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Gale A, Kelly M, Belfield JB, Williams N, Fisher M, Guarraci FA, Stokes JA. Prepubescent Electronic Cigarette Exposure Affects Sexual Motivation and Puberty in Female But Not Male Long-Evans Rats. Nicotine Tob Res 2024:ntad225. [PMID: 38160709 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntad225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A method for delivering vaporized nicotine to animals has been developed using e-cigarette devices. The present experiment was designed to measure the effects of e-cigarette nicotine on pubertal onset and development of reproductive behavior in female and male Long-Evans rats. AIM AND METHODS Rats received daily 10-min sessions of electronic-cigarette vaporized nicotine (5% Virginia Tobacco JUUL Pods) or room air in a whole-body exposure chamber (postnatal day 28-31). Pubertal onset was monitored daily (ie, vaginal opening in females, preputial separation in males). Two weeks later, rats were tested for sexual motivation using the partner-preference paradigm, whereby subjects were given the opportunity to approach either a sexual partner or a same-sex social partner. Four weeks later, partner preference was assessed again, 10 min after rats were re-exposed to their same prepubertal treatment. RESULTS We found that prepubescent electronic-cigarette vaporized nicotine disrupted puberty and sexual motivation in female but not male rats. In vaped females, vaginal opening was delayed and less time was spent with the male stimulus compared to room-air controls. In contrast, no effect of e-cigarette vapor was observed on pubertal onset or on any measures of sexual behavior in male rats. No effects were observed in either female or male rats on the second partner-preference test. CONCLUSIONS Prepubescent vaporized nicotine affected the development of reproductive physiology and behavior in female rats but not in male rats, whereas an additional acute exposure to nicotine vapor had no effect in either female or male adult rats. IMPLICATIONS Given the prevalence of increasingly younger users, more animal research is needed to explore the effects of e-cigarette smoking on multiple developmental systems including reproductive physiology and behavior. This model could be useful in exploring multiple behavioral and physiological endpoints in both sexes. Adjustments to the duration of exposure and control conditions will be necessary for future experiments to best model human use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Gale
- Department of Psychology, Southwestern University, Georgetown, TX, USA
| | - Megan Kelly
- Department of Psychology, Southwestern University, Georgetown, TX, USA
| | | | - Natalie Williams
- Department of Psychology, Southwestern University, Georgetown, TX, USA
| | - Mila Fisher
- Department of Psychology, Southwestern University, Georgetown, TX, USA
| | - Fay A Guarraci
- Department of Psychology, Southwestern University, Georgetown, TX, USA
| | - Jennifer A Stokes
- Department of Kinesiology, Southwestern University, Georgetown, TX, USA
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Ågmo A, Laan E. Sexual incentive motivation, sexual behavior, and general arousal: Do rats and humans tell the same story? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 135:104595. [PMID: 35231490 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Sexual incentive stimuli activate sexual motivation and heighten the level of general arousal. The sexual motive may induce the individual to approach the incentive, and eventually to initiate sexual acts. Both approach and the ensuing copulatory interaction further enhance general arousal. We present data from rodents and humans in support of these assertions. We then suggest that orgasm is experienced when the combined level of excitation surpasses a threshold. In order to analyze the neurobiological bases of sexual motivation, we employ the concept of a central motive state. We then discuss the mechanisms involved in the long- and short-term control of that state as well as those mediating the momentaneous actions of sexual incentive stimuli. This leads to an analysis of the neurobiology behind the interindividual differences in responsivity of the sexual central motive state. Knowledge is still fragmentary, and many contradictory observations have been made. Nevertheless, we conclude that the basic mechanisms of sexual motivation and the role of general arousal are similar in rodents and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Ågmo
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Ellen Laan
- Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Chiang VSC, Park JH. Glutamate in Male and Female Sexual Behavior: Receptors, Transporters, and Steroid Independence. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:589882. [PMID: 33328921 PMCID: PMC7732465 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.589882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The survival of animal species predicates on the success of sexual reproduction. Neurotransmitters play an integral role in the expression of these sexual behaviors in the brain. Here, we review the role of glutamate in sexual behavior in rodents and non-rodent species for both males and females. These encompass the release of glutamate and correlations with glutamate receptor expression during sexual behavior. We then present the effects of glutamate on sexual behavior, as well as the effects of antagonists and agonists on different glutamate transporters and receptors. Following that, we discuss the potential role of glutamate on steroid-independent sexual behavior. Finally, we demonstrate the interaction of glutamate with other neurotransmitters to impact sexual behavior. These sexual behavior studies are crucial in the development of novel treatments of sexual dysfunction and in furthering our understanding of the complexity of sexual diversity. In the past decade, we have witnessed the burgeoning of novel techniques to study and manipulate neuron activity, to decode molecular events at the single-cell level, and to analyze behavioral data. They pose exciting avenues to gain further insight into future sexual behavior research. Taken together, this work conveys the essential role of glutamate in sexual behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vic Shao-Chih Chiang
- Developmental and Brain Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jin Ho Park
- Developmental and Brain Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
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Hegstad J, Huijgens PT, Houwing DJ, Olivier JDA, Heijkoop R, Snoeren EMS. Female rat sexual behavior is unaffected by perinatal fluoxetine exposure. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2020; 120:104796. [PMID: 32711369 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2020.104796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin plays an important role in adult female sexual behavior, however little is known about the influence of serotonin during early development on sexual functioning in adulthood. During early development, serotonin acts as neurotrophic factor, while it functions as a modulatory neurotransmitter in adulthood. The occurrence of serotonin release, could thus have different effects on behavioral outcomes, depending on the developmental period in which serotonin is released. Because serotonin is involved in the development of the HPG axis which is required for puberty establishment, serotonin could also alter expression patterns of for instance the estrogen receptor ɑ (ERɑ). The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of increased serotonin levels during early development on adult female rat sexual behavior during the full behavioral estrus in a seminatural environment. To do so, rats were perinatally exposed with the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) fluoxetine (10 mg/kg FLX) and sexual performance was tested during adulthood. All facets of female sexual behavior between the first and last lordosis (behavioral estrus), and within each copulation bout of the behavioral estrus were analyzed. Besides the length and onset of the behavioral estrus and the sexual behaviors patterns, other social and conflict behavior were also investigated. In addition, we studied the effects of perinatal FLX exposure on ERɑ expression patterns in the medial preoptic nucleus, ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus, medial amygdala, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and the dorsal raphé nucleus. The results showed that perinatal fluoxetine exposure has no effect on adult female sexual behavior. The behavioral estrus of FLX-females had the same length and pattern as CTR-females. In addition, FLX- and CTR-females showed the same amount of paracopulatory behavior and lordosis, both during the full behavioral estrus and the "most active bout". Furthermore, no differences were found in the display of social and conflict behaviors, nor in ERɑ expression patterns in the brain. We conclude that increases in serotonin levels during early development do not have long-term consequences for female sexual behavior in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Hegstad
- Department of Psychology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Patty T Huijgens
- Department of Psychology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Danielle J Houwing
- Department of Psychology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway; Department of Neurobiology, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jocelien D A Olivier
- Department of Neurobiology, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Roy Heijkoop
- Department of Psychology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Eelke M S Snoeren
- Department of Psychology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway; Regional Health Authority of North Norway, Norway.
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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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Heijkoop R, Huijgens PT, Snoeren EM. Assessment of sexual behavior in rats: The potentials and pitfalls. Behav Brain Res 2018; 352:70-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Abstract
Reproductive behavior is the behavior related to the production of offspring and includes all aspects from the establishment of mating systems, courtship, sexual behavior, and parturition to the care of young. In this chapter, I outline the hormonal regulation of the estrous cycle, followed by a description of the neural regulation of female sexual behavior. Ovarian hormones play an important role in the induction of ovulation and behavioral estrus, in which they interact closely with several neurotransmitters and neuropeptides to induce sexual behavior. This chapter discusses the latest research on the role of estrogen, progesterone, serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline, oxytocin, and GABA in female mating behavior. In addition, the most relevant brain areas, such as the preoptic area and the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus, in which these regulations take place, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eelke M S Snoeren
- Department of Psychology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
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Le Moëne O, Snoeren EM. Mate choice could be random in female rats (Rattus norvegicus). Physiol Behav 2017; 184:1-5. [PMID: 29101010 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2017.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Revised: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Female mate choice is often investigated in terms of reproductive success in order to understand how male characteristics contribute to sexual attractiveness. Previous studies have found that females rats prefer mating with their first encounter rather than males visited subsequently, suggesting that the rewarding value of this first encounter is enough to reinforce mating with the first partner. Using a multiple chambers paradigm, we allowed female rats to copulate freely with three males placed each in a different chamber. Then, we switched the males' position, and let the female interact with them freely again within the same session. We tested whether female mate choice was relying rather on a preferred male rat or on a preferred mating location. The results showed that females spent most time with the male in the chamber of 1st entry in the beginning, but as soon as male rats switched chambers, the female rat continued to copulate with the new male in the same chamber of 1st entry, instead of mating with her previously preferred male rat. This suggests that the male preference is an artefact of location preference. Therefore, female mate choice seems to be rather random than the consequence of an individual choice based on male characteristics. This finding, although contradictory with the intuitive feeling that mate choice is a crucial feature in sexual and reproductive behavior, is supported by several recent observations. In the coming years, behavioral neuroscience should bring light to the brain processes at work in random mate choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Le Moëne
- Department of Psychology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Norway
| | - Eelke M Snoeren
- Department of Psychology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Norway.
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10
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Use of an operant paradigm for the study of antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. Behav Pharmacol 2016; 26:697-705. [PMID: 26274043 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
These studies were designed to develop a paradigm for the detection of antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction in female rats. Ovariectomized, Fischer rats were conditioned to nose poke to open a guillotine door to gain access to a sexually active male. To develop the procedure, we examined the acquisition and stability of the response with a 15-s fixed interval, compared rats treated with 10 μg estradiol benzoate and 500 μg progesterone with those that received only estradiol benzoate, and carried out a preliminary analysis of the effects of 5, 10, and 15 mg/kg fluoxetine. We then more fully evaluated the effects of 5 mg/kg fluoxetine. Fluoxetine reduced sexual motivation, as assessed by the number of nose pokes, the number of nose poke episodes, and the latency to approach the male. In addition, changes in the females' sexual motivation were examined before and after ejaculation during the final conditioning trials. The number of nose pokes was reduced and the latency to initiate a new nose poke episode was increased following ejaculation. The robustness of the antidepressant-induced decline in sexual motivation is in marked contrast to the findings with several other animal models for sexual dysfunction and illustrates the usefulness of the operant procedure.
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11
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Guarraci FA, Holifield C, Morales-Valenzuela J, Greene K, Brown J, Lopez R, Crandall C, Gibbs N, Vela R, Delgado MY, Frohardt RJ. Exposure to methylphenidate during peri-adolescence affects endocrine functioning and sexual behavior in female Long–Evans rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2016; 142:36-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 11/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/13/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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12
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Marson L, Giamberardino MA, Costantini R, Czakanski P, Wesselmann U. Animal Models for the Study of Female Sexual Dysfunction. Sex Med Rev 2015; 1:108-122. [PMID: 27784584 DOI: 10.1002/smrj.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Significant progress has been made in elucidating the physiological and pharmacological mechanisms of female sexual function through preclinical animal research. The continued development of animal models is vital for the understanding and treatment of the many diverse disorders that occur in women. AIM To provide an updated review of the experimental models evaluating female sexual function that may be useful for clinical translation. METHODS Review of English written, peer-reviewed literature, primarily from 2000 to 2012, that described studies on female sexual behavior related to motivation, arousal, physiological monitoring of genital function and urogenital pain. MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES Analysis of supporting evidence for the suitability of the animal model to provide measurable indices related to desire, arousal, reward, orgasm, and pelvic pain. RESULTS The development of female animal models has provided important insights in the peripheral and central processes regulating sexual function. Behavioral models of sexual desire, motivation, and reward are well developed. Central arousal and orgasmic responses are less well understood, compared with the physiological changes associated with genital arousal. Models of nociception are useful for replicating symptoms and identifying the neurobiological pathways involved. While in some cases translation to women correlates with the findings in animals, the requirement of circulating hormones for sexual receptivity in rodents and the multifactorial nature of women's sexual function requires better designed studies and careful analysis. The current models have studied sexual dysfunction or pelvic pain in isolation; combining these aspects would help to elucidate interactions of the pathophysiology of pain and sexual dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS Basic research in animals has been vital for understanding the anatomy, neurobiology, and physiological mechanisms underlying sexual function and urogenital pain. These models are important for understanding the etiology of female sexual function and for future development of pharmacological treatments for sexual dysfunctions with or without pain. Marson L, Giamberardino MA, Costantini R, Czakanski P, and Wesselmann U. Animal models for the study of female sexual dysfunction. Sex Med Rev 2013;1:108-122.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Marson
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | | | | | - Peter Czakanski
- University of Alabama at Birmingham-Departments of Anesthesiology and Obstetrics & Gynecology, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Ursula Wesselmann
- University of Alabama at Birmingham-Departments of Anesthesiology and Neurology, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Memos NK, Vela R, Tabone C, Guarraci FA. Endocannabinoid influence on partner preference in female rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2014; 124:380-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2014.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Revised: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Snoeren EM, Veening JG, Olivier B, Oosting RS. Serotonin 1A receptors and sexual behavior in female rats: A review. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2014; 121:43-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2013.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2013] [Revised: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 11/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Snoeren EM, Helander LR, Iversen EE, Ågmo A. On the role of individual differences in female odor and ultrasonic vocalizations for male's choice of partner. Physiol Behav 2014; 132:17-23. [PMID: 24813702 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2014.04.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Revised: 03/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Intrasexual competition for access to a female mate is believed to be unusual in wild male rats, which suggests that female choosiness could be important. Even if competition is unusual, males still have to inevitably approach one partner first for copulation. In females, it has been shown that females spend longer time with one male compared to the others when tested in a multiple partner paradigm. The male mate preference was investigated in this study. In addition, the role of ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) and female odors in the male's initial choice to approach one female instead of another was studied in this experiment. Male rats could choose between three different sexually receptive females. The experiment started with a 15-minute period with inaccessible females followed by a 15-minute period with accessible females in which the males could copulate with the females of his choice. The results showed that male rats spent more time with the female of 1st entry over the second or third females visited. No differences were found in USV subtype patterns emitted by the different females or the number of sniff episodes towards the different female chambers. Thus, the present experiments did not offer any evidence suggesting that USVs or individual differences in female odors play any role in male mate choice. Other factors that were not investigated in this study might be involved in male mate selection, but it should also be considered that mate selection could be random.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eelke M Snoeren
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Lars R Helander
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Eric E Iversen
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Anders Ågmo
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
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Sales JM, Smearman EL, Brody GH, Milhausen R, Philibert RA, Diclemente RJ. Factors associated with sexual arousal, sexual sensation seeking and sexual satisfaction among female African American adolescents. Sex Health 2014; 10:512-21. [PMID: 24262218 DOI: 10.1071/sh13005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2013] [Accepted: 08/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexuality-related constructs, such as sexual arousal, sexual sensation seeking (SSS) and sexual satisfaction, have been related to sexual behaviours that place one at risk of adverse consequences, such as sexually transmissible infections, HIV and unintended pregnancy. The biopsychosocial model posits an array of factors, ranging from social environmental factors to biological and psychological predispositions, that may be associated with these sexuality constructs in adolescents. METHODS Female African Americans aged 14-20 years were recruited from reproductive health clinics for an HIV intervention. Baseline survey and follow-up DNA data (n=304) were used to assess biological, psychological and social environmental associations with the sexuality constructs of arousal, SSS and sexual satisfaction. RESULTS Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that a higher depressive symptom rating was associated with higher arousability, whereas short serotonin transporter gene allele(s) status was associated with lower arousability. Impulsivity and perceived peer norms supportive of unsafe sexual behaviours were associated with increased SSS, whereas short serotonin transporter gene allele(s) status was associated with lower SSS. Higher social support was associated with higher levels of sexual satisfaction, whereas short serotonin transporter gene allele(s) status was associated with lower satisfaction. The sexuality constructs were also significantly related to the number of sex partners, the frequency of vaginal sex and the number of unprotected vaginal sex acts in the past 6 months. CONCLUSIONS The findings emphasise the importance of understanding biopsychosocial factors, including the role of serotonin as an indicator of natural variations in sexual inclination and behaviours, that influence sexuality constructs, which, in turn, are associated with sexual behaviours, to allow further refinement of sexual health clinical services and programs and promote the development of healthy sexuality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Sales
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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Developmental fluoxetine exposure facilitates sexual behavior in female offspring. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:123-33. [PMID: 23900642 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3215-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE A growing number of infants are being exposed to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medications during the perinatal period. SSRIs target the serotoninergic system and are a popular treatment for maternal mood disorders. Serotonin itself plays a key role in the sexual differentiation through its role in the development of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, and previous research has shown that developmental SSRI exposure has an effect on sexual behavior in male offspring. OBJECTIVES Our aim was to determine the role of developmental exposure to a popular SSRI medication, fluoxetine, on sexual differentiation of the brain and behavior in female offspring using a rodent model of maternal adversity. METHODS Stressed and non-stressed Sprague-Dawley rat dams were chronically treated with either fluoxetine (5 mg/kg/day) or vehicle beginning on postnatal day 1. Four groups of female offspring were used: (1) control + vehicle, (2) control + fluoxetine, (3) prenatal stress + vehicle, and (4) prenatal stress + fluoxetine. RESULTS Primary results show that in adult female offspring, developmental fluoxetine exposure facilitates proceptive and receptive behaviors with a significant increase in the number of proceptive behaviors, a significant increase in the lordosis quotient, and a significant decrease in the rejection quotient. CONCLUSIONS This research contributes in the understanding of the long-term impact developmental fluoxetine exposure on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) system in adult female offspring.
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Uphouse L. Pharmacology of serotonin and female sexual behavior. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2013; 121:31-42. [PMID: 24239784 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2013.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2013] [Revised: 11/03/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In this review, first a historical perspective of serotonin's (5-HT) involvement in female sexual behavior is presented. Then an overview of studies implicating 5-HT is presented. The effect of drugs that increase or decrease CNS levels of 5-HT is reviewed. Evidence is presented that drugs which increase 5-HT have negative effects on female sexual behavior while a decrease in 5-HT is associated with facilitation of sexual behavior. Studies with compounds that act on 5-HT₁, 5-HT₂ or 5-HT₃ receptors are discussed. Most evidence indicates that 5-HT₁A receptor agonists inhibit sexual behavior while 5-HT₂ or 5-HT₃ receptors may exert a positive influence. There is substantial evidence to support a role for 5-HT in the modulation of female consummatory sexual behavior, but studies on the role of 5-HT in other elements of female sexual behavior (e.g. desire, motivation, sexual appetite) are few. Future studies should be directed at determining if these additional components of female sexual behavior are also modulated by 5-HT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda Uphouse
- Department of Biology, Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX 76204, United States.
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Ventura-Aquino E, Fernández-Guasti A. The Antidepressants Fluoxetine and Bupropion Differentially Affect Proceptive Behavior in the Naturally Cycling Female Rat. J Sex Med 2013; 10:2679-87. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Thibodeau RB, Ornelas LC, Romero J, Memos N, Scheible M, Avila A, Schumacher A, Navarro A, Zimmermann K, Cuenod BA, Frohardt RJ, Guarraci FA. Acute withdrawal but not long-term withdrawal from methamphetamine affects sexual behavior in female rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2013; 103:701-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2012.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2012] [Revised: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 12/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Miryala CSJ, Hiegel C, Uphouse L. Sprague-Dawley and Fischer female rats differ in acute effects of fluoxetine on sexual behavior. J Sex Med 2012; 10:350-61. [PMID: 23110651 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02981.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), fluoxetine, leads to sexual dysfunction in a substantial proportion of women. In studies with the Fischer inbred rat, the 5-HT(1A) receptor has been implicated in this sexual dysfunction. Whether this association with 5-HT(1A) receptors holds for other rat strains is not known. AIM The effects of acute fluoxetine on sexual behavior in two strains of rats that differ in their response to a 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist were examined. Whether the strain difference is comparable in naturally cycling and hormonally primed, ovariectomized rats was determined. METHODS Proestrous rats and ovariectomized rats, hormonally primed with estradiol benzoate and progesterone, were treated with varying doses of fluoxetine. Sexual behavior was examined before and after treatment with the SSRI. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Lordosis to mount ratios, lordosis quality, and proceptive behaviors were quantified. Sprague-Dawley and Fischer females were compared on each of these measures. The IC(50) for inhibition of lordosis behavior was determined. RESULTS In both the intact and the hormonally primed, ovariectomized model, Sprague-Dawley females were less sensitive to the effects of fluoxetine on sexual behavior. In both groups, fluoxetine showed dose dependency in behavioral inhibition, but a higher dose was required for Sprague-Dawley than for Fischer females. Naturally cycling, proestrous rats required a higher dose of fluoxetine than hormonally primed ovariectomized rats to produce significant inhibition of sexual behavior. Thus, the strain difference in the response to fluoxetine does not parallel strain differences in the response to a 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist. CONCLUSIONS Acute treatment with fluoxetine inhibits lordosis behavior in both Fischer and Sprague-Dawley females and the strain difference cannot be explained by reported strain differences in the response to a 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist. Fluoxetine's inhibition of female rat sexual behavior may involve effects of the SSRI in addition to activation of the 5-HT(1A) receptor.
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Current World Literature. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2012; 24:265-72. [DOI: 10.1097/gco.0b013e3283564f02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Kaspersen H, Agmo A. Paroxetine-induced reduction of sexual incentive motivation in female rats is not modified by 5-HT1B or 5-HT2C antagonists. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2012; 220:269-80. [PMID: 21909633 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-011-2475-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2011] [Accepted: 08/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Clinical data show that paroxetine causes sexual dysfunction in a substantial proportion of women taking this compound. OBJECTIVES This work was conducted to determine whether chronic paroxetine reduces sexual incentive motivation in female rats and whether this compound can modify any aspect of paced mating. The role of the 5-HT(1B) and 5-HT(2C) receptors in any potential effects was also evaluated. METHODS Ovariectomized female rats were implanted with osmotic minipumps releasing 10 mg/kg per day of paroxetine or vehicle for 28 days. Tests for sexual incentive motivation and paced mating were performed just before implantation and at regular intervals thereafter. The females were primed with estradiol benzoate (25 μg/rat) and progesterone (1 mg/rat) before each of these tests. On days 25-27 of treatment, the females were injected with the 5-HT(1B) antagonist GR125,743 (5 mg/kg), the 5-HT(2C) antagonist SB206,553 (5 mg/kg) and vehicle in counterbalanced order. Preinjection time was 30 min. RESULTS Paroxetine reduced sexual incentive motivation on day 20 of treatment without affecting any aspect of paced mating. None of the antagonists modified the inhibitory effect of paroxetine on sexual incentive motivation. In the group chronically treated with vehicle, SB206,553 reduced proceptive behaviors in the paced mating test. No other effect was obtained. CONCLUSION The effects of paroxetine seen in female rats are similar to those observed in women, suggesting that disturbances of sexual incentive motivation in rats are predictive of sexual dysfunction in women. The 5-HT(1B) and 5-HT(2C) receptors do not seem to be of any importance for paroxetine's inhibitory effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helge Kaspersen
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, 9037, Tromsø, Norway
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Kiser D, SteemerS B, Branchi I, Homberg JR. The reciprocal interaction between serotonin and social behaviour. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2012; 36:786-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2011.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2011] [Revised: 11/23/2011] [Accepted: 12/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Prins J, Olivier B, Korte SM. Triple reuptake inhibitors for treating subtypes of major depressive disorder: the monoamine hypothesis revisited. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2011; 20:1107-30. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2011.594039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Snoeren EM, Bovens A, Refsgaard LK, Westphal KG, Waldinger MD, Olivier B, Oosting RS. Combination of Testosterone and Vardenafil Increases Female Sexual Functioning in Sub‐Primed Rats. J Sex Med 2011; 8:989-1001. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.02177.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Fabre LF, Brown CS, Smith LC, Derogatis LR. Gepirone-ER treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) associated with depression in women. J Sex Med 2011; 8:1411-9. [PMID: 21324094 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02216.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is currently no Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved treatment for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). FDA approval of products utilizing testosterone has been delayed due to possible safety concerns. Flibanserin, a 5-HT(1A) agonist, 5-HT(2) antagonist, and gepirone-ER, a 5-HT(1A) agonist, have been shown to have activity in treatment of HSDD. However, more recently, the FDA issued a non-approval letter for flibanserin. AIM To study the effect of gepirone-ER on HSDD in women with major depressive disorder (MDD). METHODS At baseline and post-treatment visits, a trained psychiatrist made diagnoses of HSDD based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) criteria. Subjects meeting criteria for HSDD were followed to observe the effect of gepirone-ER (20-80 mg/day), comparator antidepressants (fluoxetine, 20-40 mg/day or paroxetine, 10-40 mg/day), or placebo in reversing DSM-IV diagnosis. A subpopulation of women with Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) entry scores of 18 or less was evaluated. Adverse events (AEs) of sexual dysfunction were also collected. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Number (%) of patients who no longer met criteria for HSDD (percent resolved). RESULTS Eight hundred seventy-five women (18-64 years of age, average 38 years old, ∼80% premenopausal) entered three studies; 668 (72.5%) completed. Only 161 (18.4%) met DSM-IV criteria for HSDD. Cumulatively, 63% of gepirone-ER-treated patients reversed their diagnosis of HSDD compared to 40% of placebo-treated patients at end point (8 weeks) (P = 0.007). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor-treated patients were not different from placebo. Significant results for gepirone-ER occurred by week 2 (P = 0.0001). Patients who were mildly depressed (HAMD scores of 18 or less) also improved at week 2 (P = 0.01) and week 8 (P = 0.07). Sexual dysfunction AEs were significantly less in gepirone-ER-treated patients than placebo (P = 0.013). CONCLUSIONS Gepirone-ER may have efficacy in the treatment of HSDD among depressed and possibly nondepressed women. Efficacy occurs by week 2, and does not seem to be purely an antidepressant effect.
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