PSYC 327 Lecture Notes - Lecture 11: Chromosome, Quantitative Trait Locus, Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Document Summary
Vasopressin (and oxytocin- closely related hormones) and sociality in voles. Play central role in reproduction and parental care in mammals. Neurohormones (can also act as neurotransmitters) each 9 amino acids long. Produced in hypothalamus and transported to other brains regions or projected to the pituitary for release. Studies show us a statistical difference when given oxytocin. Can also show through neuroimaging- seem to be working on social stimuli. Recognition that every species is different- what it does in prairie vole will be completely different to another species of vole. Find out what the receptors are in the brain- haven"t been done in precise way. 90% of prairie voles spend their adult lives with one partner. High levels of vasopressin in monogamous male voles. Knew vasopressin is important for kidney function and water retention- big surprise in role for pair bonding and relationships. Pituitary gland- hormone secreting gland- also called master gland- regulates other glands.
