Modular genetic control of innate behaviors |
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| Authors: | Xiaohong Xu |
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| Institution: | Institute of Neuroscience, Shanghai Institute of Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, P. R. China |
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| Abstract: | Many complex behaviors are genetically hardwired. Based on previous findings on genetic control of mating and other behaviors in invertebrate and mammalian systems, I suggest that genetic control of complex behaviors is modular: first, dedicated genes specify different behavioral patterns; secondly, separable genetic networks govern distinct behavioral components. I speculate that modular genetic encoding of complex behaviors may in part reflect modularity in brain development and function. Editor's suggested further reading in BioEssays From songs to synapses: Molecular mechanisms of birdsong memory Abstract |
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| Keywords: | behavioral genetics evolution innate behaviors male copulation modular neuroscience steroid hormone |
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