Previous research has shown that female rodents have higher rates of alcohol consumption than males, but the mechanisms underlying these behavioral differences have yet to be uncovered. Here, we used the Four Core Genotype mouse model along with Intermittent Access to evaluate the effects of gonadal hormones and sex chromosomes on drinking habits. Four Core Genotype mice allow us to study the effects of genetic sex separately from gonadal hormones. Intermittent access is a method of giving mice alcohol for 24 hours at a time, then having them abstain for the next 24 hours to increase rates of alcohol consumption. Our research, along with previous research, shows that mice with ovaries (Sry-) have higher rates of alcohol consumption than mice with testes (Sry+). Our study supports that there is an interaction between sex chromosomes and hormones that has an important role in the addictive behaviors across sex.
Author(s): Ezra Eccles, Biological Physics and Premedical Studies Major
D’Erick Underwood, Psychology Major
Advisor(s): Anna Radke, Department of Psychology
You must be logged in to post a comment.