? The focus of this research proposal is to examine the role of GABA in adolescent anabolic steroid induced aggression. The GABAergic neural system is implicated in the control of aggression yet the role of GABA neurotransmission in this behavior is unclear. Exposure to AAS has been shown to increase aggression in hamsters and it is possible that exposure during adolescence alters the normal development of the GABA system. The GABAergic neural system is of particular interest in this paradigm because it has been shown that steroids directly interact with GABAA receptors in brain. Recent data shows that adolescent AAS exposure results in alterations in GAD65-ir in primary aggression areas in hamster brain and correlates with increased aggression. The goals of the experiments outlined in this proposal are 1) to manipulate adolescent AAS-induced aggression by pharmacologically targeting the GABAA receptor and 2) to examine how adolescent AAS exposure can alter the activity and/or expression of the GABA system to provide a more complete model of the circuitry involved in AAS-induced aggression. These studies will provide a better understanding of GABA's role in the neural and behavioral effects of adolescent steroid abuse. ? ? ? ?

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
5F31DA018033-02
Application #
7091572
Study Section
Human Development Research Subcommittee (NIDA)
Program Officer
Babecki, Beth
Project Start
2004-03-22
Project End
2007-03-21
Budget Start
2005-03-22
Budget End
2006-03-21
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2005
Total Cost
$23,522
Indirect Cost
Name
Northeastern University
Department
Psychology
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
001423631
City
Boston
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02115