitive performance. Subsequently, the role of exogenous melatonin (50 μg; administered intraperitoneally half an hour before the night began) was assessed on the regulation of cognitive performance in two separate experimental cohorts of crows kept under dLAN; LD controls received vehicle. Exogenous melatonin restored its mid-night levels under dLAN at par with those under LD controls, and improved the cognitive performance, as measured in the innovative problem-solving, and spatial and pattern learning-memory efficiency tests in dLAN-treated crows. There were concurrent molecular changes in the cognition-associated brain areas, namely the hippocampus, nidopallium caudolaterale and midbrain. In particular, the expression levels of genes involved in neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity (bdnf, dcx, egr1, creb), and dopamine synthesis and signalling (th, drd1, drd2, darpp32, taar1) were restored to LD control levels in crows treated with illuminated nights and received melatonin. These results demonstrate that the maintenance of nocturnal melatonin levels is crucial for an optimal higher-order brain function in diurnal animals in the face of an environmental threat, such as light pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amaan Buniyaadi
- IndoUS Center in Chronobiology, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110 007, India
| | - Abhilash Prabhat
- IndoUS Center in Chronobiology, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110 007, India
| | | | - Vinod Kumar
- IndoUS Center in Chronobiology, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110 007, India.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fujii TG, Coulter A, Lawley KS, Prather JF, Okanoya K. Song Preference in Female and Juvenile Songbirds: Proximate and Ultimate Questions. Front Physiol 2022; 13:876205. [PMID: 35492616 PMCID: PMC9047784 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.876205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Birdsong has long been a subject of extensive research in the fields of ethology as well as neuroscience. Neural and behavioral mechanisms underlying song acquisition and production in male songbirds are particularly well studied, mainly because birdsong shares some important features with human speech such as critical dependence on vocal learning. However, birdsong, like human speech, primarily functions as communication signals. The mechanisms of song perception and recognition should also be investigated to attain a deeper understanding of the nature of complex vocal signals. Although relatively less attention has been paid to song receivers compared to signalers, recent studies on female songbirds have begun to reveal the neural basis of song preference. Moreover, there are other studies of song preference in juvenile birds which suggest possible functions of preference in social context including the sensory phase of song learning. Understanding the behavioral and neural mechanisms underlying the formation, maintenance, expression, and alteration of such song preference in birds will potentially give insight into the mechanisms of speech communication in humans. To pursue this line of research, however, it is necessary to understand current methodological challenges in defining and measuring song preference. In addition, consideration of ultimate questions can also be important for laboratory researchers in designing experiments and interpreting results. Here we summarize the current understanding of song preference in female and juvenile songbirds in the context of Tinbergen's four questions, incorporating results ranging from ethological field research to the latest neuroscience findings. We also discuss problems and remaining questions in this field and suggest some possible solutions and future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko G. Fujii
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Austin Coulter
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, Program in Neuroscience, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
| | - Koedi S. Lawley
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Jonathan F. Prather
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, Program in Neuroscience, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
| | - Kazuo Okanoya
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Vocal Learning and Behaviors in Birds and Human Bilinguals: Parallels, Divergences and Directions for Research. LANGUAGES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/languages7010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Comparisons between the communication systems of humans and animals are instrumental in contextualizing speech and language into an evolutionary and biological framework and for illuminating mechanisms of human communication. As a complement to previous work that compares developmental vocal learning and use among humans and songbirds, in this article we highlight phenomena associated with vocal learning subsequent to the development of primary vocalizations (i.e., the primary language (L1) in humans and the primary song (S1) in songbirds). By framing avian “second-song” (S2) learning and use within the human second-language (L2) context, we lay the groundwork for a scientifically-rich dialogue between disciplines. We begin by summarizing basic birdsong research, focusing on how songs are learned and on constraints on learning. We then consider commonalities in vocal learning across humans and birds, in particular the timing and neural mechanisms of learning, variability of input, and variability of outcomes. For S2 and L2 learning outcomes, we address the respective roles of age, entrenchment, and social interactions. We proceed to orient current and future birdsong inquiry around foundational features of human bilingualism: L1 effects on the L2, L1 attrition, and L1<–>L2 switching. Throughout, we highlight characteristics that are shared across species as well as the need for caution in interpreting birdsong research. Thus, from multiple instructive perspectives, our interdisciplinary dialogue sheds light on biological and experiential principles of L2 acquisition that are informed by birdsong research, and leverages well-studied characteristics of bilingualism in order to clarify, contextualize, and further explore S2 learning and use in songbirds.
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen Y, Sakata JT. Norepinephrine in the avian auditory cortex enhances developmental song learning. J Neurophysiol 2021; 125:2397-2407. [PMID: 33978494 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00612.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensory learning during critical periods in development has lasting effects on behavior. Neuromodulators like dopamine and norepinephrine (NE) have been implicated in various forms of sensory learning, but little is known about their contribution to sensory learning during critical periods. Songbirds like the zebra finch communicate with each other using vocal signals (e.g., songs) that are learned during a critical period in development, and the first crucial step in song learning is memorizing the sound of an adult conspecific's (tutor's) song. Here, we analyzed the extent to which NE modulates the auditory learning of a tutor's song and the fidelity of song imitation. Specifically, we paired infusions of NE or vehicle into the caudomedial nidopallium (NCM) with brief epochs of song tutoring. We analyzed the effect of NE in juvenile zebra finches that had or had not previously been exposed to song. Regardless of previous exposure to song, juveniles that received NE infusions into NCM during song tutoring produced songs that were more acoustically similar to the tutor song and that incorporated more elements of the tutor song than juveniles with control infusions. These data support the notion that NE can regulate the formation of sensory memories that shape the development of vocal behaviors that are used throughout an organism's life.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Although norepinephrine (NE) has been implicated in various forms of sensory learning, little is known about its contribution to sensory learning during critical periods in development. We reveal that pairing infusions of NE into the avian secondary auditory cortex with brief epochs of song tutoring significantly enhances auditory learning during the critical period for vocal learning. These data highlight the lasting impact of NE on sensory systems, cognition, and behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yining Chen
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jon T Sakata
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Centre for Research on Brain, Language, and Music, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Woolley SC, Woolley SMN. Integrating Form and Function in the Songbird Auditory Forebrain. THE NEUROETHOLOGY OF BIRDSONG 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-34683-6_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
8
|
Tajik S, Beitollahi H, Nejad FG, Safaei M, Zhang K, Van Le Q, Varma RS, Jang HW, Shokouhimehr M. Developments and applications of nanomaterial-based carbon paste electrodes. RSC Adv 2020; 10:21561-21581. [PMID: 35518767 PMCID: PMC9054518 DOI: 10.1039/d0ra03672b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This review summarizes the progress that has been made in the past ten years in the field of electrochemical sensing using nanomaterial-based carbon paste electrodes. Following an introduction into the field, a first large section covers sensors for biological species and pharmaceutical compounds (with subsections on sensors for antioxidants, catecholamines and amino acids). The next section covers sensors for environmental pollutants (with subsections on sensors for pesticides and heavy metal ions). Several tables are presented that give an overview on the wealth of methods (differential pulse voltammetry, square wave voltammetry, amperometry, etc.) and different nanomaterials available. A concluding section summarizes the status, addresses future challenges, and gives an outlook on potential trends. This review summarizes the progress that has been made in the past ten years in the field of electrochemical sensing using nanomaterial-based carbon paste electrodes.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Tajik
- Research Center for Tropical and Infectious Diseases
- Kerman University of Medical Sciences
- Kerman
- Iran
| | - Hadi Beitollahi
- Environment Department
- Institute of Science and High Technology and Environmental Sciences
- Graduate University of Advanced Technology
- Kerman
- Iran
| | - Fariba Garkani Nejad
- Environment Department
- Institute of Science and High Technology and Environmental Sciences
- Graduate University of Advanced Technology
- Kerman
- Iran
| | - Mohadeseh Safaei
- Environment Department
- Institute of Science and High Technology and Environmental Sciences
- Graduate University of Advanced Technology
- Kerman
- Iran
| | - Kaiqiang Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Materials
- Key Laboratory of Mesoscopic Chemistry of MOE
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Nanjing University
- Nanjing
| | - Quyet Van Le
- Institute of Research and Development
- Duy Tan University
- Da Nang 550000
- Vietnam
| | - Rajender S. Varma
- Regional Centre of Advanced Technologies and Materials
- Department of Physical Chemistry
- Faculty of Science
- Palacky University
- 783 71 Olomouc
| | - Ho Won Jang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- Research Institute of Advanced Materials
- Seoul National University
- Seoul 08826
- Republic of Korea
| | - Mohammadreza Shokouhimehr
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- Research Institute of Advanced Materials
- Seoul National University
- Seoul 08826
- Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Rodríguez-Saltos CA, Lyons SM, Sockman KW, Maney DL. Sound-induced monoaminergic turnover in the auditory forebrain depends on endocrine state in a seasonally-breeding songbird. J Neuroendocrinol 2018; 30:e12606. [PMID: 29738608 PMCID: PMC6365208 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sensory responses to courtship signals can be altered by reproductive hormones. In seasonally-breeding female songbirds, for example, sound-induced immediate early gene expression in the auditory pathway is selective for male song over behaviourally irrelevant sounds only when plasma estradiol reaches breeding-like levels. This selectivity has been hypothesized to be mediated by release of monoaminergic neuromodulators in the auditory pathway. We previously showed that in oestrogen-primed female white-throated sparrows, exposure to male song induced dopamine and serotonin release in auditory regions. In order to mediate hormone-dependent selectivity, this release must be (1) selective for song and (2) modulated by endocrine state. Therefore, in the current study we addressed both questions by conducting playbacks of song or a control sound to females in a breeding-like or non-breeding endocrine state. We then used high performance liquid chromatography to measure turnover of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the auditory midbrain and forebrain. We found that sound-induced turnover of dopamine and serotonin did in fact depend on endocrine state; hearing sound increased turnover in the auditory forebrain only in the birds in a breeding-like endocrine state. Contrary to our expectations, these increases occurred in response to either song or artificial tones; in other words, they were not selective for song. The selectivity of sound-induced monoamine release was thus strikingly different from that of immediate early gene responses described in previous studies. We did, however, find that constitutive monoamine release was altered by endocrine state; whether the birds heard sound or not, turnover of serotonin in the auditory forebrain was higher in a breeding-like state than in a non-breeding endocrine state. Our results suggest that dopaminergic and serotonergic responses to song and other sounds, as well as serotonergic tone in auditory areas, could be seasonally modulated. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Susan M. Lyons
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Keith W. Sockman
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | | |
Collapse
|