Title:Sex Steroid Hormone Determination of the Maternal Brain: Effects Beyond Reproduction
Volume: 12
Issue: 11
Author(s): C.H. Kinsley, E. Meyer and K.A. Rafferty
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Dendritic spines, hippocampus, medial preoptic area (mPOA), parity, predation, prospective memory, spatial
Memory, prolactin, neurogenesis
Abstract: Herein we discuss the effects of hormones on reproduction, but with a focus on the ripples that emanate from
the main effects. That is, the role of hormones in reproductive events is both well-known and well accepted; less studied
and understood are effects that appear to be ancillary to the primary objectives of the hormonal effects, which support,
complement and extend their primary effects. We present evidence for how the hormonal stimulation of pregnancy
constructs the maternal brain; makes it more efficient; enhances cognition; regulates stress responsiveness; modifies
sensory systems (we discuss mainly olfaction); neurogenesis; and learning. Thus, steroid and other hormones and
neuropeptides restructure the nervous system, particularly of females, to produce and regulate maternal behavior as well
as behaviors and physiological systems that contribute to and support what is arguably the primary function of the
hormones: survival and effective nurturance of the female’s metabolic and genetic investment.