IBN-9512015 Simon, Neal The expression of aggressive behavior by males is regulated through the activity of hormonal and neurochemical systems within the brain. The key messenger molecule in the brain involved in aggressive behaviors appears to be the indolamine, serotonin, which decreases aggression. In addition, a key hormonal component involved in aggression is the androgenic hormone, testosterone, which facilitates behavioral expression. Dr. Simon will define whether and how testosterone modulates the ability of serotonin to decrease aggression. To determine the relationship between these important messenger molecules the ability of testosterone to modulate the behavioral effects of serotonin, the site of testosterone action within the central nervous system, and the ability of this potent androgen to alter serotonin binding characteristics will be investigated. These investigations will produce exciting new information about the neurochemical and neuroendocrinological interactions involved in aggressive behaviors in animals and humans.
