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Research ProjectsBiogenic amines and motivational behavior Biogenic amines such as serotonin, dopamine and octopamine can modulate an animal's motivational state and can thus influence how an animal will respond in any given situation. For example, we have found that the escape behaviors of both male and female crickets can be inhibited during mating. Similarly, male escape behaviors are altered in a rank-specific way following a fight. We have been using high pressure liquid chromatography to monitor changes in aminergic activity in male crickets during both mating and fighting. Our findings will provide important insight into the role these amines may play in an animal's motivational state, its expression of specific behaviors, and its social status. |
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