GnRH Neurons and Reproductive Behavior

Abstract

Reproductive physiology must be coordinated with mating behavior in order to ensure reproductive success. Along with its key role in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, the GnRH molecule is involved in the control of reproductive behavior. Nevertheless, while behavioral effects of GnRH have been known for thirty years, the mechanisms by which the decapeptide exerts these effects are still almost entirely unknown. This chapter will discuss the literature on effects of GnRH on sexual behavior in male and female animals. In addition, sex behavior itself has effects on GnRH cells. Therefore, a “feedback loop” between reproductive physiology and behavior, mediated by GnRH, may be a mechanism by which these complex processes are synchronized to ensure the propagation of sexually reproducing species.