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Grossmann CP, Sommer C, Fahliogullari IB, Neumann ID, Menon R. Mating-induced release of oxytocin in the mouse lateral septum: Implications for social fear extinction. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 166:107083. [PMID: 38788461 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
In mammals, some physiological conditions are associated with the high brain oxytocin (OXT) system activity. These include lactation in females and mating in males and females, both of which have been linked to reduced stress responsiveness and anxiolysis. Also, in a murine model of social fear conditioning (SFC), enhanced brain OXT signaling in lactating mice, specifically in the lateral septum (LS), was reported to underlie reduced social fear expression. Here, we studied the effects of mating in male mice on anxiety-related behaviour, social (and cued) fear expression and its extinction, and the activity of OXT neurons reflected by cFos expression and OXT release in the LS and amygdala. We further focused on the involvement of brain OXT in the mating-induced facilitation of social fear extinction. We could confirm the anxiolytic effect of mating in male mice irrespective of the occurrence of ejaculation. Further, we found that only successful mating resulting in ejaculation (Ej+) facilitated social fear extinction, whereas mating without ejaculation (Ej-) did not. In contrast, mating did not affect cues fear expression. Using the cellular activity markers cFos and pErk, we further identified the ventral LS (vLS) as a potential region participating in the effect of ejaculation on social fear extinction. In support, microdialysis experiments revealed a rise in OXT release within the LS, but not the amygdala, during mating. Finally, infusion of an OXT receptor antagonist into the LS before mating or into the lateral ventricle (icv) after mating demonstrated a significant role of brain OXT receptor-mediated signaling in the mating-induced facilitation of social fear extinction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy P Grossmann
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christopher Sommer
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | | | - Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Rohit Menon
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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2
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Gul M, Bocu K, Serefoglu EC. Current and emerging treatment options for premature ejaculation. Nat Rev Urol 2022; 19:659-680. [PMID: 36008555 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-022-00639-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Premature ejaculation (PE) is a prevalent male sexual dysfunction. Current standard treatment regimens include behavioural therapies, topical anaesthetics, dapoxetine and other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Most of the pharmacotherapeutic options target neurotransmitters (such as serotonin and oxytocin) that have a role in the ejaculation mechanism. However, these treatments are mildly effective and only provide a temporary delay in the ejaculation latency time, and PE recurs when the treatment is stopped. Thus, a treatment for PE is urgently needed and research is ongoing to find the ideal PE therapy. The efficacy and safety of topical anaesthetics and SSRIs in delaying ejaculation have been confirmed in many well-designed controlled trials. Both preclinical and clinical studies on new-generation SSRIs are ongoing. Moreover, promising results came from clinical trials in which the efficacy of on-demand PE therapies targeting neurotransmitters other than serotonin, such as α1-adrenoceptor antagonists and oxytocin antagonists, was assessed. Surgical intervention and neuromodulation have been proposed as potential treatment options for PE; however, current PE guidelines do not recommend these treatments owing to safety concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Gul
- Department of Urology, Selcuk University School of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
| | - Kadir Bocu
- Department of Urology, Silopi State Hospital, Sirnak, Turkey
| | - Ege Can Serefoglu
- Department of Urology, Biruni University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
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3
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Quintana GR, Mac Cionnaith CE, Pfaus JG. Behavioral, Neural, and Molecular Mechanisms of Conditioned Mate Preference: The Role of Opioids and First Experiences of Sexual Reward. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:8928. [PMID: 36012194 PMCID: PMC9409009 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23168928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although mechanisms of mate preference are thought to be relatively hard-wired, experience with appetitive and consummatory sexual reward has been shown to condition preferences for partner related cues and even objects that predict sexual reward. Here, we reviewed evidence from laboratory species and humans on sexually conditioned place, partner, and ejaculatory preferences in males and females, as well as the neurochemical, molecular, and epigenetic mechanisms putatively responsible. From a comprehensive review of the available data, we concluded that opioid transmission at μ opioid receptors forms the basis of sexual pleasure and reward, which then sensitizes dopamine, oxytocin, and vasopressin systems responsible for attention, arousal, and bonding, leading to cortical activation that creates awareness of attraction and desire. First experiences with sexual reward states follow a pattern of sexual imprinting, during which partner- and/or object-related cues become crystallized by conditioning into idiosyncratic "types" that are found sexually attractive and arousing. These mechanisms tie reward and reproduction together, blending proximate and ultimate causality in the maintenance of variability within a species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo R. Quintana
- Departamento de Psicología y Filosofía, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales y Jurídicas, Universidad de Tarapacá, Arica 1000007, Chile
| | - Conall E. Mac Cionnaith
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC H4B1R6, Canada
| | - James G. Pfaus
- Department of Psychology and Life Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Charles University, 182 00 Prague, Czech Republic
- Division of Sexual Neuroscience, Center for Sexual Health and Intervention, Czech National Institute of Mental Health, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
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4
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Erdogan A, Keskin E, Sambel M, Mertoglu C. Assessing the nitric oxide and asymmetric dimethylarginine levels in lifelong premature ejaculation: A prospective study. Rev Int Androl 2022; 20:225-230. [DOI: 10.1016/j.androl.2021.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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5
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André GI, Firman RC, Simmons LW. The effect of baculum shape and mating behavior on mating-induced prolactin release in female house mice. Behav Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arab083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Male genitalia are subject to rapid divergent evolution, and sexual selection is believed to be responsible for this pattern of evolutionary divergence. Genital stimulation during copulation is an essential feature of sexual reproduction. In mammals, the male intromittent genitalia induces a cascade of physiological and neurological changes in females that promote pregnancy. Previous studies of the house mouse have shown that the shape of the baculum (penis bone) influences male reproductive success and responds to experimentally imposed variation in sexual selection. Here, we test the hypothesis that the baculum is subject to sexual selection due to a stimulatory function during copulation. We selected male and female house mice (Mus musculus domesticus) from families with breeding values at the extremes of baculum shape and performed two series of experimental matings following which we examined the concentration of prolactin in the blood of females either 15 (“early”) or 75 (“late”) min after ejaculation. Our results provide evidence of a mating-induced release of prolactin in the female house mouse early after ejaculation, the level of which is dependent on an interaction between the shape of the baculum and male sexual behavior. Our data thereby provide novel insight into the mechanism(s) of sexual selection acting on the mammalian baculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonçalo I André
- Centre for Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences (M092), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Renée C Firman
- Centre for Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences (M092), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Leigh W Simmons
- Centre for Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences (M092), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
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6
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The Structural and Electrophysiological Properties of Progesterone Receptor-Expressing Neurons Vary along the Anterior-Posterior Axis of the Ventromedial Hypothalamus and Undergo Local Changes across the Reproductive Cycle. eNeuro 2021; 8:ENEURO.0049-21.2021. [PMID: 33879568 PMCID: PMC8184219 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0049-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex hormone levels continuously fluctuate across the reproductive cycle, changing the activity of neuronal circuits to coordinate female behavior and reproductive capacity. The ventrolateral division of the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMHvl) contains neurons expressing receptors for sex hormones and its function is intimately linked to female sexual receptivity. However, recent findings suggest that the VMHvl is functionally heterogeneous. Here, we used whole recordings and intracellular labeling to characterize the electrophysiological and morphologic properties of individual VMHvl neurons in naturally cycling females and report the existence of multiple electrophysiological phenotypes within the VMHvl. We found that the properties of progesterone receptor expressing (PR+) neurons, but not PR– neurons, depended systematically on the neuron’s location along the anterior-posterior (AP) axis of the VMHvl and the phase within the reproductive cycle. Prominent among this, the resting membrane potential of anterior PR+ neurons decreased during the receptive phase, while the excitability of medial PR+ neurons increased during the non-receptive phase. During the receptive phase of the cycle, posterior PR+ neurons simultaneously showed an increase in dendritic complexity and a decrease in spine density. These findings reveal an extensive diversity of local rules driving structural and physiological changes in response to fluctuating levels of sex hormones, supporting the anatomic and functional subdivision of the VMHvl and its possible role in the orchestration of different aspects of female socio-sexual behavior.
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Xia JD, Chen J, Yang BB, Sun HJ, Zhu GQ, Dai YT, Yang J, Wang ZJ. Differences in sympathetic nervous system activity and NMDA receptor levels within the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus in rats with differential ejaculatory behavior. Asian J Androl 2019. [PMID: 29516873 PMCID: PMC6038171 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_4_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Differences in intravaginal ejaculation latency reflect normal biological variation, but the causes are poorly understood. Here, we investigated whether variation in ejaculation latency in an experimental rat model is related to altered sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity and expression of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptors in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN). Male rats were classified as “sluggish,” “normal,” and “rapid” ejaculators on the basis of ejaculation frequency during copulatory behavioral testing. The lumbar splanchnic nerve activity baselines in these groups were not significantly different at 1460 ± 480 mV, 1660 ± 600 mV, and 1680 ± 490 mV, respectively (P = 0.71). However, SNS sensitivity was remarkably different between the groups (P < 0.01), being 28.9% ± 8.1% in “sluggish,” 48.4% ± 7.5% in “normal,” and 88.7% ± 7.4% in “rapid” groups. Compared with “normal” ejaculators, the percentage of neurons expressing NMDA receptors in the PVN of “rapid” ejaculators was significantly higher, whereas it was significantly lower in “sluggish” ejaculators (P = 0.01). In addition, there was a positive correlation between the expression of NMDA receptors in the PVN and SNS sensitivity (r = 0.876, P = 0.02). This study shows that intravaginal ejaculatory latency is associated with SNS activity and is mediated by NMDA receptors in the PVN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Dong Xia
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Bai-Bing Yang
- Department of Andrology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Hai-Jian Sun
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease and Molecular Intervention, Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Guo-Qing Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease and Molecular Intervention, Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Yu-Tian Dai
- Department of Andrology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Zeng-Jun Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210000, China
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8
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Acevedo BP, Poulin MJ, Geher G, Grafton S, Brown LL. The neural and genetic correlates of satisfying sexual activity in heterosexual pair-bonds. Brain Behav 2019; 9:e01289. [PMID: 31090198 PMCID: PMC6576152 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In humans, satisfying sexual activity within a pair-bond plays a significant role in relationship quality and maintenance, beyond reproduction. However, the neural and genetic correlates for this basic species-supporting function, in response to a pair-bonded partner, are unknown. METHODS We examined the neural correlates of oxytocin- (Oxtr rs53576) and vasopressin- (Avpr1a rs3) receptor genotypes with sexual satisfaction and frequency, among a group of individuals in pair-bonds (M relationship length = 4.1 years). Participants were scanned twice (with functional MRI), about 1-year apart, while viewing face images of their spouse and a familiar, neutral acquaintance. RESULTS Sex satisfaction scores showed significant interactions with Oxtr and Avpr variants associated with social behaviors in a broad network of regions involved in reward and motivation (ventral tegmental area, substantia nigra [SN], and caudate), social bonding (ventral pallidum), emotion and memory (amygdala/hippocampus), hormone control (hypothalamus); and somatosensory and self-other processing (SII, frontal, and temporal lobe). Sexual frequency interactions also showed activations in the SN and paraventricular hypothalamus for Avpr, and the prefrontal cortex for Oxtr. CONCLUSIONS Satisfying sexual activity in pair-bonds is associated with activation of subcortical structures that support basic motivational and physiological processes; as well as cortical regions that mediate complex thinking, empathy, and self-other processes highlighting the multifaceted role of sex in pair-bonds. Oxtr and Avpr gene variants may further amplify both basic and complex neural processes for pair-bond conservation and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca P Acevedo
- University of California at Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California
| | | | - Glenn Geher
- State University of New York at New Paltz, New Paltz, New York
| | - Scott Grafton
- University of California at Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California
| | - Lucy L Brown
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
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9
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Bludau A, Royer M, Meister G, Neumann ID, Menon R. Epigenetic Regulation of the Social Brain. Trends Neurosci 2019; 42:471-484. [PMID: 31103351 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Social behavior, a highly adaptive and crucial component of mammalian life, is regulated by particularly sensitive regulatory brain mechanisms. Substantial evidence implicates classical epigenetic mechanisms including histone modifications, DNA methylation, and nucleosome remodeling as well as nonclassical mechanisms mediated by noncoding RNA in the regulation of social behavior. These mechanisms collectively form the 'epigenetic network' that orchestrates genomic integration of salient and transient social experiences. Consequently, its dysregulation has been linked to behavioral deficits and psychopathologies. This review focuses on the role of the epigenetic network in regulating the enduring effects of social experiences during early-life, adolescence, and adulthood. We discuss research in animal models, primarily rodents, and associations between dysregulation of epigenetic mechanisms and human psychopathologies, specifically autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bludau
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Melanie Royer
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany; Biochemistry Center Regensburg (BZR), Laboratory of RNA Biology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gunter Meister
- Biochemistry Center Regensburg (BZR), Laboratory of RNA Biology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Rohit Menon
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
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10
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Huang AC, Wu JM, Chang YH, Dubey NK, Chiu AW, Yeh CY, Tsai TH, Yeh KY. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase activity mediates Lycium barbarum polysaccharides-enhanced sexual performance without stimulating noncontact erection in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:1293-1301. [PMID: 30539267 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5141-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) is known to promote reproductive functions. However, its role in noncontact erection (NCE) of penis initiated by brain regions including medial preoptic area (MPOA) and paraventricular nucleus (PVN) regions responsible for sexual behavior has not been investigated. OBJECTIVES Therefore, this study initially investigated the effects of LBP on male sexual function, and subsequently, the mechanistic insight was investigated through assessing the expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in the MPOA and PVN. METHODS The adult male rats were treated with 100 mg/kg of LBP or vehicle by oral gavage. Before and after 14 days of treatment, copulatory behavior and noncontact erection (NCE) were recorded. After the last behavioral test, the brain was isolated to measure nNOS expression in the MPOA and PVN. RESULTS Data showed that LBP treatment significantly increased both the frequencies of intromission as well as ejaculation, compared to the control group. Whereas, a reduced post-ejaculatory interval was observed compared to same group on day 0. Furthermore, the treatment led to an increased intromission ratio, inter-intromission interval, and the number of MPOA nNOS-immunoreactive cells (nNOS-ir). Additionally, a significantly positive correlation between ejaculation frequency and MPOA nNOS-ir cells was recorded. Of note, LBP treatment had no effects on NCE and PVN nNOS-ir expression. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that LBP enhances sexual behavior through increased nNOS expression in the MPOA in male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy C Huang
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Urology, Taipei City Hospital Ren-Ai Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Min Wu
- Department of Physical Therapy, Hung Kuang University, No. 1018, Sec. 6, Taiwan Boulevard, Shalu District, Taichung, 43302, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Han Chang
- Department of Physical Therapy, Hung Kuang University, No. 1018, Sec. 6, Taiwan Boulevard, Shalu District, Taichung, 43302, Taiwan
| | - Navneet Kumar Dubey
- Ceramics and Biomaterials Research Group, Advanced Institute of Materials Science, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.,Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Allen W Chiu
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Urology, Taipei City Hospital Ren-Ai Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Yu Yeh
- Department of Nursing, Ching Kuo Institute of Management and Health, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Hu Tsai
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Chemical Engineering, National United University, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Kuei-Ying Yeh
- Department of Physical Therapy, Hung Kuang University, No. 1018, Sec. 6, Taiwan Boulevard, Shalu District, Taichung, 43302, Taiwan.
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11
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Dobolyi A, Cservenák M, Young LJ. Thalamic integration of social stimuli regulating parental behavior and the oxytocin system. Front Neuroendocrinol 2018; 51:102-115. [PMID: 29842887 PMCID: PMC6175608 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Critically important components of the maternal neural circuit in the preoptic area robustly activated by suckling were recently identified. In turn, suckling also contributes to hormonal adaptations to motherhood, which includes oxytocin release and consequent milk ejection. Other reproductive or social stimuli can also trigger the release of oxytocin centrally, influencing parental or social behaviors. However, the neuronal pathways that transfer suckling and other somatosensory stimuli to the preoptic area and oxytocin neurons have been poorly characterized. Recently, a relay center of suckling was determined and characterized in the posterior intralaminar complex of the thalamus (PIL). Its neurons containing tuberoinfundibular peptide 39 project to both the preoptic area and oxytocin neurons in the hypothalamus. The present review argues that the PIL is a major relay nucleus conveying somatosensory information supporting maternal behavior and oxytocin release in mothers, and may be involved more generally in social cue evoked oxytocin release, too.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpad Dobolyi
- MTA-ELTE Laboratory of Molecular and Systems Neurobiology, Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Melinda Cservenák
- MTA-ELTE Laboratory of Molecular and Systems Neurobiology, Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; Laboratory of Neuromorphology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Larry J Young
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Silvio O. Conte Center for Oxytocin and Social Cognition, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, USA.
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12
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Hyland L, Rosenbaum S, Edwards A, Palacios D, Graham MD, Pfaus JG, Woodside B, Abizaid A. Central ghrelin receptor stimulation modulates sex motivation in male rats in a site dependent manner. Horm Behav 2018; 97:56-66. [PMID: 29080670 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2017.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ghrelin, a hormone produced primarily by the stomach, has been associated with motivational processes that include reward-seeking behaviors. In male laboratory mice, elevation of ghrelin levels enhances some aspects of sexual motivation and behavior, whereas in other experiments with male mice, rats, and other species, ghrelin treatment or food deprivation decreases sexual motivation and/or behavior. The present tested the hypothesis that stimulation of ghrelin receptors in different brain regions have opposite effects on male sexual motivation and behavior. To do this we examined appetitive and consummatory sex behaviors of male rats with a truncated ghrelin receptor (FHH-GHSRm1/Mcwi), and that of their WT (FHH) littermates. We also examined the effects of ghrelin or the ghrelin antagonist D-Lys-GHRP6 delivered into the VTA or the MPOA on appetitive and consummatory sex behaviors in male Long Evans rats. Results demonstrate that rats with a truncated ghrelin receptor, or rats that are food deprived, show deficits in anticipatory sex. Furthermore, although ghrelin does not further stimulate sex anticipation in rats when infused into the VTA, intra-VTA infusions of D-Lys-GHRP6 into the VTA further decreases in sex anticipation in food deprived rats. In contrast, ghrelin delivery into the mPOA decreased sex anticipation compared to saline or D-Lys-GHRP6 infused rats. Overall, these data suggest that ghrelin receptor signalling is important for full expression of appetitive sex behaviors. Within the VTA, ghrelin may act to enhance sex motivation, while acting on the mPOA to decrease sex motivation and promote foraging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Hyland
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Alexander Edwards
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Palacios
- Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - M Dean Graham
- Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - James G Pfaus
- Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Barbara Woodside
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alfonso Abizaid
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
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13
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Grenier-Genest A, Gérard M, Courtois F. Stroke and sexual functioning: A literature review. NeuroRehabilitation 2017; 41:293-315. [DOI: 10.3233/nre-001481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marina Gérard
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Frédérique Courtois
- Department of Sexology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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14
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Neurobiological Correlates of Pain Avoidance-Like Behavior in Morphine-Dependent and Non-Dependent Rats. Neuroscience 2017; 366:1-14. [PMID: 29024786 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.09.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Repeated use of opioids can lead to the development of analgesic tolerance and dependence. Additionally, chronic opioid exposure can cause a paradoxical emergence of heightened pain sensitivity to noxious stimuli, termed hyperalgesia, which may drive continued or escalated use of opioids to manage worsening pain symptoms. Opioid-induced hyperalgesia has traditionally been measured in rodents via reflex-based assays, including the von Frey method. To better model the cognitive/motivational dimension of pain in a state of opioid dependence and withdrawal, we employed a recently developed non-reflex-based method for measuring pain avoidance-like behavior in animals (mechanical conflict avoidance test). Adult male Wistar rats were administered an escalating dose regimen of morphine (opioid-dependent group) or repeated saline (control group). Morphine-dependent rats exhibited significantly greater avoidance of noxious stimuli during withdrawal. We next investigated individual relationships between pain avoidance-like behavior and alterations in protein phosphorylation in central motivation-related brain areas. We discovered that pain avoidance-like behavior was significantly correlated with alterations in phosphorylation status of protein kinases (ERK, CaMKII), transcription factors (CREB), presynaptic markers of neurotransmitter release (Synapsin), and the rate-limiting enzyme for dopamine synthesis (TH) across specific brain regions. Our findings suggest that alterations in phosphorylation events in specific brain centers may support cognitive/motivational responses to avoid pain.
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Baumeister RF, Catanese KR, Vohs KD. Is There a Gender Difference in Strength of Sex Drive? Theoretical Views, Conceptual Distinctions, and a Review of Relevant Evidence. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY REVIEW 2016. [DOI: 10.1207/s15327957pspr0503_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 516] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
The sex drive refers to the strength of sexual motivation. Across many different studies and measures, men have been shown to have more frequent and more intense sexual desires than women, as reflected in spontaneous thoughts about sex, frequency and variety of sexual fantasies, desired frequency of intercourse, desired number of partners, masturbation, liking for various sexual practices, willingness to forego sex, initiating versus refusing sex, making sacrifices for sex, and other measures. No contrary findings (indicating stronger sexual motivation among women) were found. Hence we conclude that the male sex drive is stronger than the female sex drive. The gender difference in sex drive should not be generalized to other constructs such as sexual or orgasmic capacity, enjoyment of sex, or extrinsically motivated sex.
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Poeppl TB, Langguth B, Rupprecht R, Laird AR, Eickhoff SB. A neural circuit encoding sexual preference in humans. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 68:530-536. [PMID: 27339689 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Sexual preference determines mate choice for reproduction and hence guarantees conservation of species in mammals. Despite this fundamental role in human behavior, current knowledge on its target-specific neurofunctional substrate is based on lesion studies and therefore limited. We used meta-analytic remodeling of neuroimaging data from 364 human subjects with diverse sexual interests during sexual stimulation to quantify neural regions associated with sexual preference manipulations. We found that sexual preference is encoded by four phylogenetically old, subcortical brain structures. More specifically, sexual preference is controlled by the anterior and preoptic area of the hypothalamus, the anterior and mediodorsal thalamus, the septal area, and the perirhinal parahippocampus including the dentate gyrus. In contrast, sexual non-preference is regulated by the substantia innominata. We anticipate the identification of a core neural circuit for sexual preferences to be a starting point for further sophisticated investigations into the neural principles of sexual behavior and particularly of its aberrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timm B Poeppl
- University of Regensburg, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitaetsstrasse 84, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Berthold Langguth
- University of Regensburg, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitaetsstrasse 84, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Rainer Rupprecht
- University of Regensburg, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitaetsstrasse 84, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Angela R Laird
- Florida International University, Department of Physics, 11200 SW 8th Street Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Simon B Eickhoff
- Heinrich Heine University, Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Universitaetsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Research Centre Jülich, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Wilhelm-Johnen-Strasse, 52428, Jülich, Germany
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Abstract
Women experience multiple changes in social and reproductive statuses across the life span which can affect sexual functioning. Various phases of the sexual response cycle may be impacted and can lead to sexual dysfunction. Screening for sexual problems and consideration of contributing factors such as neurobiology, reproductive life events, medical problems, medication use, and depression can help guide appropriate treatment and thereby improve the sexual functioning and quality of life of affected women. Treatment options include psychotropic medications, hormone therapy, and psychotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita H Clayton
- University of Virginia Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, 2955 Ivy Rd, Suite 210, Charlottesville, VA, 22903, USA.
| | - Veronica Harsh
- University of Virginia Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, 2955 Ivy Rd, Suite 210, Charlottesville, VA, 22903, USA.
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Marson L, Giamberardino MA, Costantini R, Czakanski P, Wesselmann U. Animal Models for the Study of Female Sexual Dysfunction. Sex Med Rev 2015; 1:108-122. [PMID: 27784584 DOI: 10.1002/smrj.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Significant progress has been made in elucidating the physiological and pharmacological mechanisms of female sexual function through preclinical animal research. The continued development of animal models is vital for the understanding and treatment of the many diverse disorders that occur in women. AIM To provide an updated review of the experimental models evaluating female sexual function that may be useful for clinical translation. METHODS Review of English written, peer-reviewed literature, primarily from 2000 to 2012, that described studies on female sexual behavior related to motivation, arousal, physiological monitoring of genital function and urogenital pain. MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES Analysis of supporting evidence for the suitability of the animal model to provide measurable indices related to desire, arousal, reward, orgasm, and pelvic pain. RESULTS The development of female animal models has provided important insights in the peripheral and central processes regulating sexual function. Behavioral models of sexual desire, motivation, and reward are well developed. Central arousal and orgasmic responses are less well understood, compared with the physiological changes associated with genital arousal. Models of nociception are useful for replicating symptoms and identifying the neurobiological pathways involved. While in some cases translation to women correlates with the findings in animals, the requirement of circulating hormones for sexual receptivity in rodents and the multifactorial nature of women's sexual function requires better designed studies and careful analysis. The current models have studied sexual dysfunction or pelvic pain in isolation; combining these aspects would help to elucidate interactions of the pathophysiology of pain and sexual dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS Basic research in animals has been vital for understanding the anatomy, neurobiology, and physiological mechanisms underlying sexual function and urogenital pain. These models are important for understanding the etiology of female sexual function and for future development of pharmacological treatments for sexual dysfunctions with or without pain. Marson L, Giamberardino MA, Costantini R, Czakanski P, and Wesselmann U. Animal models for the study of female sexual dysfunction. Sex Med Rev 2013;1:108-122.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Marson
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | | | | | - Peter Czakanski
- University of Alabama at Birmingham-Departments of Anesthesiology and Obstetrics & Gynecology, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Ursula Wesselmann
- University of Alabama at Birmingham-Departments of Anesthesiology and Neurology, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Postural instability, the absence of sexual intercourse in the past month, and loss of libido are predictors of sexual dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2015; 21:61-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2014.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2014] [Revised: 10/08/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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21
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Ejaculatio praecox, erectio praecox, and detumescentia praecox as symptoms of a hypertonic state in lifelong premature ejaculation: A new hypothesis. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2014; 121:189-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2013.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2013] [Revised: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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22
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Graf H, Walter M, Metzger CD, Abler B. Antidepressant-related sexual dysfunction — Perspectives from neuroimaging. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2014; 121:138-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2013.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2013] [Revised: 11/23/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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23
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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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24
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Chen XJ, Pang D, Li LP, Chen YQ, Tan XR. A hypothesis on the relationship between tea drinking and sexual activity. World J Hypertens 2013; 3:32-36. [DOI: 10.5494/wjh.v3.i4.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2013] [Revised: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As a major beverage in the world, the health benefits of drinking tea have been reported in numerous studies. The effects of green tea are mainly attributed to its polyphenol content, although caffeine, accounting for 2%-4%, appears to be related to the adaptation of mental energy by increasing alertness, attention and cognitive function, as well as elevating mood. L-Theanine, a unique amino acid in tea, has neuroprotective and mood effects. In addition, some studies on functional neuroanatomy and cerebral control of sexual function have demonstrated that the thalamus and hypothalamus play a role in emotional changes, memory and sexual behavior patterns. Our recent epidemiology research has unexpectedly found that tea drinking was positively related with sexual orgasm and sexual satisfaction in female hypertensive patients. We therefore hypothesize that long-term regular consumption of tea may play a role in sexual activity.
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Brom M, Both S, Laan E, Everaerd W, Spinhoven P. The role of conditioning, learning and dopamine in sexual behavior: a narrative review of animal and human studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2013; 38:38-59. [PMID: 24211372 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2013.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 10/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Many theories of human sexual behavior assume that sexual stimuli obtain arousing properties through associative learning processes. It is widely accepted that classical conditioning contributes to the etiology of both normal and maladaptive human behaviors. Despite the hypothesized importance of basic learning processes in sexual behavior, research on classical conditioning of the sexual response in humans is scarce. In the present paper, animal studies and studies in humans on the role of pavlovian conditioning on sexual responses are reviewed. Animal research shows robust, direct effects of conditioning processes on partner- and place preference. On the contrast, the empirical research with humans in this area is limited and earlier studies within this field are plagued by methodological confounds. Although recent experimental demonstrations of human sexual conditioning are neither numerous nor robust, sexual arousal showed to be conditionable in both men and women. The present paper serves to highlight the major empirical findings and to renew the insight in how stimuli can acquire sexually arousing value. Hereby also related neurobiological processes in reward learning are discussed. Finally, the connections between animal and human research on the conditionability of sexual responses are discussed, and suggestions for future directions in human research are given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirte Brom
- Institute of Psychology, Clinical, Health and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, The Netherlands; Department of Psychosomatic Gynaecology and Sexology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Stephanie Both
- Department of Psychosomatic Gynaecology and Sexology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen Laan
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Walter Everaerd
- Department Clinical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Philip Spinhoven
- Institute of Psychology, Clinical, Health and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, The Netherlands
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Otunctemur A, Ozbek E, Kirecci SL, Ozcan L, Dursun M, Cekmen M, Ozdogan HK. Relevance of serum nitric oxide levels and the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors treatment on premature ejaculation: decreased nitric oxide is associated with premature ejaculation. Andrologia 2013; 46:951-5. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- A. Otunctemur
- Department of Urology; Okmeydani Training and Research Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
| | - E. Ozbek
- Department of Urology; Okmeydani Training and Research Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
| | - S. L. Kirecci
- Department of Urology; Ilgi Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
| | - L. Ozcan
- Department of Urology; Derince Training and Research Hospital; Kocaeli Turkey
| | - M. Dursun
- Department of Urology; Okmeydani Training and Research Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
| | - M. Cekmen
- Department of Biochemistry; Kocaeli University; Kocaeli Turkey
| | - H. K. Ozdogan
- Department of Biochemistry; Kocaeli University; Kocaeli Turkey
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Tobiansky DJ, Roma PG, Hattori T, Will RG, Nutsch VL, Dominguez JM. The medial preoptic area modulates cocaine-induced activity in female rats. Behav Neurosci 2013; 127:293-302. [PMID: 23565937 DOI: 10.1037/a0031949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Drugs of abuse exert their effects by exploiting natural neurobiological reward mechanisms, especially the mesolimbic dopamine (DA) system. However, the mesolimbic system does not operate in isolation, and input from other reward-relevant structures may play a role in cocaine's rewarding effects. The medial preoptic area (mPOA) of the hypothalamus is involved in the regulation of two essential and naturally rewarding behaviors: sexual and maternal behaviors. It also makes strong neuroanatomical connections with areas of the mesolimbic system, particularly the ventral tegmental area (VTA). As such, the mPOA is a logical candidate for a neuroanatomical locus modulating activity in the mesolimbic system and emergent behavioral expressions of drug reward, yet the role of this structure is largely unexplored. Here, using a female rat model, we show that the mPOA innervates the VTA in a region-specific manner, that lesions of the mPOA augment cocaine-induced Fos expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and cocaine-induced conditioned place preference. We also show that approximately 68% of mPOA-VTA efferents release γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), over 75% are sensitive to DA as evidenced by colocalization with DA receptors, and nearly 60% of these contain both DA receptors and GABA, which suggests a novel key role for the mPOA in the inhibition of the mesolimbic DA circuit. Combined, these results reveal the mPOA as a critical modulating structure in cocaine-induced mesolimbic activity and behavioral manifestation of reward, at least in part, via GABAergic output that is sensitive to DA input.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Tobiansky
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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28
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Maternal treatment with picrotoxin in late pregnancy improved female sexual behavior but did not alter male sexual behavior of offspring. Behav Pharmacol 2013; 24:282-90. [DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0b013e3283633662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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29
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Carluccio A, Contri A, Amendola S, De Angelis E, De Amicis I, Mazzatenta A. Male isolation: A behavioral representation of the pheromonal ‘female effect’ in donkey (Equus asinus). Physiol Behav 2013; 118:1-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2013.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2012] [Revised: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Juan E, Frum C, Bianchi-Demicheli F, Wang YW, Lewis JW, Cacioppo S. Beyond human intentions and emotions. Front Hum Neurosci 2013; 7:99. [PMID: 23543838 PMCID: PMC3608908 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2013.00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2012] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Although significant advances have been made in our understanding of the neural basis of action observation and intention understanding in the last few decades by studies demonstrating the involvement of a specific brain network (action observation network; AON), these have been largely based on experimental studies in which people have been considered as strictly isolated entities. However, we, as social species, spend much more of our time performing actions interacting with others. Research shows that a person's position along the continuum of perceived social isolation/bonding to others is associated with a variety of physical and mental health effects. Thus, there is a crucial need to better understand the neural basis of intention understanding performed in interpersonal and emotional contexts. To address this issue, we performed a meta-analysis using of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies over the past decade that examined brain and cortical network processing associated with understanding the intention of others actions vs. those associated with passionate love for others. Both overlapping and distinct cortical and subcortical regions were identified for intention and love, respectively. These findings provide scientists and clinicians with a set of brain regions that can be targeted for future neuroscientific studies on intention understanding, and help develop neurocognitive models of pair-bonding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Juan
- Psychology Department, University of Geneva Geneva, Switzerland
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31
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Asimakopoulos AD, Miano R, Agrò EF, Vespasiani G, Spera E. Does Current Scientific and Clinical Evidence Support the Use of Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Premature Ejaculation? A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis. J Sex Med 2012; 9:2404-16. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02628.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Social-cooperation differs from individual behavior in hypothalamic and striatal monoamine function: Evidence from a laboratory rat model. Behav Brain Res 2012; 232:252-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2012.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2012] [Revised: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 04/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Abstract
Identifying the role of opioids in the mediation of learned sexual behaviors has been complicated by the use of differing methodologies in the investigations. In this review addressing multiple species, techniques, and pharmaceutical manipulations, several features of opioid mediation become apparent. Opioids are differentially involved in conditioned and unconditioned sexual behaviors. The timing of the delivery of a sexual reinforcer during conditioning trials, especially those using male subjects, acutely influences the role that opioids have in learning. Opioids may be particularly important in the maintenance of conditioned sexual behaviors during periods of non-reinforcement. This appears to be true both for probe trials and procedures designed explicitly to extinguish a sexual conditioned response. These features of opioid mediation of learning do not appear to be restricted to sexual conditioning paradigms. This suggests that, as for other aspects of sexual learning that despite distinctive features conform to underlying behavioral principles, the mediation of conditioned sexual behavior by opioids relies on processes common across reinforcement systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin S Holloway
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience and Behavior Program, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, NY, USA
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Cacioppo S, Bianchi-Demicheli F, Frum C, Pfaus JG, Lewis JW. The common neural bases between sexual desire and love: a multilevel kernel density fMRI analysis. J Sex Med 2012; 9:1048-54. [PMID: 22353205 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02651.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION One of the most difficult dilemmas in relationship science and couple therapy concerns the interaction between sexual desire and love. As two mental states of intense longing for union with others, sexual desire and love are, in fact, often difficult to disentangle from one another. AIM The present review aims to help understand the differences and similarities between these two mental states using a comprehensive statistical meta-analyses of all functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies on sexual desire and love. METHODS Systematic retrospective review of pertinent neuroimaging literature. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Review of published literature on fMRI studies illustrating brain regions associated with love and sexual desire to date. RESULTS Sexual desire and love not only show differences but also recruit a striking common set of brain areas that mediate somatosensory integration, reward expectation, and social cognition. More precisely, a significant posterior-to-anterior insular pattern appears to track sexual desire and love progressively. CONCLUSIONS This specific pattern of activation suggests that love builds upon a neural circuit for emotions and pleasure, adding regions associated with reward expectancy, habit formation, and feature detection. In particular, the shared activation within the insula, with a posterior-to-anterior pattern, from desire to love, suggests that love grows out of and is a more abstract representation of the pleasant sensorimotor experiences that characterize desire. From these results, one may consider desire and love on a spectrum that evolves from integrative representations of affective visceral sensations to an ultimate representation of feelings incorporating mechanisms of reward expectancy and habit learning.
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Cunningham RL, Lumia AR, McGinnis MY. Androgen receptors, sex behavior, and aggression. Neuroendocrinology 2012; 96:131-40. [PMID: 22414851 PMCID: PMC3474193 DOI: 10.1159/000337663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2011] [Accepted: 02/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Androgens are intricately involved in reproductive and aggressive behaviors, but the role of the androgen receptor in mediating these behaviors is less defined. Further, activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis can influence each other at the level of the androgen receptor. Knowledge of the mechanisms for androgens' effects on behaviors through the androgen receptor will guide future studies in elucidating male reproductive and aggressive behavior repertoires.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Cunningham
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Centre at Fort Worth, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA.
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36
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Borja F, Fabre-Nys C. Brain structures involved in the sexual behaviour of Ile de France rams with different sexual preferences and levels of sexual activity. Behav Brain Res 2011; 226:411-9. [PMID: 21985862 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2011.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2011] [Revised: 09/22/2011] [Accepted: 09/26/2011] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Using Fos, as a marker, we analysed the brain structures of rams, with different libidos or sexual preferences that had been activated by contact with males or females. Ile de France rams aged from 1.5 to 7 years were used. Fos immunoreactivity (Fos IR) was analysed in rams with high (HL) or low libido (LL) after 90 min of direct contact with females (HL DirF n=7 or LL DirF n=7) or in rams of high libido having indirect contact through a fence, with females (HL IndF n=6) or males (HL IndM n=5) and finally, in males who preferred other males as partners by indirect contact through a fence with males (MO IndM n=4). Direct or indirect contact with a preferred sexual partner (LL DirF, HL Dir F, HL IndF, MO IndM) induced the appearance of Fos-IR cells in several diencephalic and cortical structures. Conversely, indirect contact with males did not induce Fos-IR in males interested in females (HL IndM). In the medial preoptic area (MPOA), the paraventricular nucleus and the medial bed nucleus of the stria terminalis the cell density of Fos IR cells was higher in HL Dir F than in LL DirF suggesting involvement in sexual motivation whereas only the MPOA seemed involved the consummatory component of sexual behaviour (Fos IR density HL DirF>HL IndF). The enthorinal cortex was the only structure specifically activated by males attracted to other males (Fos IR density MO IndM>HL IndM) whereas Fos IR density did not differ between the HL IndF and HL IndM groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Borja
- UMR 6175 INRA Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, CNRS, Université de Tours, Institut du cheval et de l'équitation, 37380 Nouzilly, France
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Bianchi‐Demicheli F, Cojan Y, Waber L, Recordon N, Vuilleumier P, Ortigue S. Neural Bases of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Women: An Event‐Related fMRI Study. J Sex Med 2011; 8:2546-59. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02376.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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38
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Aversa A, Francomano D, Bruzziches R, Natali M, Spera G, Lenzi A. Is there a role for phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors in the treatment of premature ejaculation? Int J Impot Res 2011; 23:17-23. [DOI: 10.1038/ijir.2010.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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40
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Hofmann HA. The neuroendocrine action potential. Winner of the 2008 Frank Beach Award in Behavioral Neuroendocrinology. Horm Behav 2010; 58:555-62. [PMID: 20600047 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2009] [Revised: 06/15/2010] [Accepted: 06/17/2010] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Animals are remarkably well equipped to respond to changes in their environment across different time scales and levels of biological organization. Here, I introduce a novel perspective that incorporates the three main processes the nervous system uses to integrate and process information: electrophysiological, genomic, and neuroendocrine action potentials. After discussing several examples of neuroendocrine action potentials, I lay out the commonalities of these temporally organized responses and how they might be interrelated with electrophysiological activity and genomic responses. This framework provides a novel outlook on longstanding questions in behavioral neuroendocrinology and suggests exciting new avenues for further research that will integrate across disciplines and levels of biological organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans A Hofmann
- Section of Integrative Biology, Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
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Vyas A, Sapolsky R. Manipulation of host behaviour by Toxoplasma gondii: what is the minimum a proposed proximate mechanism should explain? Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2010; 57:88-94. [PMID: 20608470 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2010.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The behavioural manipulation hypothesis posits that parasites can change the behaviour of hosts to increase the reproductive fitness of the parasite. The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii fits this description well. Sexual reproduction occurs in the cat intestine, from which highly stable oocysts are excreted in faeces. Grazing animals, including rodents, can then ingest these oocysts. The parasite has evolved the capacity to abolish the innate fear that rodents have of the odours of cats, and to convert that fear into an attraction. This presumably increases the likelihood of the rodent being predated, thereby completing the parasite's life cycle. The behavioural syndrome produced by T. gondii does not have any precedent in neuroscience research. This is not a case where the normal functioning of fear system have been altered. This is not even the case of the altering of fear towards predator odours, while leaving other kinds of fear intact. This is an unprecedented example of one component of the fear being eliminated (and replaced by a novel attraction), while appearing to leave other domains unchanged. An understanding of the neurobiological effects of T. gondii is beginning to emerge. One possibility is T. gondii's preferential localisation to, and effects within the amygdala; this is particularly intriguing, given the role of this brain structure in the normal fear response. Obviously, far more must be understood, and the unique behavioural effects of T. gondii put very demanding constraints on any hypothesis we formulate to explain proximate neurobiological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajai Vyas
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551 Singapore.
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Aversa A, Pili M, Francomano D, Bruzziches R, Spera E, La Pera G, Spera G. Effects of vardenafil administration on intravaginal ejaculatory latency time in men with lifelong premature ejaculation. Int J Impot Res 2009; 21:221-7. [PMID: 19474796 DOI: 10.1038/ijir.2009.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2009] [Revised: 04/16/2009] [Accepted: 04/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Premature ejaculation (PE) is thought to be the most common male sexual dysfunction; however, the prevalence of lifelong (LL)-PE is relatively low. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of on-demand vardenafil (10 mg) to modify the intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) in men with LL-PE without erectile dysfunction. Forty-two men (18-35 years) were enrolled in a 16-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. Primary end point was the modification from baseline of IELT assessed by stopwatch technique; secondary end points were post-ejaculatory refractory time (PERT) and variations of scores at the Index of Premature Ejaculation questionnaire. The changes in geometric mean IELT were superior after taking vardenafil (0.6+/-0.3 vs 4.5+/-1.1 min, P<0.01), compared with placebo (0.7+/-0.3 vs 0.9+/-1.0 min, ns). PERT dropped significantly after vardenafil (16.7+/-2.0 vs 4.3+/-0.9 min, P<0.001), compared with placebo (15.3+/-2.2 vs 15.8+/-2.3 min). Patients who took vardenafil (vs placebo) reported significantly (P<0.01) increased ejaculatory control (6+/-2 vs 16+/-2), improved overall sexual satisfaction (7+/-2 vs 15+/-1) and distress (4+/-1 vs 8+/-1) scores, respectively. Multiple regression analysis (r(2)=0.86) for IELT by the number of attempts at sexual intercourse showed significant differences between the slopes of lines for placebo and vardenafil (P<0.0001). The most common adverse events for vardenafil (vs placebo) were headache (10 vs 3%), flushing (12 vs 0%) and dyspepsia (10 vs 0%), which tended to disappear over the time. In conclusion, in our study, vardenafil increased IELT and reduced PERT in men with LL-PE. Besides, improvements in confidence, perception of ejaculatory control and overall sexual satisfaction were reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Aversa
- Chair of Internal Medicine, DFM, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
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Mathers MJ, Klotz T, Roth S, Lümmen G, Sommer F. Safety and efficacy of vardenafil versus sertraline in the treatment of premature ejaculation: a randomised, prospective and crossover study. Andrologia 2009; 41:169-75. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2008.00910.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
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Wylie K, Mimoun S. Sexual response models in women. Maturitas 2009; 63:112-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2009.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2009] [Revised: 03/10/2009] [Accepted: 03/11/2009] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Spritzer MD, Weinberg A, Viau V, Galea LAM. Prior sexual experience increases hippocampal cell proliferation and decreases risk assessment behavior in response to acute predator odor stress in the male rat. Behav Brain Res 2009; 200:106-12. [PMID: 19166878 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2009.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2008] [Revised: 12/27/2008] [Accepted: 01/03/2009] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Acute exposure to the predator odor trimethylthiazoline (TMT) induces defensive behavior in the male rat, and this response is associated with a decrease in cell proliferation within the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Sexual experience appears to be protective, as it exerts anxiolytic-like effects and sustains gonadal function in the face of stress. To examine the influence of sexual experience on subsequent stress-induced defensive behavior and cell proliferation in the hippocampus we exposed adult male rats to TMT odor with or without prior exposure to sexually receptive female rats. A subset of rats was injected with the DNA-synthesis marker bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU; 200 mg/kg) during TMT exposure and perfused 24 h later to provide an index of cell proliferation within the dentate gyrus. In response to TMT, sexual experience reduced the duration of stretched attend postures, but had no significant effect on defensive burying. Furthermore, TMT induced a significant increase in cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus, but only in males with sexual experience. The results demonstrate an influence of socio-sexual experience on the magnitude of the behavioral and neural responses to predator odor stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark D Spritzer
- Department of Psychology, The University of British Columbia, 2136 West Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T1Z4, Canada
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Kleemann G, Jia L, Emmons SW. Regulation of Caenorhabditis elegans male mate searching behavior by the nuclear receptor DAF-12. Genetics 2008; 180:2111-22. [PMID: 18854588 PMCID: PMC2600945 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.108.093773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2008] [Accepted: 10/11/2008] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Coordination of animal behavior with reproductive status is often achieved through elaboration of hormones by the gonad. In the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, adult males explore their environment to locate mates. Mate searching is regulated by presence of mates, nutritional status, and a signal from the gonad. Here we show that the gonadal signal acts via the nuclear receptor DAF-12, a protein known to regulate several C. elegans life-history traits. DAF-12 has both activational and organizational functions to stimulate exploratory behavior and acts downstream of the gonadal signal, outside of the gonad. DAF-12 acts upstream of sensory input from mating partners and physiological signals indicating nutritional status. Mate searching was rescued in germ-line ablated animals, but not if both germ line and somatic gonad were ablated, by a precursor of the DAF-12 ligand, dafachronic acid (DA). The results are interpreted to suggest that the germ line produces a DA precursor that is converted to DA outside of the germ line, possibly in the somatic gonad. As it does in other pathways in which it functions, in regulation of male mate searching behavior DAF-12 acts at a choice point between alternatives favoring reproduction (mate searching) vs. survival (remaining on food).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunnar Kleemann
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
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Carlezon WA, Thomas MJ. Biological substrates of reward and aversion: a nucleus accumbens activity hypothesis. Neuropharmacology 2008; 56 Suppl 1:122-32. [PMID: 18675281 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2008.06.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 389] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2008] [Revised: 06/25/2008] [Accepted: 06/29/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a critical element of the mesocorticolimbic system, a brain circuit implicated in reward and motivation. This basal forebrain structure receives dopamine (DA) input from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and glutamate (GLU) input from regions including the prefrontal cortex (PFC), amygdala (AMG), and hippocampus (HIP). As such, it integrates inputs from limbic and cortical regions, linking motivation with action. The NAc has a well-established role in mediating the rewarding effects of drugs of abuse and natural rewards such as food and sexual behavior. However, accumulating pharmacological, molecular, and electrophysiological evidence has raised the possibility that it also plays an important (and sometimes underappreciated) role in mediating aversive states. Here we review evidence that rewarding and aversive states are encoded in the activity of NAc medium spiny GABAergic neurons, which account for the vast majority of the neurons in this region. While admittedly simple, this working hypothesis is testable using combinations of available and emerging technologies, including electrophysiology, genetic engineering, and functional brain imaging. A deeper understanding of the basic neurobiology of mood states will facilitate the development of well-tolerated medications that treat and prevent addiction and other conditions (e.g., mood disorders) associated with dysregulation of brain motivation systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- William A Carlezon
- Behavioral Genetics Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, MRC 217, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA.
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Translational research into sexual disorders: Pharmacology and genomics. Eur J Pharmacol 2008; 585:426-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2008.02.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2008] [Revised: 01/21/2008] [Accepted: 02/07/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Blaustein JD. Neuroendocrine regulation of feminine sexual behavior: lessons from rodent models and thoughts about humans. Annu Rev Psychol 2008; 59:93-118. [PMID: 17678443 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.psych.59.103006.093556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Much has been learned concerning the neuroendocrine processes and cellular mechanisms by which steroid hormones influence reproductive behaviors in rodents and other animals. In this review, a short discussion of hormones and feminine sexual behavior in some rodent species is followed by an outline of the main principles that have been learned from these studies. Examples are given of the importance of considering the timing of hormone treatments, dosage of hormone, use of a specific hormone, particular class of hormones, or form of hormone, interactions between hormones, route of administration, peripheral factors that influence hormonal response, and the possible mechanisms of action by which hormones and other factors influence sexual behaviors. Although cellular studies in humans are presently impossible to perform, mechanistic studies in rodents may provide clues about the neuroendocrine mechanisms by which hormones act and interact in the brain to influence behavior in all species, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D Blaustein
- Center for Neuroendocrine Studies, Neuroscience and Behavior Program and Psychology Department, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003-9271, USA.
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Jung JH, Kam SC, Choi SM, Jae SU, Lee SH, Hyun JS. Sexual dysfunction in male stroke patients: correlation between brain lesions and sexual function. Urology 2008; 71:99-103. [PMID: 18242374 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2007.08.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2007] [Revised: 06/26/2007] [Accepted: 08/16/2007] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify the sexual function of, and effect of the location of brain lesions on sexual function in, stroke patients. METHODS We conducted a survey on 109 stroke patients (64.93 +/- 8.81 years) and 109 age-matched controls (64.69 +/- 8.85 years). We used a questionnaire that included the five-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and questions about changes in sexual desire, ejaculatory function, and sexual satisfaction after a stroke. We analyzed the correlation between the results of the questionnaire and the locations of brain lesions. RESULTS Erectile function was significantly decreased in the stroke patient group (IIEF-5, 5.89 +/- 7.08) compared with the control group (IIEF-5, 10.67 +/- 7.10). In most patients, the frequency of intercourse and sexual desire decreased after stroke, and an ejaculation disorder accompanied intercourse, but fear regarding intercourse was not severe. A lack of sexual desire was the largest cause (59.4%) of an absence of sexual intercourse. In cases with lesions in the right cerebellum and the left basal ganglia, a significant ejaculation disorder and decrease of sexual desire were more likely to occur, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The sexual desire, erectile function, and ejaculatory function were impaired after stroke. A lack of sexual desire was the major cause of an absence of sexual intercourse. The specific locations of the stroke lesions, such as the left basal ganglia and right cerebellum, might be associated with sexual desire and ejaculation disorder, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jea-Hun Jung
- Department of Urology, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
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