Collaborative Research: Neurogenetics of Social Behavior

Emory University, Atlanta GA

Investigators

Abstract

The goal of this project is to develop approaches to manipulate gene function in non-traditional animal models to understand the role of the vasopressin receptor gene in regulating social behavior. Silencing or disrupting genes in mice has also helped to understand how certain genes influence behaviors. However, mice are not ideal for studying many aspects of behaviors, including social behaviors. Comparative biology uses a wide variety of species with particular characteristics that make them ideal for studying the particular questions. For example, prairie voles are a monogamous rodent species that have been used to understand how molecules act within certain brain circuits to promote social bonding. Hamsters are more solitary and display robust territorial behavior, and have been used to investigate the roles of brain molecules in social communication. However, the utility of these non-traditional species for understanding the roles of specific genes in controlling behavior has been limited because of the inability to manipulate genes. The goal of this project is to use parallel approaches in hamsters and prairie voles to silence the vasopressin receptor gene using two different approaches. One approach will effectively silence vasopressin receptor gene expression, while the other will introduce a mutation in the gene, making it ineffective. By manipulating the expression of this gene, more insights into its role in regulating social behaviors, including social bonding and territorial behaviors will be achieved. Furthermore, the development of these approaches should be applicable to a wide range of mammalian species that are useful for studying different questions. The development of these approaches in hamsters and prairie voles will be transformative for comparative behavioral neuroscience. This project will engage students, ranging from high school to graduate school, in comparative studies addressing the underlying neurogenetics of social behavior. Also, partnerships with Zoo Atlanta will be instrumental in developing new research and educational exhibits that will serve to educate the public on the neurogenetics of social behavior.