RT Journal Article ID 3fabf6f725d00b08 A1 Dudley, Carol A. A1 Rajendren, Gopalan A1 Moss, Robert L. T1 Signal Processing in the Vomeronasal System: Modulation of Sexual Behavior in the Female Rat JF Critical Reviews™ in Neurobiology JO CRN YR 1996 FD 1996-12-01 VO 10 IS 3-4 SP 265 OP 290 K1 vomeronasal organ K1 pheromone K1 gonadotropin hormone releasing hormone K1 accessory olfactory bulb K1 ventromedial hypothalamus K1 lordosis AB Chemosensory cues detected by the vomeronasal (VN) organ modulate a variety of social interactions in many species. In particular, activation of the VN system by pheromones regulates sexual behavior in the rodent. Although the exact nature of stimulus access to the organ is not clearly defined, the neuroanatomical pathway connecting the VN organ to hypothalamic centers controlling reproductive function is well established and relatively straightforward. Electrophysiological techniques have provided insight into the signal transduction process throughout the VN system. Combining behavioral studies with immunocytochemical detection of immediate early genes and neuropeptides reveals that gonadotropin hormone releasing hormone (GnRH)-containing neurons are specifically activated by stimulation of the VN organ. Furthermore, some of the activated GnRH neurons project to the ventromedial hypothalamus where they are hypothesized to induce sexual responsiveness. Early anecdotal evidence of an influence of the VN organ on human reproductive events has been substantiated by more recent anatomical, behavioral, and electrophysiological studies. Thus, further deciphering of the signal transduction process within the VN system of the rodent may yield unique insights into behaviors associated with human reproduction. PB Begell House LK https://www.dl.begellhouse.com/journals/7b004699754c9fe6,24015b0723d06c98,3fabf6f725d00b08.html