The mechanisms controlling successful reproduction in hamsters mediate a complex interplay of physiological responses and behavior. Sexual stimulation is necessary for the induction of the neuroendocrine reflex that prepares the uterus for the implantation of the fertilized ova, the progestational state, and for the cooperative mating behavior of the female with the male. This is an investigation of the key brain regions mediating this neuroendocrine reflex and the mechanism by which the female uses stimulation from the male to modify her behavior during mating. An anterograde transneuronal viral tracing study from the vaginocervical area to the brain will highlight brain regions that can be activated by intromissive stimulation from the male. To test the critical involvement of selected individual sites, a lesion study that incorporates a compact cascade of tests with possible outcomes and predetermined interpretations will evaluate each selected site for its role in the induction of the progestational state and in the reinforcing effects of mating. This approach will integrate mating stimuli with the neural control of behavior and physiological responses relevant to reproduction.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
1F31MH064289-01
Application #
6405378
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-IFCN-2 (01))
Program Officer
Goldschmidts, Walter L
Project Start
2001-07-06
Project End
Budget Start
2001-07-06
Budget End
2002-07-05
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2001
Total Cost
$23,748
Indirect Cost
Name
Purdue University
Department
Psychology
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
072051394
City
West Lafayette
State
IN
Country
United States
Zip Code
47907
Martin-Alguacil, Nieves; Schober, Justine M; Sengelaub, Dale R et al. (2008) Clitoral sexual arousal: neuronal tracing study from the clitoris through the spinal tracts. J Urol 180:1241-8
Shelley, Deborah N; Meisel, Robert L (2005) The effects of mating stimulation on c-Fos immunoreactivity in the female hamster medial amygdala are region and context dependent. Horm Behav 47:212-22