One research project examines the role of the endocrine system, and particularly lactogenic molecules, in the induction of parental behavior in rodents.
Related studies examine the access of proteins into the brain at the level of the brain-CSF barrier.
A second area of research explores the regulation of endogenous opioid release in the central nervous system and their regulation within the context of the changing endocrine and behavioral milieus of pregnancy and parturition. A third area of study examines the phenomenon of neuroplasticity in the adult mammal. Specific experiments study the effects of reproductive experience in females on endocrine function, neuropeptide regulation and behavior. The combination of physiological, anatomical, and behavioral approaches used are designed to help elucidate basic neurobiological processes underlying mammalian brain function and to increase our understanding of the biological bases of reproductive physiology and behavior. Central prolactin infusions stimulate maternal behavior in steroid-treated, nulliparous female rats.