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Altered sexual and social behaviors in trp2 mutant mice
Bradley G Leypold1, C Ron Yu, Trese Leinders-Zufall
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA.
Abstract:
We have used gene targeting to generate mice with a homozygous deficiency in trp2, a cation channel expressed in the vomeronasal organ (VNO). Trp2 mutant animals reveal a striking reduction in the electrophysiological response to pheromones in the VNO, suggesting that trp2 plays a central role in mediating the pheromone response. These mutants therefore afford the opportunity to examine the role of the VNO in the generation of innate sexual and social behaviors in mice. Trp2 mutant males and nursing females are docile and fail to initiate aggressive attacks on intruder males. Male-female sexual behavior appears normal, but trp2 mutant males also vigorously mount other males. These results suggest that the cation channel trp2 is required in the VNO to detect male-specific pheromones that elicit aggressive behaviors and dictate the choice of sexual partners.
Insights
Mice lacking the trp2 cation channel in the vomeronasal organ (VNO) show reduced responses to pheromones. This deficiency impairs aggressive behaviors and alters sexual partner preference in male mice.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Animal Behavior
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The vomeronasal organ (VNO) is crucial for detecting pheromones, which influence social and sexual behaviors in mice.
- Cation channels, such as trp2, are implicated in sensory transduction within the VNO.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the trp2 cation channel in VNO function and its impact on mouse behavior.
- To determine if trp2 is essential for pheromone detection and the subsequent behavioral responses.
Main Methods:
- Gene targeting was used to create mice with a homozygous deficiency in the trp2 gene.
- Electrophysiological recordings were performed on the VNO of wild-type and trp2 mutant mice.
- Behavioral assays were conducted to assess aggression and sexual behavior in trp2 mutant mice.
Main Results:
- Trp2 mutant mice exhibited a significant reduction in electrophysiological responses to pheromones in the VNO.
- Trp2 mutant males and nursing females displayed reduced docility and failed to initiate aggressive attacks.
- While male-female sexual behavior was normal, trp2 mutant males showed increased mounting of other males.
Conclusions:
- The cation channel trp2 plays a critical role in the VNO's ability to detect pheromones.
- Trp2 is essential for mediating innate aggressive behaviors and influencing sexual partner choice in mice.
- These findings highlight trp2's importance in processing social cues via the VNO.