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Oxytocin and vasopressin increase male-directed threats and vocalizations in female macaques

Yaoguang Jiang1, Michael L Platt2,3,4

  • 1Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA. jiangyaoguang@gmail.com.

Scientific Reports
|December 22, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Intranasal oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) differently affect female macaque social behavior compared to males. These neuropeptides can promote or inhibit aggression based on sex and social context.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroendocrinology
  • Primate Social Behavior
  • Behavioral Neuroscience

Background:

  • Intranasal oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) are neuropeptides known to influence social behaviors.
  • Previous studies in male macaques indicated OT and AVP relax social interactions and alter hierarchies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of intranasal OT and AVP administration on female macaque social behaviors.
  • To compare the modulatory effects of OT and AVP in females versus males.

Main Methods:

  • Administration of intranasal OT and AVP to female macaque monkeys.
  • Observation and analysis of social interactions, including threatening and vocalization behaviors.
  • Assessment of social status and inter- and intra-sexual interactions.

Main Results:

  • Intranasal OT and AVP increased threatening and vocalization behaviors in females during encounters with males, enhancing their social status.
  • While promoting confrontational intersexual encounters, OT and AVP relaxed interactions between females.
  • Treatment of one female modulated the behavior of her non-treated partner, similar to findings in males.

Conclusions:

  • OT and AVP exhibit sex- and context-dependent effects on aggression in macaques, capable of both inhibition and promotion.
  • Findings highlight the need for a nuanced understanding of OT and AVP functions across sexes.
  • Further research is warranted for potential therapeutic applications in human social disorders.

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