LIN Seminar: “Neural circuits linking social behavior and thermoregulation ” by Adam Nelson (University of Wyoming)
September 7, 2023
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Location
SELE 4289
Calendar
Download iCal FilePlease join us on September 7th, 2013 for a LIN Seminar featuring Dr. Adam Nelson (University of Wyoming)
Host: Joe Zak
Abstract: How the brain links psychological states with physiological states in the periphery is a fundamental question in neuroscience. Regulation of body temperature by central and peripheral circuits is a core homeostatic need that intersects with psychological states. Body temperature is regulated by a combination of autonomic (e.g. brown adipose tissue thermogenesis) and behavioral (e.g., temperature seeking) pathways. These pathways not only prevent hypo and hyperthermia, but can also modify body temperature to regulate cognitive, physical, and affective states. Hypothalamic nuclei integrate thermal sensory cues to activate thermoregulatory responses, and the precise circuits controlling autonomic thermoregulation are increasingly understood. However, far less is known about specific circuits controlling behavioral thermoregulation. To address this gap, we have developed a paradigm to investigate the circuits underlying social thermoregulation in mice. Automated analysis of groups of mice over 48-hr periods show that huddling behaviors are state dependent and associated with distinct changes in body temperature. We identify two genes associated with body temperature and huddling behavior. Ongoing work is investing the central circuits underlying social thermoregulation, including oxytocin neurons of the paraventricular hypothalamus.
Date posted
Feb 21, 2023
Date updated
Aug 29, 2023