One of the fundamental problems in neuroscience is understanding the multifaceted relationship between hormones and behavior. We know that hormone-regulated behaviors involve the interactions between hormone-sensitive neural structures, and the sensory and motor systems. However, it is still not clear how the central nervous system integrates environmental stimuli impinging upon sensory receptors with an individual's physiological milieu and then outputs this information into appropriate behavioral responses. Dr. Edwards' research program is aimed at providing answers to this important problem. Using a functional neuroanatomical approach in combination with an extensive series of behavioral tests, he will define the neural pathways through which hormonal, chemosensory, and somatosensory information are integrated towards the production of behavior. Dr. Edwards will concentrate on the brain regions that are connected to the preoptic area, a nuclei important for androgen-dependent behaviors. He will evaluate the types of behavioral changes that result from the manipulation of these specific brain structures and their afferent and efferent pathways. This work will lead to a coherent picture of the critical neural circuits involved in the expression of behavior.
