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Pathways of sexual desire
1Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, Canada.
The Journal of Sexual Medicine
|May 21, 2009
Summary
Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) involves imbalances in brain excitation and inhibition systems. Targeting dopamine pathways and modulating endocannabinoid and serotonin systems may offer effective treatments for HSDD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Human Sexuality
Background:
- Sexual desire is regulated by complex brain systems governing excitation and inhibition.
- Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) can arise from insufficient sexual excitation, excessive inhibition, or a combination of both.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the neurochemical and neuroanatomical systems underlying sexual excitation and inhibition.
- To elucidate the roles of these systems in normal and hypoactive sexual expressions.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review of human and animal studies.
- Development of a theoretical framework for HSDD manifestation and treatment.
Main Results:
- The core excitatory system involves brain dopamine pathways (hypothalamic and mesolimbic), supported by melanocortins, oxytocin, and norepinephrine.
- Sexual inhibition is associated with activation of brain opioid, endocannabinoid, and serotonin systems, which can suppress excitatory pathways.
Conclusions:
- Pharmacological strategies targeting hypothalamic dopamine activation or inhibiting endocannabinoid/serotonin activity show promise for treating HSDD.
- Understanding these mechanisms facilitates a rational approach to developing new HSDD therapeutics.
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