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Wang W, Ge J, Zhang Y, Zhang J. The male's scent triggered a neural response in females despite ambiguous behavioral response in Asian house rats. Integr Zool 2024; 19:694-709. [PMID: 37804522 DOI: 10.1111/1749-4877.12768] [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] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Pheromones and olfactory communication play vital roles in sex recognition and mate choice in rodents. Asian house rats (Rattus tanezumi) (RT) often startle easily, making behavioral measurements difficult to carry out accurately in the laboratory. Here, the behavioral and olfactory preferences of the female RT between males and females were not observed using a conventional two-choice device; we then explored the neuro-immunohistochemical evidence in the brains of RT females. We found that male urine elicited significantly higher c-fos expression in the accessory olfactory system and sex-related brain regions in females than female urine did. On the other hand, the differences of volatile compounds and major urinary proteins (MUPs) in both voided urine and preputial glands (PGs) of the RT were detected using gas chromatography-mass spectrometer, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing electrophoresis, and liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. We found that PG-derived 1-(4,5-dihydro-2-thiazolyl)-ethanone and total MUPs were more abundant in males versus females, suggesting these sexually divergent components might activate the female's accessory olfactory system. In conclusion, the neuro-immunohistochemical evidence indicated that potential sex pheromones might exist in RT; however, the strength of the chemical signal might be too weak to cause behavioral responses in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weichao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jingru Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yaohua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianxu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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2
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Ochi S, Manabe S, Kikkawa T, Ebrahimiazar S, Kimura R, Yoshizaki K, Osumi N. A Transcriptomic Dataset of Embryonic Murine Telencephalon. Sci Data 2024; 11:586. [PMID: 38839806 PMCID: PMC11153524 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-024-03421-x] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Sex bias is known in the prevalence/pathology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Sex-dependent differences of the certain brain areas are known to emerge perinatally through the exposure to sex hormones, while gene expression patterns in the rodent embryonic brain does not seem to be completely the same between male and female. To investigate potential sex differences in gene expression and cortical organization during the embryonic period in mice, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of gene expression for the telencephalon at embryonic day (E) 11.5 (a peak of neural stem cell expansion) and E14.5 (a peak of neurogenesis) using bulk RNA-seq data. As a result, our data showed the existence of notable sex differences in gene expression patterns not obviously at E11.5, but clearly at E14.5 when neurogenesis has become its peak. These data can be useful for exploring potential contribution of genes exhibiting sex differences to the divergence in brain development. Additionally, our data underscore the significance of studying the embryonic period to gain a deeper understanding of sex differences in brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohei Ochi
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Shyu Manabe
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Takako Kikkawa
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Sara Ebrahimiazar
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Kimura
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
- Institute of Resource Development and Analysis, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-0811, Japan
| | - Kaichi Yoshizaki
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
- Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Future Medical Sciences, Division of Integrated Analysis of Bioresource and Health Care, Kobe, 650-0047, Japan
- Kobe University Hospital, Bioresource Center, Kobe, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Noriko Osumi
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan.
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3
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Ågmo A. Neuroendocrinology of sexual behavior. Int J Impot Res 2024; 36:305-311. [PMID: 36481796 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-022-00654-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
One of the consequences of sexual behavior is reproduction. Thus, this behavior is essential for the survival of the species. However, the individual engaged in sexual behavior is rarely aware of its reproductive consequences. In fact, the human is probably the only species in which sexual acts may be performed with the explicit purpose of reproduction. Most human sexual activities as well as sex in other animals is performed with the aim of obtaining a state of positive affect. This makes sexual behavior important for wellbeing as well as for reproduction. It is not surprising, then, that sexual health has become an increasingly important issue, and that knowledge of the basic mechanisms controlling that behavior are urgently needed. The endocrine control of sexual behavior has been extensively studied, and although it is established that gonadal hormones are necessary, some controversy still exists concerning which hormone does what in which species. The brain areas necessary for sexual behavior have been determined in almost all vertebrates except the human. The medial preoptic area is crucial in males of all non-human vertebrates, whereas the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus is important in females. Modulatory functions have been ascribed to several other brain areas.
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Gaytán-Tocavén L, Aguilar-Moreno A, Ortiz J, Alcauter S, Antonio-Cabrera E, Paredes RG. Identification of neural circuits controlling male sexual behavior and sexual motivation by manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1301406. [PMID: 38187924 PMCID: PMC10768062 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1301406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Different techniques have been used to identify the brain regions that control sexual motivation and sexual behavior. However, the influence of sexual experience on the activation of these brain regions in the same subject is unknown. Using manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI), we analyzed the activation of brain regions in the sexual incentive motivation (SIM) and the partner preference PP (tests) on weeks 1, 5, and 10 in male rats tested for 10 weeks. AIM. In experiment 1, we analyzed the possible toxic effects of 16 mg/kg of MnCl2 on male sexual behavior, running wheel, and motor execution. In experiment 2, subjects were tested for SIM and PP using MEMRI. Methods In both experiments, a dose of 16 mg/kg (s.c) of chloride manganese (MnCl2) was administered 24 h before subjects were tested and placed immediately thereafter in a 7-Tesla Bruker scanner. Results In experiment 1, the dose of 16 mg/kg of MnCl2 did not induce behavioral alterations that could interfere with interpreting the imaging data. In experiment 2, we found a clear preference for the female in both the SIM and PP tests. We found a higher signal intensity in the olfactory bulb (OB) in week 1 of the SIM test compared to the control group. We also found increased signal intensity in the socio-sexual behavior and mesolimbic reward circuits in the SIM test in week 1. In the PP test, we found a higher signal intensity in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in week 10 compared to the control group. In the same test, we found increased signal intensity in the socio-sexual and mesolimbic reward circuits in week 5 compared to the control group. Cohen's d analysis of the whole brain revealed that as the subjects gained sexual experience we observed a higher brain activation in the OB in the SIM group. The PP group showed higher brain activation in the cortex and subcortical structures as they acquired sexual experience. Discussion As the subjects gain sexual experience, more structures of the reward and socio-sexual circuits are recruited, resulting in different, and large brain activations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juan Ortiz
- Instituto de Neurobiología, UNAM, Querétaro, Mexico
| | | | | | - Raúl G. Paredes
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla, UNAM, Querétaro, Mexico
- Instituto de Neurobiología, UNAM, Querétaro, Mexico
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5
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Mier Quesada Z, Portillo W, Paredes RG. Behavioral evidence of the functional interaction between the main and accessory olfactory system suggests a large olfactory system with a high plastic capability. Front Neuroanat 2023; 17:1211644. [PMID: 37908970 PMCID: PMC10613685 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2023.1211644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Olfaction is fundamental in many species of mammals. In rodents, the integrity of this system is required for the expression of parental and sexual behavior, mate recognition, identification of predators, and finding food. Different anatomical and physiological evidence initially indicated the existence of two anatomically distinct chemosensory systems: The main olfactory system (MOS) and the accessory olfactory system (AOS). It was originally conceived that the MOS detected volatile odorants related to food, giving the animal information about the environment. The AOS, on the other hand, detected non-volatile sexually relevant olfactory cues that influence reproductive behaviors and neuroendocrine functions such as intermale aggression, sexual preference, maternal aggression, pregnancy block (Bruce effect), puberty acceleration (Vandenbergh effect), induction of estrous (Whitten effect) and sexual behavior. Over the last decade, several lines of evidence have demonstrated that although these systems could be anatomically separated, there are neuronal areas in which they are interconnected. Moreover, it is now clear that both the MOS and the AOS process both volatile and no-volatile odorants, indicating that they are also functionally interconnected. In the first part of the review, we will describe the behavioral evidence. In the second part, we will summarize data from our laboratory and other research groups demonstrating that sexual behavior in male and female rodents induces the formation of new neurons that reach the main and accessory olfactory bulbs from the subventricular zone. Three factors are essential for the neurons to reach the AOS and the MOS: The stimulation frequency, the stimulus's temporal presentation, and the release of opioids induced by sexual behavior. We propose that the AOS and the MOS are part of a large olfactory system with a high plastic capability, which favors the adaptation of species to different environmental signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zacnite Mier Quesada
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Wendy Portillo
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Raúl G. Paredes
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Querétaro, Mexico
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Querétaro, Mexico
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6
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Ågmo A, Laan E. The Sexual Incentive Motivation Model and Its Clinical Applications. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023; 60:969-988. [PMID: 36378887 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2022.2134978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Sexual motivation (desire) requires the simultaneous presence of an active central motive state and a stimulus with sexual significance. Once activated, sexual motivation leads to visceral responses and approach behaviors directed toward the emitter of the sexual stimulus. In humans, such behaviors follow cognitive evaluation of the context, including predictions of the approached individual's response. After successful approach and establishment of physical contact, manifest sexual activities may be initiated. Sexual interaction is associated with and followed by a state of positive affect in most animals, whereas aversive consequences may be experienced by humans. The affective reactions may become associated with stimuli present during sexual interaction, and these stimuli may thereby alter their incentive properties. Here we show how the incentive motivation model can be used to explain the origins and possible treatments of sexual dysfunctions, notably disorders of desire. We propose that associations formed between negative outcomes of sexual interaction and the salient stimuli, for example, the partner, underlies hypoactive desire disorder. Highly positive outcomes of sexual interaction enhance the incentive value of the stimuli present, and eventually lead to hyperactive sexual desire. Treatments aim to alter the impact of sexual incentives, mainly by modifying cognitive processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Ågmo
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø
| | - Ellen Laan
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam
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7
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Watanabe Y, Fisher L, Campbell RE, Jasoni CL. Defining potential targets of prenatal androgen excess: Expression analysis of androgen receptor on hypothalamic neurons in the fetal female mouse brain. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13302. [PMID: 37280378 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a female endocrine disorder that is associated with prenatal exposure to excess androgens. In prenatally androgenized (PNA) mice that model PCOS, GABAergic neural transmission to and innervation of GnRH neurons is increased. Evidence suggests that elevated GABAergic innervation originates in the arcuate nucleus (ARC). We hypothesized that GABA-GnRH circuit abnormalities are a direct consequence of PNA, resulting from DHT binding to androgen receptor (AR) in the prenatal brain. However, whether prenatal ARC neurons express AR at the time of PNA treatment is presently unknown. We used RNAScope in situ hybridization to localize AR mRNA (Ar)-expressing cells in healthy gestational day (GD) 17.5 female mouse brains and to assess coexpression levels in specific neuronal phenotypes. Our study revealed that less than 10% of ARC GABA cells expressed Ar. In contrast, we found that ARC kisspeptin neurons, critical regulators of GnRH neurons, were highly colocalized with Ar. Approximately 75% of ARC Kiss1-expressing cells also expressed Ar at GD17.5, suggesting that ARC kisspeptin neurons are potential targets of PNA. Investigating other neuronal populations in the ARC we found that ~50% of pro-opiomelanocortin (Pomc) cells, 22% of tyrosine hydroxylase (Th) cells, 8% of agouti-related protein (Agrp) cells and 8% of somatostatin (Sst) cells express Ar. Lastly, RNAscope in coronal sections showed Ar expression in the medial preoptic area (mPOA), and the ventral part of the lateral septum (vLS). These Ar-expressing regions were highly GABAergic, and 22% of GABA cells in the mPOA and 25% of GABA cells in the vLS also expressed Ar. Our findings identify specific neuronal phenotypes in the ARC, mPOA, and vLS that are androgen sensitive in late gestation. PNA-induced functional changes in these neurons may be related to the development of impaired central mechanisms associated with PCOS-like features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yugo Watanabe
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Anatomy, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Lorryn Fisher
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Anatomy, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Physiology, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Christine L Jasoni
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Anatomy, University of Otago School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin, New Zealand
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8
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Zhang Y, Li H, Zhang X, Wang S, Wang D, Wang J, Tong T, Zhang Z, Yang Q, Dong H. Estrogen Receptor-A in Medial Preoptic Area Contributes to Sex Difference of Mice in Response to Sevoflurane Anesthesia. Neurosci Bull 2022; 38:703-719. [PMID: 35175557 PMCID: PMC9276904 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00825-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing number of studies have identified sex differences in response to general anesthesia; however, the underlying neural mechanisms are unclear. The medial preoptic area (MPA), an important sexually dimorphic structure and a critical hub for regulating consciousness transition, is enriched with estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), particularly in neuronal clusters that participate in regulating sleep. We found that male mice were more sensitive to sevoflurane. Pharmacological inhibition of ERα in the MPA abolished the sex differences in sevoflurane anesthesia, in particular by extending the induction time and facilitating emergence in males but not in females. Suppression of ERα in vitro inhibited GABAergic and glutamatergic neurons of the MPA in males but not in females. Furthermore, ERα knockdown in GABAergic neurons of the male MPA was sufficient to eliminate sex differences during sevoflurane anesthesia. Collectively, MPA ERα positively regulates the activity of MPA GABAergic neurons in males but not in females, which contributes to the sex difference of mice in sevoflurane anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunyun Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Huiming Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xinxin Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Sa Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jiajia Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Tingting Tong
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Qianzi Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Hailong Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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9
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Ou Y, Che M, Peng J, Zhou M, Wu G, Gong H, Li K, Wang X, Niu P, Qi S, Feng Z. An Efficient Method for the Isolation and Cultivation of Hypothalamic Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells From Mouse Embryos. Front Neuroanat 2022; 16:711138. [PMID: 35185481 PMCID: PMC8854184 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2022.711138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamus is the key region that regulates the neuroendocrine system as well as instinct behaviors, and hypothalamic dysfunction causes refractory clinical problems. Recent studies have indicated that neural stem/progenitor cell (NSPC) in the hypothalamus play a crucial role in hypothalamic function. However, specific hypothalamic NSPC culture methods have not been established, especially not detailed or efficient surgical procedures. The present study presented a convenient, detailed and efficient method for the isolation and cultivation of hypothalamic NSPCs from embryonic day 12.5 mice. The procedure includes embryo acquisition, brain microdissection to quickly obtain hypothalamic tissue and hypothalamic NSPC culture. Hypothalamic NSPCs can be quickly harvested and grow well in both neurosphere and adherent cultures through this method. Additionally, we confirmed the cell origin and evaluated the proliferation and differentiation properties of cultured cells. In conclusion, we present a convenient and practical method for the isolation and cultivation of hypothalamic NSPCs that can be used in extensive hypothalamic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichao Ou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Laboratory for Precision Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mengjie Che
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junjie Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingfeng Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guangsen Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haodong Gong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- First Medical Institute, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xingqin Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peirong Niu
- First Medical Institute, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Songtao Qi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Laboratory for Precision Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Songtao Qi,
| | - Zhanpeng Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Laboratory for Precision Neurosurgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Zhanpeng Feng,
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10
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Jean A, Mhaouty-Kodja S, Hardin-Pouzet H. Hypothalamic cellular and molecular plasticity linked to sexual experience in male rats and mice. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 63:100949. [PMID: 34687674 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Male sexual behavior is subject to learning, resulting in increased efficiency of experienced males compared to naive ones. The improvement in behavioral parameters is underpinned by cellular and molecular changes in the neural circuit controlling sexual behavior, particularly in the hypothalamic medial preoptic area. This review provides an update on the mechanisms related to the sexual experience in male rodents, emphasizing the differences between rats and mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Jean
- Sorbonne Université - Faculté de Sciences et Ingénierie, Neuroplasticité des Comportements de la Reproduction, Neurosciences Paris Seine, UM119 - CNRS UMR 8246 - INSERM UMRS 1130, 7 quai Saint Bernard, 75 005 Paris, France
| | - Sakina Mhaouty-Kodja
- Sorbonne Université - Faculté de Sciences et Ingénierie, Neuroplasticité des Comportements de la Reproduction, Neurosciences Paris Seine, UM119 - CNRS UMR 8246 - INSERM UMRS 1130, 7 quai Saint Bernard, 75 005 Paris, France
| | - Hélène Hardin-Pouzet
- Sorbonne Université - Faculté de Sciences et Ingénierie, Neuroplasticité des Comportements de la Reproduction, Neurosciences Paris Seine, UM119 - CNRS UMR 8246 - INSERM UMRS 1130, 7 quai Saint Bernard, 75 005 Paris, France.
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11
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Gordon-Fennell A, Stuber GD. Illuminating subcortical GABAergic and glutamatergic circuits for reward and aversion. Neuropharmacology 2021; 198:108725. [PMID: 34375625 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Reinforcement, reward, and aversion are fundamental processes for guiding appropriate behaviors. Longstanding theories have pointed to dopaminergic neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the limbic systems' descending pathways as crucial systems for modulating these behaviors. The application of optogenetic techniques in neurotransmitter- and projection-specific circuits has supported and enhanced many preexisting theories but has also revealed many unexpected results. Here, we review the past decade of optogenetic experiments to study the neural circuitry of reinforcement and reward/aversion with a focus on the mesolimbic dopamine system and brain areas along the medial forebrain bundle (MFB). The cumulation of these studies to date has revealed generalizable findings across molecularly defined cell types in areas of the basal forebrain and anterior hypothalamus. Optogenetic stimulation of GABAergic neurons in these brain regions drives reward and can support positive reinforcement and optogenetic stimulation of glutamatergic neurons in these regions drives aversion. We also review studies of the activity dynamics of neurotransmitter defined populations in these areas which have revealed varied response patterns associated with motivated behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Gordon-Fennell
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, 98195, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Garret D Stuber
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, 98195, Seattle, WA, USA.
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12
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Zhang Z, Reis FMCV, He Y, Park JW, DiVittorio JR, Sivakumar N, van Veen JE, Maesta-Pereira S, Shum M, Nichols I, Massa MG, Anderson S, Paul K, Liesa M, Ajijola OA, Xu Y, Adhikari A, Correa SM. Estrogen-sensitive medial preoptic area neurons coordinate torpor in mice. Nat Commun 2020; 11:6378. [PMID: 33311503 PMCID: PMC7732979 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20050-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Homeotherms maintain a stable internal body temperature despite changing environments. During energy deficiency, some species can cease to defend their body temperature and enter a hypothermic and hypometabolic state known as torpor. Recent advances have revealed the medial preoptic area (MPA) as a key site for the regulation of torpor in mice. The MPA is estrogen-sensitive and estrogens also have potent effects on both temperature and metabolism. Here, we demonstrate that estrogen-sensitive neurons in the MPA can coordinate hypothermia and hypometabolism in mice. Selectively activating estrogen-sensitive MPA neurons was sufficient to drive a coordinated depression of metabolic rate and body temperature similar to torpor, as measured by body temperature, physical activity, indirect calorimetry, heart rate, and brain activity. Inducing torpor with a prolonged fast revealed larger and more variable calcium transients from estrogen-sensitive MPA neurons during bouts of hypothermia. Finally, whereas selective ablation of estrogen-sensitive MPA neurons demonstrated that these neurons are required for the full expression of fasting-induced torpor in both female and male mice, their effects on thermoregulation and torpor bout initiation exhibit differences across sex. Together, these findings suggest a role for estrogen-sensitive MPA neurons in directing the thermoregulatory and metabolic responses to energy deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Zhang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Fernando M C V Reis
- Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yanlin He
- USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Jae W Park
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Johnathon R DiVittorio
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Nilla Sivakumar
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - J Edward van Veen
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sandra Maesta-Pereira
- Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael Shum
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - India Nichols
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Megan G Massa
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Shawn Anderson
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ketema Paul
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marc Liesa
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Olujimi A Ajijola
- UCLA Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yong Xu
- USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Avishek Adhikari
- Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stephanie M Correa
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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13
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Díaz-Estrada VX, Barradas-Moctezuma M, Herrera-Covarrubias D, Manzo J, Coria-Avila GA. Nature and nurture of sexual partner preference: Teachings from prenatal administration of acetaminophen in male rats. Horm Behav 2020; 124:104775. [PMID: 32422195 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The organizational-activational hypothesis indicates that activation of adult sexual behavior in males depends on organization of the masculine brain during the perinatal sensitive period. In the medial preoptic area such masculinization depends on a neuroendocrine cascade that includes exposure to testosterone, aromatization to estradiol, activation of estrogen receptors, synthesis of cyclooxygenase (COX), increase of prostaglandins, release of glutamate, and activation of AMPA receptors that result in the formation of more dendritic spines. Thus, in the present study we assessed the sexual partner preference (SPP) of adult male rats prenatally treated with acetaminophen (APAP), an analgesic/antipyretic drug that inhibits COX-2 and is commonly used and prescribed during pregnancy. Female rats received either saline (2 ml/kg s.c.) or APAP (50 mg/kg s.c.) every 12 h, during days 16-20 of pregnancy. At postnatal day PD60 half of the male offspring were exposed to sexual experience with receptive females during 5 trials, and the other half remained sexually naïve. At PD90 all them were tested for SPP with one sexually receptive female and one stud male. The results indicated that only APAP-naïve males failed to display SPP. However, APAP-experienced males displayed SPP for females. We discuss the effects of prenatal APAP in the disruption of unconditioned responses towards females (nature mechanisms), and the effects of sexual experience (nurture mechanisms) in the development of conditioned heterosexual preference.
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Affiliation(s)
- V X Díaz-Estrada
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, 91190 Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - M Barradas-Moctezuma
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, 91190 Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - D Herrera-Covarrubias
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, 91190 Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - J Manzo
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, 91190 Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - G A Coria-Avila
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, 91190 Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico.
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14
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Kiyatkin EA. Brain temperature and its role in physiology and pathophysiology: Lessons from 20 years of thermorecording. Temperature (Austin) 2019; 6:271-333. [PMID: 31934603 PMCID: PMC6949027 DOI: 10.1080/23328940.2019.1691896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that temperature affects the dynamics of all physicochemical processes governing neural activity. It is also known that the brain has high levels of metabolic activity, and all energy used for brain metabolism is finally transformed into heat. However, the issue of brain temperature as a factor reflecting neural activity and affecting various neural functions remains in the shadow and is usually ignored by most physiologists and neuroscientists. Data presented in this review demonstrate that brain temperature is not stable, showing relatively large fluctuations (2-4°C) within the normal physiological and behavioral continuum. I consider the mechanisms underlying these fluctuations and discuss brain thermorecording as an important tool to assess basic changes in neural activity associated with different natural (sexual, drinking, eating) and drug-induced motivated behaviors. I also consider how naturally occurring changes in brain temperature affect neural activity, various homeostatic parameters, and the structural integrity of brain cells as well as the results of neurochemical evaluations conducted in awake animals. While physiological hyperthermia appears to be adaptive, enhancing the efficiency of neural functions, under specific environmental conditions and following exposure to certain psychoactive drugs, brain temperature could exceed its upper limits, resulting in multiple brain abnormalities and life-threatening health complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene A Kiyatkin
- Behavioral Neuroscience Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse - Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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15
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Portillo W, Paredes RG. Motivational Drive in Non-copulating and Socially Monogamous Mammals. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:238. [PMID: 31636551 PMCID: PMC6787552 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00238] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Motivational drives guide behaviors in animals of different species, including humans. Some of these motivations, like looking for food and water, are crucial for the survival of the individual and hence for the preservation of the species. But there is at least another motivation that is also important for the survival of the species but not for the survival of the individual. Undoubtedly, sexual motivation is important for individuals to find a mate and reproduce, thus ensuring the survival of the species. In species with sexual reproduction, when males find a female in the appropriate hormonal conditions, they will display sexual behavior. However, some healthy males do not mate when they have access to a sexually receptive female, even though they are repeatedly tested. These non-copulating (NC) individuals have been reported in murine, cricetid and ungulates. In humans this sexual orientation is denominated asexuality. Asexual individuals are physically and emotionally healthy men and women without desire for sexual intercourse. Different species have developed a variety of strategies to find a mate and reproduce. Most species of mammals are polygamous; they mate with one or several partners at the same time, as occur in rats, or they can reproduce with different conspecifics throughout their life span. There are also monogamous species that only mate with one partner. One of the most studied socially monogamous species is the Prairie vole. In this species mating or cohabitation for long periods induces the formation of a long-lasting pair bond. Both males and females share the nest, show a preference for their sexual partner, display aggression to other males and females and display parental behavior towards their pups. This broad spectrum of reproductive strategies demonstrates the biological variability of sexual motivation and points out the importance of understanding the neurobiological basis of sexual motivational drives in different species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Portillo
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Raúl G Paredes
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico.,Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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16
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Ramzan F, Phung T, Swift-Gallant A, Coome LA, Holmes MM, Monks DA. Both neural and global androgen receptor overexpression affect sexual dimorphism in the mouse brain. J Neuroendocrinol 2019; 31:e12715. [PMID: 30920021 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Testosterone is the main endocrine mechanism mediating sexual differentiation of the mammalian brain, although testosterone signalling is complex and important mechanistic questions remain. Notably, the extent to which testosterone acts via androgen receptors (AR) in this process remains unknown and it is also not clear where testosterone acts in the body to produce sexual dimorphisms in neuroanatomy. To address these questions, we used a transgenic mouse model of Cre/loxP-driven AR overexpression in which AR was induced selectively in neural tissue (Nestin-cre) or in all tissues (CMV-cre). We then studied sexually dimorphic features of several well-characterised sexual dimorphisms: calbindin-immunoreactive neurones in the medial preoptic area (CALB-SDN), tyrosine hydroxylase neurones in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus, and vasopressin-immunoreactive neurones originating in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and their projections in the lateral septum. We additionally evaluated oestrogen receptor α immunoreactivity in these nuclei. Briefly, we found that global but not neural overexpression of AR resulted in masculinisation of CALB-SDN nucleus volume, cell number and cell size in transgenic females. Furthermore, neural AR overexpression resulted in increased oestrogen receptor α staining in females compared to males in the medial preoptic area. AR overexpression did not affect other measures. Overall, the results of the present study provide support for the hypothesis that androgenic mechanisms external to the nervous system can affect sexual differentiation of the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firyal Ramzan
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thanh Phung
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashlyn Swift-Gallant
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Lindsay A Coome
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | - Melissa M Holmes
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - D Ashley Monks
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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17
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Molina-Jiménez T, Jiménez-Tlapa M, Brianza-Padilla M, Zepeda RC, Hernández-González M, Bonilla-Jaime H. The neonatal treatment with clomipramine decreases sexual motivation and increases estrogen receptors expression in the septum of male rats: Effects of the apomorphine. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2019; 180:83-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2019.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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18
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Bedos M, Antaramian A, Gonzalez-Gallardo A, Paredes RG. Paced mating increases the expression of μ opioid receptors in the ventromedial hypothalamus of male rats. Behav Brain Res 2019; 359:401-407. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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19
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Paul JR, Davis JA, Goode LK, Becker BK, Fusilier A, Meador-Woodruff A, Gamble KL. Circadian regulation of membrane physiology in neural oscillators throughout the brain. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 51:109-138. [PMID: 30633846 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Twenty-four-hour rhythmicity in physiology and behavior are driven by changes in neurophysiological activity that vary across the light-dark and rest-activity cycle. Although this neural code is most prominent in neurons of the primary circadian pacemaker in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, there are many other regions in the brain where region-specific function and behavioral rhythmicity may be encoded by changes in electrical properties of those neurons. In this review, we explore the existing evidence for molecular clocks and/or neurophysiological rhythms (i.e., 24 hr) in brain regions outside the SCN. In addition, we highlight the brain regions that are ripe for future investigation into the critical role of circadian rhythmicity for local oscillators. For example, the cerebellum expresses rhythmicity in over 2,000 gene transcripts, and yet we know very little about how circadian regulation drives 24-hr changes in the neural coding responsible for motor coordination. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of how our understanding of circadian regulation of electrical properties may yield insight into disease mechanisms which may lead to novel chronotherapeutic strategies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi R Paul
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Jennifer A Davis
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Lacy K Goode
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Bryan K Becker
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Allison Fusilier
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Aidan Meador-Woodruff
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Karen L Gamble
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
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20
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Bedos M, Portillo W, Paredes RG. Neurogenesis and sexual behavior. Front Neuroendocrinol 2018; 51:68-79. [PMID: 29438737 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Different conditions induce proliferation, migration and integration of new neurons in the adult brain. This process of neurogenesis is a clear example of long lasting plastic changes in the brain of different species. Sexual behavior is a motivated behavior that is crucial for the survival of the species, but an individual can spend all his life without displaying sexual behavior. In the present review, we briefly describe some of the effects of pheromones on neurogenesis. We review in detail studies describing the effects of sexual behavior in both males and females on proliferation, migration and integration of new cells and neurons. It will become evident that most of the studies have been done in rodents, assessing the effects of this behavior on neurogenesis within the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus and in the subventricular zone - rostral migratory stream - olfactory bulb system.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bedos
- CONACYT - Instituto de Neurobiología - Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Blvd Juriquilla 3001, Campus UNAM-Juriquilla, 76230 Querétaro, QRO, México
| | - W Portillo
- Instituto de Neurobiología - Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Blvd Juriquilla 3001, Campus UNAM-Juriquilla, 76230 Querétaro, QRO, México
| | - R G Paredes
- Instituto de Neurobiología - Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Blvd Juriquilla 3001, Campus UNAM-Juriquilla, 76230 Querétaro, QRO, México.
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21
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Le Moëne O, Ågmo A. The neuroendocrinology of sexual attraction. Front Neuroendocrinol 2018; 51:46-67. [PMID: 29288076 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2017.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Sexual attraction has two components: Emission of sexually attractive stimuli and responsiveness to these stimuli. In rodents, olfactory stimuli are necessary but not sufficient for attraction. We argue that body odors are far superior to odors from excreta (urine, feces) as sexual attractants. Body odors are produced by sebaceous glands all over the body surface and in specialized glands. In primates, visual stimuli, for example the sexual skin, are more important than olfactory. The role of gonadal hormones for the production of and responsiveness to odorants is well established. Both the androgen and the estrogen receptor α are important in male as well as in female rodents. Also in primates, gonadal hormones are necessary for the responsiveness to sexual attractants. In males, the androgen receptor is sufficient for sustaining responsiveness. In female non-human primates, estrogens are needed, whereas androgens seem to contribute to responsiveness in women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anders Ågmo
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, Norway.
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22
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Seizert CA. The neurobiology of the male sexual refractory period. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 92:350-377. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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23
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Roselli CE. Neurobiology of gender identity and sexual orientation. J Neuroendocrinol 2018; 30:e12562. [PMID: 29211317 PMCID: PMC6677266 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Revised: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sexual identity and sexual orientation are independent components of a person's sexual identity. These dimensions are most often in harmony with each other and with an individual's genital sex, although not always. The present review discusses the relationship of sexual identity and sexual orientation to prenatal factors that act to shape the development of the brain and the expression of sexual behaviours in animals and humans. One major influence discussed relates to organisational effects that the early hormone environment exerts on both gender identity and sexual orientation. Evidence that gender identity and sexual orientation are masculinised by prenatal exposure to testosterone and feminised in it absence is drawn from basic research in animals, correlations of biometric indices of androgen exposure and studies of clinical conditions associated with disorders in sexual development. There are, however, important exceptions to this theory that have yet to be resolved. Family and twin studies indicate that genes play a role, although no specific candidate genes have been identified. Evidence that relates to the number of older brothers implicates maternal immune responses as a contributing factor for male sexual orientation. It remains speculative how these influences might relate to each other and interact with postnatal socialisation. Nonetheless, despite the many challenges to research in this area, existing empirical evidence makes it clear that there is a significant biological contribution to the development of an individual's sexual identity and sexual orientation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Roselli
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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24
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25
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Ventura-Aquino E, Fernández-Guasti A, Paredes RG. Hormones and the Coolidge effect. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 467:42-48. [PMID: 28912031 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The Coolidge effect is the renewal of sexual behavior after the presentation of a novel sexual partner and possibly occurs as the result of habituation and dishabituation processes. This re-motivation to copulate is well studied in males and is commonly related to sexual satiety, which involves several neurobiological changes in steroid receptors and their mRNA expression in the CNS. On the other hand, there are few reports studying sexual novelty in females and have been limited to behavioral aspects. Here we report that the levels of rat proceptive behavior, a sign of sexual motivation, declines after 4 h of continuous mating, particularly in females that were unable to regulate the time of mating. Such reduction was not accompanied by changes in lordosis, suggesting that they were not due to the vanishing of the endocrine optimal milieu necessary for the expression of both components of sexual behavior in the female rat. These and previous data support important differences between sexual behavior in both sexes that would result in natural divergences in the Coolidge effect expression. We here also review some reports in humans showing peculiarities between the pattern of habituation and dishabituation in women and men. This is a growing research field that needs emphasis in female subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Ventura-Aquino
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico; Departamento de Farmacobiología, CINVESTAV-Sede Sur, Mexico.
| | | | - Raúl G Paredes
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
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26
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Fujiwara M, Chiba A. Sexual odor preference and dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens by estrous olfactory cues in sexually naïve and experienced male rats. Physiol Behav 2017; 185:95-102. [PMID: 29289614 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2017.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Sexual behavior is a natural reward that activates mesolimbic dopaminergic system. Microdialysis studies have shown that extracellular level of dopamine (DA) in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) significantly increases during copulation in male rats. The NAcc DA level is also known to be increased during the presentation of a sexually receptive female before mating. This rise in DA was probably associated with sexual motivation elicited by incentive stimuli from the receptive female. These microdialysis studies, however, did not thoroughly investigated if olfactory stimuli from estrous females could significantly increase the extracellular DA in the NAcc of male rats. The present study was designed to examine systematically the relationship between the expression of preference for the olfactory stimuli from estrous females and the effects of these stimuli on the extracellular DA levels in the NAcc measured by in vivo microdialysis in male Long-Evans (LE) rats. We used two types of olfactory stimuli, either airborne odors (volatile stimuli) or soiled bedding (volatile plus nonvolatile stimuli). The sexually experienced male rats, which experienced six ejaculations, significantly preferred both of these olfactory stimuli from estrous females as opposed to males. Exposure to these female olfactory stimuli gradually increased extracellular DA in the NAcc, which reached significantly higher level above baseline during the period following the removal of the stimuli although not during the 15-min stimulus presentation period. The sexually naïve male rats, on the other hand, showed neither preference for olfactory stimuli from estrous females nor increase in the NAcc DA after exposure to these stimuli. These data suggest that in male LE rats olfactory stimuli from estrous females in and of themselves can be conditional cues that induce both incentive motivation and a significant increase in the NAcc DA probably as a result of being associated with sexual reward through copulatory experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaya Fujiwara
- Department of Materials and Life Sciences, Sophia University, Tokyo 102-8554, Japan.
| | - Atsuhiko Chiba
- Department of Materials and Life Sciences, Sophia University, Tokyo 102-8554, Japan.
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27
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Shin S, Pribiag H, Lilascharoen V, Knowland D, Wang XY, Lim BK. Drd3 Signaling in the Lateral Septum Mediates Early Life Stress-Induced Social Dysfunction. Neuron 2017; 97:195-208.e6. [PMID: 29276054 PMCID: PMC5766830 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2017.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Revised: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Early life stress (ELS) in the form of child abuse/neglect is associated with an increased risk of developing social dysfunction in adulthood. Little is known, however, about the neural substrates or the neuromodulatory signaling that govern ELS-induced social dysfunction. Here, we show that ELS-induced downregulation of dopamine receptor 3 (Drd3) signaling and its corresponding effects on neural activity in the lateral septum (LS) are both necessary and sufficient to cause social abnormalities in adulthood. Using in vivo Ca2+ imaging, we found that Drd3-expressing-LS (Drd3LS) neurons in animals exposed to ELS show blunted activity in response to social stimuli. In addition, optogenetic activation of Drd3LS neurons rescues ELS-induced social impairments. Furthermore, pharmacological treatment with a Drd3 agonist, which increases Drd3LS neuronal activity, normalizes the social dysfunctions of ELS mice. Thus, we identify Drd3 in the LS as a critical mediator and potential therapeutic target for the social abnormalities caused by ELS. Early social deprivation (ESD) causes downregulation of Drd3 signaling in the LS Blunted LS Drd3 neuronal activity mediate ESD-induced social dysfunctions Drd3 signaling has corresponding effects on neuronal activity in the LS Activation of Drd3 signaling in the LS normalize social impairments of ESD mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Sora Shin
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Horia Pribiag
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Varoth Lilascharoen
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Daniel Knowland
- Neurosciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Xiao-Yun Wang
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Byung Kook Lim
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Neurosciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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28
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Estradiol increases choice of cocaine over food in male rats. Physiol Behav 2017; 203:18-24. [PMID: 29056351 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2017.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Estradiol modulates the rewarding and reinforcing properties of cocaine in females, including an increase in selection of cocaine over alternative reinforcers. However, the effects of estradiol on male cocaine self-administration behavior are less studied despite equivalent levels of estradiol in the brains of adult males and females, estradiol effects on motivated behaviors in males that share underlying neural substrates with cocaine reinforcement as well as expression of estrogen receptors in the male brain. Therefore, we sought to characterize the effects of estradiol in males on choice between concurrently-available cocaine and food reinforcement as well as responding for cocaine or food in isolation. Male castrated rats (n=46) were treated daily with estradiol benzoate (EB) (5μg/0.1, S.C.) or vehicle (peanut oil) throughout operant acquisition of cocaine (1mg/kg, IV; FI20 sec) and food (3×45mg; FI20 sec) responding, choice during concurrent access and cocaine and food reinforcement under progressive ratio (PR) schedules. EB increased cocaine choice, both in terms of percent of trials on which cocaine was selected and the proportion of rats exhibiting a cocaine preference as well as increased cocaine, but not food, intake under PR. Additionally, within the EB treated group, cocaine-preferring rats exhibited enhanced acquisition of cocaine, but not food, reinforcement whereas no acquisition differences were observed across preferences in the vehicle treated group. These findings demonstrate that estradiol increases cocaine choice in males similarly to what is observed in females.
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Vastagh C, Liposits Z. Impact of Proestrus on Gene Expression in the Medial Preoptic Area of Mice. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:183. [PMID: 28725181 PMCID: PMC5495965 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The antero-ventral periventricular zone (AVPV) and medial preoptic area (MPOA) have been recognized as gonadal hormone receptive regions of the rodent brain that-via wiring to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons-contribute to orchestration of the preovulatory GnRH surge. We hypothesized that neural genes regulating the induction of GnRH surge show altered expression in proestrus. Therefore, we compared the expression of 48 genes obtained from intact proestrous and metestrous mice, respectively, by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) method. Differential expression of 24 genes reached significance (p < 0.05). Genes upregulated in proestrus encoded neuropeptides (kisspeptin (KP), galanin (GAL), neurotensin (NT), cholecystokinin (CCK)), hormone receptors (growth hormone secretagogue receptor, μ-opioid receptor), gonadal steroid receptors (estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), progesterone receptor (PR), androgen receptor (AR)), solute carrier family proteins (vesicular glutamate transporter 2, vesicular monoamine transporter 2), proteins of transmitter synthesis (tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)) and transmitter receptor subunit (AMPA4), and other proteins (uncoupling protein 2, nuclear receptor related 1 protein). Proestrus evoked a marked downregulation of genes coding for adenosine A2a receptor, vesicular gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporter, 4-aminobutyrate aminotransferase, tachykinin precursor 1, NT receptor 3, arginine vasopressin receptor 1A, cannabinoid receptor 1, ephrin receptor A3 and aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family, member L1. Immunocytochemistry was used to visualize the proteins encoded by Kiss1, Gal, Cck and Th genes in neuronal subsets of the AVPV/MPOA of the proestrous mice. The results indicate that gene expression of the AVPV/MPOA is significantly modified at late proestrus including genes that code for neuropeptides, gonadal steroid hormone receptors and synaptic vesicle transporters. These events support cellular and neuronal network requirements of the positive estradiol feedback action and contribute to preparation of the GnRH neuron system for the pre-ovulatory surge release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Vastagh
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of SciencesBudapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Liposits
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of SciencesBudapest, Hungary.,Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic UniversityBudapest, Hungary
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Animal Models in Sexual Medicine: The Need and Importance of Studying Sexual Motivation. Sex Med Rev 2017; 5:5-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2016.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2016] [Revised: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Clinard CT, Barnes AK, Adler SG, Cooper MA. Winning agonistic encounters increases testosterone and androgen receptor expression in Syrian hamsters. Horm Behav 2016; 86:27-35. [PMID: 27619945 PMCID: PMC5159211 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2016.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Winning aggressive disputes is one of several experiences that can alter responses to future stressful events. We have previously tested dominant and subordinate male Syrian hamsters in a conditioned defeat model and found that dominant individuals show less change in behavior following social defeat stress compared to subordinates and controls, indicating a reduced conditioned defeat response. Resistance to the effects of social defeat in dominants is experience-dependent and requires the maintenance of dominance relationships for 14days. For this study we investigated whether winning aggressive interactions increases plasma testosterone and whether repeatedly winning increases androgen receptor expression. First, male hamsters were paired in daily 10-min aggressive encounters and blood samples were collected immediately before and 15min and 30min after the formation of dominance relationships. Dominants showed an increase in plasma testosterone at 15min post-interaction compared to their pre-interaction baseline, whereas subordinates and controls showed no change in plasma testosterone. Secondly, we investigated whether 14days of dominant social status increased androgen or estrogen alpha-receptor immunoreactivity in brain regions that regulate the conditioned defeat response. Dominants showed more androgen, but not estrogen alpha, receptor immuno-positive cells in the dorsal medial amygdala (dMeA) and ventral lateral septum (vLS) compared to subordinates and controls. Finally, we showed that one day of dominant social status was insufficient to increase androgen receptor immunoreactivity compared to subordinates. These results suggest that elevated testosterone signaling at androgen receptors in the dMeA and vLS might contribute to the reduced conditioned defeat response exhibited by dominant hamsters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine T Clinard
- Department of Psychology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States.
| | - Abigail K Barnes
- Department of Psychology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States
| | - Samuel G Adler
- Department of Psychology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States
| | - Matthew A Cooper
- Department of Psychology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States
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Olfactory receptor for prostaglandin F2α mediates male fish courtship behavior. Nat Neurosci 2016; 19:897-904. [PMID: 27239939 DOI: 10.1038/nn.4314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Pheromones play vital roles for survival and reproduction in various organisms. In many fishes, prostaglandin F2α acts not only as a female reproductive hormone, facilitating ovulation and spawning, but also as a sex pheromone inducing male reproductive behaviors. Here, we unravel the molecular and neural circuit mechanisms underlying the pheromonal action of prostaglandin F2α in zebrafish. Prostaglandin F2α specifically activates two olfactory receptors with different sensitivities and expression in distinct populations of ciliated olfactory sensory neurons. Pheromone information is then transmitted to two ventromedial glomeruli in the olfactory bulb and further to four regions in higher olfactory centers. Mutant male zebrafish deficient in the high-affinity receptor exhibit loss of attractive response to prostaglandin F2α and impairment of courtship behaviors toward female fish. These findings demonstrate the functional significance and activation of selective neural circuitry for the sex pheromone prostaglandin F2α and its cognate olfactory receptor in fish reproductive behavior.
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Effects of Prepubertal or Adult Site-Specific Knockdown of Estrogen Receptor β in the Medial Preoptic Area and Medial Amygdala on Social Behaviors in Male Mice. eNeuro 2016; 3:eN-NWR-0155-15. [PMID: 27066533 PMCID: PMC4819287 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0155-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Revised: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Testosterone, after being converted to estradiol in the brain, acts on estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) and controls the expression of male-type social behavior. Previous studies in male mice have revealed that ERα expressed in the medial preoptic area (MPOA) and medial amygdala (MeA) are differently involved in the regulation of sexual and aggressive behaviors by testosterone action at the time of testing in adult and/or on brain masculinization process during pubertal period. However, a role played by ERβ in these brain regions still remains unclear. Here we examined the effects of site-specific knockdown of ERβ (βERKD) in the MPOA and MeA on male social behaviors with the use of adeno-associated viral mediated RNA interference methods in ICR/Jcl mice. Prepubertal βERKD in the MPOA revealed that continuous suppression of ERβ gene expression throughout the pubertal period and adulthood decreased aggressive but not sexual behavior tested as adults. Because βERKD in the MPOA only in adulthood did not affect either sexual or aggressive behaviors, it was concluded that pubertal ERβ in the MPOA might have an essential role for the full expression of aggressive behavior in adulthood. On the other hand, although neither prepubertal nor adult βERKD in the MeA had any effects on sexual and aggressive behavior, βERKD in adulthood disrupted sexual preference of receptive females over nonreceptive females. Collectively, these results suggest that ERβ in the MPOA and MeA are involved in the regulation of male sexual and aggressive behavior in a manner substantially different from that of ERα.
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Brock O, De Mees C, Bakker J. Hypothalamic expression of oestrogen receptor α and androgen receptor is sex-, age- and region-dependent in mice. J Neuroendocrinol 2015; 27:264-76. [PMID: 25599767 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones act on developing neural circuits regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and are involved in hormone-sensitive behaviours. These hormones act mainly via nuclear receptors, such as oestrogen receptor (ER)-α and androgen receptor (AR). By using immunohistochemistry, we analysed the expression level of ERα and AR throughout perinatal life [at embryonic (E) day 19 and postnatal (P) days 5, 15 and 25] and in adulthood in several hypothalamic nuclei controlling reproduction in both wild-type and aromatase knockout (ArKO) (i.e. which cannot convert testosterone into oestradiol) mice to determine whether there are sex differences in hypothalamic ERα and AR expression and, if so, whether these are established by the action of oestradiol. As early as E19, ERα immunoreactivity (-IR) was observed at same expression levels in both sexes in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPv), the medial preoptic area (MPOA), the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BnST), the ventrolateral part of the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus and the arcuate nucleus (ARC). Sex differences (female > male) in ERα-IR were observed not only during the prepubertal period in the BnST (P5 to P25) and the MPOA (P15), but also in adulthood in these two brain regions. Sex differences in AR-IR (male > female) were observed at P5 in the AVPv and ARC, and at P25 in the MPOA and ARC, as well as in adulthood in all hypothalamic regions analysed. In adulthood, gonadectomy and hormonal treatment (oestradiol or dihydrotestosterone) also strongly modulated ERα-IR and AR, respectively. Taken together, sex differences in ERα-IR and AR-IR were observed in all hypothalamic regions analysed, although they most likely do not reflect the action of oestradiol because ArKO mice of both sexes showed expression levels very similar to wild-type mice throughout perinatal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Brock
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Bastida CC, Puga F, Gonzalez-Lima F, Jennings KJ, Wommack JC, Delville Y. Chronic social stress in puberty alters appetitive male sexual behavior and neural metabolic activity. Horm Behav 2014; 66:220-7. [PMID: 24852486 PMCID: PMC4127097 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2014.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Revised: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Repeated social subjugation in early puberty lowers testosterone levels. We used hamsters to investigate the effects of social subjugation on male sexual behavior and metabolic activity within neural systems controlling social and motivational behaviors. Subjugated animals were exposed daily to aggressive adult males in early puberty for postnatal days 28 to 42, while control animals were placed in empty clean cages. On postnatal day 45, they were tested for male sexual behavior in the presence of receptive female. Alternatively, they were tested for mate choice after placement at the base of a Y-maze containing a sexually receptive female in one tip of the maze and an ovariectomized one on the other. Social subjugation did not affect the capacity to mate with receptive females. Although control animals were fast to approach females and preferred ovariectomized individuals, subjugated animals stayed away from them and showed no preference. Cytochrome oxidase activity was reduced within the preoptic area and ventral tegmental area in subjugated hamsters. In addition, the correlation of metabolic activity of these areas with the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and anterior parietal cortex changed significantly from positive in controls to negative in subjugated animals. These data show that at mid-puberty, while male hamsters are capable of mating, their appetitive sexual behavior is not fully mature and this aspect of male sexual behavior is responsive to social subjugation. Furthermore, metabolic activity and coordination of activity in brain areas related to sexual behavior and motivation were altered by social subjugation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christel C Bastida
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, A8000, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
| | - Frank Puga
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, A8000, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Francisco Gonzalez-Lima
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, A8000, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Kimberly J Jennings
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, A8000, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Joel C Wommack
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, A8000, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Yvon Delville
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, A8000, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
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Antonio-Cabrera E, Paredes RG. Testosterone or oestradiol implants in the medial preoptic area induce mating in noncopulating male rats. J Neuroendocrinol 2014; 26:448-58. [PMID: 24824045 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Revised: 05/01/2014] [Accepted: 05/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Noncopulating (NC) male rats are those males that do not mount, intromit or ejaculate when repeatedly tested with receptive females. The lack of sexual behaviour in these males is not associated with alterations in testosterone or oestradiol (E2) plasma concentrations. Instead, it has been shown that androgen receptors are higher and oestrogen receptors are lower in the medial preoptic area (MPOA) of NC male rats than those observed in copulating (C) male rats. We have also observed reduced aromatase activity in the MPOA (but not in other brain regions) of NC male rats. The aim of the present study was to determine whether testosterone or E2 implants in the MPOA of NC male rats could induce sexual behaviour. Accordingly, in Experiment 1, we evaluated the long-term effects of testosterone or E2 implants in the MPOA, the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus or the medial amygdala with respect to inducing sexual behaviour in castrated C male rats. Male rats were bilaterally implanted with a guide cannula, either empty or containing testosterone or E2. Starting 1 week later, all male rats were mated once weekly for 5 months. As described previously, the site where hormone implants most consistently induced sexual behaviour in castrated C male rats was the MPOA. Experiment 1 extended these findings showing that the males continued mating even 5 months after the implant. In the second experiment, NC males were implanted in the MPOA with a guide cannula empty or filled with testosterone or E2. One week after the testosterone or E2 implant, the percentage of males that mounted and intromitted started to increase and, 5 weeks after the implant, 50% of the subjects displayed mounts and intromissions. All NC males implanted with testosterone ejaculated consistently from week 11 after the implant until the end of testing (5 months), whereas all subjects implanted with E2 ejaculated from week 16 after the implant until the end of testing. These results support the hypothesis that, in the MPOA of NC male rats, there is a hormonal alteration associated with the lack of sexual behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Antonio-Cabrera
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, México
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Paredes R. Opioids and sexual reward. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2014; 121:124-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2013.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2013] [Revised: 10/16/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Coria-Avila GA, Paredes-Ramos P, Galán R, Herrera-Covarrubias D, López-Meraz ML. Status epilepticus during early development disrupts sexual behavior in adult female rats: recovery with sexual experience. Epilepsy Behav 2014; 34:15-9. [PMID: 24674939 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Revised: 02/21/2014] [Accepted: 02/23/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Female sexual behavior is sensitive to stress and diseases. Some studies have shown that status epilepticus (SE) can affect sexual proceptivity and receptivity in female rats and also increases reject responses towards males. However, epidemiologic studies indicate that SE is more frequent in young individuals. Herein, we assessed the effects of SE in infant females on their sexual behavior during adulthood. Thirteen-day-old (P13) rat pups received intraperitoneal injections of lithium chloride (3 mEq/kg). Twenty hours later, at P14, SE was induced by subcutaneous injection of pilocarpine hydrochloride (100 mg/kg s.c.). Control animals were given an equal volume of saline subcutaneously. The animals were weaned at P21 and, later in adulthood, were ovariectomized and hormone-primed with estradiol+progesterone, and their sexual behavior assessed during 4 separate trials of 30 min each with a stud male. Our results indicate that proceptive behaviors (solicitations and hops and darts) were impaired during the first trial, but no alterations were observed for receptivity and attractivity. By trial 3, all SE females displayed normal proceptivity. These results indicate that SE in infancy readily affects proceptivity in a reversible manner. We discuss the role of sexual experience in recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genaro Alfonso Coria-Avila
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Av. Luis Castelazo s/n Carr. Xalapa-Veracruz, Km. 3.5 Col. Industrial-Animas, C.P. 91190 Xalapa, Mexico.
| | - Pedro Paredes-Ramos
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Av. Luis Castelazo s/n Carr. Xalapa-Veracruz, Km. 3.5 Col. Industrial-Animas, C.P. 91190 Xalapa, Mexico.
| | - Ricardo Galán
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Av. Luis Castelazo s/n Carr. Xalapa-Veracruz, Km. 3.5 Col. Industrial-Animas, C.P. 91190 Xalapa, Mexico.
| | - Deissy Herrera-Covarrubias
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Av. Luis Castelazo s/n Carr. Xalapa-Veracruz, Km. 3.5 Col. Industrial-Animas, C.P. 91190 Xalapa, Mexico.
| | - Maria-Leonor López-Meraz
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Av. Luis Castelazo s/n Carr. Xalapa-Veracruz, Km. 3.5 Col. Industrial-Animas, C.P. 91190 Xalapa, Mexico.
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Differential effects of global versus local testosterone on singing behavior and its underlying neural substrate. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 110:19573-8. [PMID: 24218603 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1311371110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroid hormones regulate multiple but distinct aspects of social behaviors. Testosterone (T) has multiple effects on learned courtship song in that it regulates both the motivation to sing in a particular social context as well as the quality of song produced. The neural substrate(s) where T acts to regulate the motivation to sing as opposed to other aspects of song has not been definitively characterized. We show here that T implants in the medial preoptic nucleus (POM) of castrated male canaries (Serinus canaria) increase song rate but do not enhance acoustic features such as song stereotypy compared with birds receiving peripheral T that can act globally throughout the brain. Strikingly, T action in the POM increased song control nuclei volume, consistent with the hypothesis that singing activity induces neuroplasticity in the song control system independent of T acting in these nuclei. When presented with a female canary, POM-T birds copulated at a rate comparable to birds receiving systemic T but produced fewer calls and songs in her presence. Thus, POM is a key site where T acts to activate copulation and increase song rate, an appetitive sexual behavior in songbirds, but T action in other areas of the brain or periphery (e.g., HVC, dopaminergic cell groups, or the syrinx) is required to enhance the quality of song (i.e., stereotypy) as well as regulate context-specific vocalizations. These results have broad implications for research concerning how steroids act at multiple brain loci to regulate distinct sociosexual behaviors and the associated neuroplasticity.
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Infusion of endomorphin-1 (EM-1) in the MPOA and the Me modulate sexual and socio-sexual behavior in the male rat. Brain Res 2013; 1517:36-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2013.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 03/06/2013] [Accepted: 04/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Portillo W, Antonio-Cabrera E, Camacho FJ, Díaz NF, Paredes RG. Behavioral characterization of non-copulating male mice. Horm Behav 2013; 64:70-80. [PMID: 23673371 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2013.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Revised: 04/30/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Non-copulating (NC) males are those animals that do not mate in spite of repeated testing with sexually receptive females. They have been observed in several species including rats and mice. The present experiment was designed to perform a detailed behavioral characterization of NC male mice. Thus, we evaluated their sexual incentive motivation for a sexually receptive female or a sexually active male, olfactory preference for volatile and non-volatile odors from females or males, and olfactory discrimination between female and male volatile odors and food related odors (milk versus vinegar). We compared the activity of the accessory olfactory system (AOS) in copulating (C) and NC males in response to estrous bedding using the induction of Fos-immunoreactivity (Fos-IR) as a measure of neuronal activation. We also determined if estradiol or dopamine treatment could induce sexual behavior in NC males. Finally, we compared the testis weight and the number of penile spines in C, NC, and gonadectomized males. In the sexual incentive motivation test C males spend significantly more time in the female incentive zone than in the male incentive zone. On the other hand, NC males spend the same amount of time in both incentive zones. In tests of olfactory preference, NC males spent less time investigating estrous odors than C males. As well, NC males discriminate urine from conspecifics but they spend less time smelling these odors than C males. In addition, no increase in Fos expression is observed in NC males when they are exposed to odors from estrous females. Our data also suggest that the deficits observed in NC males are not due to lower circulating levels of gonadal hormones, because estradiol supplementation does not induce sexual behavior in these animals, and their testis weight and the number of penile spines are normal. The results suggest that NC males are not sexually motivated by the receptive females and their odors.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Portillo
- Instituto de Neurobiología Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México.
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Wehrum S, Klucken T, Kagerer S, Walter B, Hermann A, Vaitl D, Stark R. Gender commonalities and differences in the neural processing of visual sexual stimuli. J Sex Med 2013; 10:1328-42. [PMID: 23421466 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Few studies so far have directly compared the neural processing of visual sexual stimuli in men and women. Also, most of these studies only compared sexual with neutral stimuli, making it difficult to disentangle sexual stimulus processing from general emotional processing. AIM The current study aimed to explore gender commonalities and differences in neural activity associated with the processing of visual sexual stimuli in a large sample of 50 men and 50 women. In order to disentangle effects of sexual processing from those of general emotional processing, we employed sexual, neutral, positive, and negative emotional pictures. METHODS Subjects passively viewed sexual, neutral, positive, and negative emotional pictures during a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) session. Pictures were presented in 24 blocks of five pictures each. Every block was rated immediately after its presentation with respect to valence, arousal, and sexual arousal. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Blood oxygen level dependent responses measured by fMRI and subjective ratings. RESULTS fMRI analysis revealed a distributed network for the neural processing of sexual stimuli comprising the hypothalamus, the nucleus accumbens, as well as orbitofrontal, occipital, and parietal areas. This network could be identified (i) for both men and women, with men showing overall stronger activations than women and (ii) independent of general emotional arousal or valence effects. CONCLUSION Our data speak in favor of a common neural network associated with the processing of visual sexual stimuli in men and women. Apart from the observed gender commonalities, overall stronger responses in men were observed that might indicate stronger sexual responsivity in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Wehrum
- Bender Institute of Neuroimaging, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.
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Sano K, Tsuda MC, Musatov S, Sakamoto T, Ogawa S. Differential effects of site-specific knockdown of estrogen receptor α in the medial amygdala, medial pre-optic area, and ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus on sexual and aggressive behavior of male mice. Eur J Neurosci 2013; 37:1308-19. [PMID: 23347260 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2012] [Revised: 12/11/2012] [Accepted: 12/17/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Testosterone is known to play an important role in the regulation of male-type sexual and aggressive behavior. As an aromatised metabolite of testosterone, estradiol-induced activation of estrogen receptor α (ERα) may be crucial for the induction of these behaviors in male mice. However, the importance of ERα expressed in different nuclei for this facilitatory action of testosterone has not been determined. To investigate this issue, we generated an adeno-associated virus vector expressing a small hairpin RNA targeting ERα to site-specifically knockdown ERα expression. We stereotaxically injected either a control or ERα targeting vector into the medial amygdala, medial pre-optic area (MPOA), or ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMN) in gonadally intact male mice. Two weeks after injection, all mice were tested biweekly for sexual and aggressive behavior, alternating between behavior tests each week. We found that suppressing ERα in the MPOA reduced sexual but not aggressive behavior, whereas in the VMN it reduced both behaviors. Knockdown of ERα in the medial amygdala did not alter either behavior. Additionally, it was found that ERα knockdown in the MPOA caused a parallel reduction in the number of neuronal nitric oxide synthase-expressing cells. Taken together, these results indicate that the testosterone facilitatory action on male sexual behavior requires the expression of ERα in both the MPOA and VMN, whereas the testosterone facilitatory action on aggression requires the expression of ERα in only the VMN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Sano
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroendocrinology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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Raineki C, Lutz ML, Sebben V, Ribeiro RA, Lucion AB. Neonatal handling induces deficits in infant mother preference and adult partner preference. Dev Psychobiol 2012; 55:496-507. [DOI: 10.1002/dev.21053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2012] [Accepted: 05/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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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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Roselli CE, Estill CT, Stadelman HL, Meaker M, Stormshak F. Separate critical periods exist for testosterone-induced differentiation of the brain and genitals in sheep. Endocrinology 2011; 152:2409-15. [PMID: 21447635 PMCID: PMC3206706 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-1445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2010] [Accepted: 03/07/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Sheep exposed to testosterone during a critical period from gestational day (GD) 30 to GD 90 develop masculine genitals and an enlarged male-typical ovine sexually dimorphic nucleus of the preoptic area (oSDN). The present study tested the hypothesis that separate critical periods exist for masculinization of these two anatomical end points. Pregnant ewes were treated with testosterone propionate (TP) either from GD 30 to GD 60 (early TP) or GD 60 to GD 90 (late TP). Control (C) pregnant ewes were treated with corn oil. Fetuses were delivered at GD 135 and the volume of the oSDN was measured. Early TP females possessed a penis and a scrotum devoid of testes, whereas late TP and C females had normal female genitals. Neither period of TP exposure grossly affected the genitals of male fetuses. Despite masculinized genitals, the mean volume of the oSDN in early TP females (0.32 ± 0.06 mm³) was not different from C females (0.24 ± 0.02 mm³) but was significantly enlarged in late TP females (0.49 ± 0.04 mm³; P < 0.05 vs. C) when the genitals appeared normal. In contrast, the volume of the oSDN in late TP males (0.51 ± 0.02 mm³) was not different from C males (0.51 ± 0.04 mm³) but was significantly smaller in the early TP males (0.35 ± 0.04 mm³; P < 0.05 vs. C). These results demonstrate that the prenatal critical period for androgen-dependent differentiation of the oSDN occurs later than, and can be separated temporally from, the period for development of masculine genitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles E Roselli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology L334, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, USA.
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Druzin M, Malinina E, Grimsholm O, Johansson S. Mechanism of estradiol-induced block of voltage-gated K+ currents in rat medial preoptic neurons. PLoS One 2011; 6:e20213. [PMID: 21625454 PMCID: PMC3098870 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Accepted: 04/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study was conducted to characterize possible rapid effects of 17-β-estradiol on voltage-gated K+ channels in preoptic neurons and, in particular, to identify the mechanisms by which 17-β-estradiol affects the K+ channels. Whole-cell currents from dissociated rat preoptic neurons were studied by perforated-patch recording. 17-β-estradiol rapidly (within seconds) and reversibly reduced the K+ currents, showing an EC50 value of 9.7 µM. The effect was slightly voltage dependent, but independent of external Ca2+, and not sensitive to an estrogen-receptor blocker. Although 17-α-estradiol also significantly reduced the K+ currents, membrane-impermeant forms of estradiol did not reduce the K+ currents and other estrogens, testosterone and cholesterol were considerably less effective. The reduction induced by estradiol was overlapping with that of the KV-2-channel blocker r-stromatoxin-1. The time course of K+ current in 17-β-estradiol, with a time-dependent inhibition and a slight dependence on external K+, suggested an open-channel block mechanism. The properties of block were predicted from a computational model where 17-β-estradiol binds to open K+ channels. It was concluded that 17-β-estradiol rapidly reduces voltage-gated K+ currents in a way consistent with an open-channel block mechanism. This suggests a new mechanism for steroid action on ion channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Druzin
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Section for Physiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Evgenya Malinina
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Section for Physiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ola Grimsholm
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Section for Physiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Staffan Johansson
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Section for Physiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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Agmo A. On the intricate relationship between sexual motivation and arousal. Horm Behav 2011; 59:681-8. [PMID: 20816969 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2010] [Revised: 08/25/2010] [Accepted: 08/25/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Sexual motivation and sexual arousal are widely used concepts. While there seem to be considerable agreement as to the meaning of sexual motivation, there is certain confusion about the exact meaning of sexual arousal. Some use it as a synonym to sexual motivation and others make it equivalent to erection or vaginal lubrication. An unresolved question is the relationship between sexual arousal and general arousal as well as that between arousal and motivation. I present arguments for the view that arousal refers to the general state of alertness of the organism. Consequently, there is no such thing as a specific sexual arousal. I suggest that this term should be abandoned, or if that is not feasible, to make it a synonym to enhanced genital blood flow. The notion of a subjective sexual arousal, some kind of vaguely described mental state, seems to lack all explanatory value. I then show that general arousal is an important determinant of sexual motivation, and that the execution of copulatory acts leads to increased general arousal. This increase leads to enhanced sexual motivation, making the activation of sexual reflexes requiring high levels of motivation possible. Examples of such reflexes may be ejaculation in males of many species, and perhaps the psychic state of orgasm in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Agmo
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø, Norway.
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Brown RM, Short JL, Lawrence AJ. Identification of brain nuclei implicated in cocaine-primed reinstatement of conditioned place preference: a behaviour dissociable from sensitization. PLoS One 2010; 5:e15889. [PMID: 21209913 PMCID: PMC3012115 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0015889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2010] [Accepted: 11/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Relapse prevention represents the primary therapeutic challenge in the treatment of drug addiction. As with humans, drug-seeking behaviour can be precipitated in laboratory animals by exposure to a small dose of the drug (prime). The aim of this study was to identify brain nuclei implicated in the cocaine-primed reinstatement of a conditioned place preference (CPP). Thus, a group of mice were conditioned to cocaine, had this place preference extinguished and were then tested for primed reinstatement of the original place preference. There was no correlation between the extent of drug-seeking upon reinstatement and the extent of behavioural sensitization, the extent of original CPP or the extinction profile of mice, suggesting a dissociation of these components of addictive behaviour with a drug-primed reinstatement. Expression of the protein product of the neuronal activity marker c-fos was assessed in a number of brain regions of mice that exhibited reinstatement (R mice) versus those which did not (NR mice). Reinstatement generally conferred greater Fos expression in cortical and limbic structures previously implicated in drug-seeking behaviour, though a number of regions not typically associated with drug-seeking were also activated. In addition, positive correlations were found between neural activation of a number of brain regions and reinstatement behaviour. The most significant result was the activation of the lateral habenula and its positive correlation with reinstatement behaviour. The findings of this study question the relationship between primed reinstatement of a previously extinguished place preference for cocaine and behavioural sensitization. They also implicate activation patterns of discrete brain nuclei as differentiators between reinstating and non-reinstating mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Mary Brown
- Florey Neuroscience Institutes, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Gelez H, Poirier S, Facchinetti P, Allers KA, Wayman C, Bernabé J, Alexandre L, Giuliano F. Neuroanatomical distribution of the melanocortin-4 receptors in male and female rodent brain. J Chem Neuroanat 2010; 40:310-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2010.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2010] [Revised: 09/16/2010] [Accepted: 09/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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