Null mutation of the prolactin receptor gene produces a defect in maternal behavior

We have studied pup-directed maternal behavior in mice carrying a germ line null mutation of the PRL receptor (PRLR) gene. Homozygous mutant and heterozygous mutant nulliparous females show a deficiency in pup-induced maternal behavior. Moreover, primiparous heterozygous females exhibit a profound d...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inEndocrinology (Philadelphia) Vol. 139; no. 10; pp. 4102 - 4107
Main Authors Lucas, B K, Ormandy, C J, Binart, N, Bridges, R S, Kelly, P A
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.10.1998
Subjects
Animals
Cognition
Female
gamma-Aminobutyric Acid - secretion
Maternal Behavior
Maze Learning
Mice
Mutation
Pregnancy
Receptors, Prolactin - genetics
Receptors, Prolactin - physiology
Smell
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Summary:We have studied pup-directed maternal behavior in mice carrying a germ line null mutation of the PRL receptor (PRLR) gene. Homozygous mutant and heterozygous mutant nulliparous females show a deficiency in pup-induced maternal behavior. Moreover, primiparous heterozygous females exhibit a profound deficit in maternal care when challenged with foster pups. Morris maze studies revealed normal configural learning in the heterozygous and homozygous animals. Eating, locomotor activity, sexual behavior, and exploration (all processes regulated by the hypothalamus) are normal in PRLR mutant mice. Olfactory function was tested in an aversive conditioning paradigm, results indicating that heterozygous and homozygous PRLR mutant mice are not anosmic. These studies clearly establish the PRLR as a regulator of maternal behavior.
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ISSN:0013-7227
1945-7170
DOI:10.1210/en.139.10.4102