FUNCTIONS OF THE STEROID-RESPONSIVE NEURAL-NETWORK IN THE CONTROL OF MALE HAMSTER SEXUAL-BEHAVIOR

Gonadal steroid receptor-containing neurons in the brain ave densely i nterconnected to form a steroid-responsive neural network within the l imbic system. The possible functions of such a network include redunda ncy, signal amplification, stability, and selective filtering of hormo nal cues to control steroid-dependent aspects of neuroendocrine secret ion and behavior. Recently, the neural circuitry underlying male sexua l behavior in the Syrian hamster has been used as a model for testing certain of these concepts. These studies provide functional evidence t o support the network properties of gonadal steroid-responsive neurons in controlling hormone-dependent sexual behavior. (C) 1996, Elsevier Science Inc.