Life without sex and reproduction would not only be less interesting, it would be impossible. Yet, despite its importance for the existence of the species, unlike feeding, it is not actually necessary for the survival of the individual. Still, nature developed “ways” to ensure animals do engage in sex, such as making it highly rewarding. But on the other hand, sexual behaviour must also be tightly controlled, as sex can put animals at risk by placing them in a defenseless position. Given this complicated balance of benefits and risks, how does the brain ensure that animals engage in safe and productive sexual behaviour?
Read more about our research HERE
Main Interest
How the brain controls key processes in sexual behaviour
Methods
- Electrophysiology
- Optogenetics
- Anatomy
- Behaviour
Animal model & Brain regions
– Mus musculus
- Medial hypothalamus
- Ventral tegmental area
- Ventral premammillary nucleus
- Periaqueductal gray
AFFILIATION
Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown
Avenida Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
T (+351) 210 480 200
FUNDING
