The effects of progesterone on sexual behavior in male green anole lizards (Anolis carolinensis).
It is well known that androgen-dependent sexual behaviors in male mammals and birds are inhibited by exogenous progesterone (P). However, recent research on male whiptail lizards (Cnemidophorus inornatus) indicates that P can stimulate sexual and copulatory behavior. We report here both antiandrogenic and synandrogenic actions of P on sexual behavior in males of another reptile, the green anole lizard (Anolis carolinensis). Earlier reports on birds and mammals are reviewed and discussed in relation to a possible physiological role of P in influencing sexual behavior in male vertebrates.
Young
L J
LJ
Institute of Reproductive Biology, University of Texas, Austin 78712.
Greenberg
N
N
Crews
D
D
D000818:Animals; D001070:Appetitive Behavior / Q000187:drug effects; D003307:Copulation / Q000187:drug effects; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004343:Drug Implants; D008116:Lizards; D008297:Male; D011374:Progesterone / Q000494:pharmacology*; D012726:Sexual Behavior, Animal / Q000187:drug effects*; D012931:Social Environment; D013739:Testosterone / Q000494:pharmacology
D004343:Drug Implants; D013739:Testosterone; D011374:Progesterone