Factors modulating preferences of female house mice for males differing in t-complex genotype: role of t-complex genotype, genetic background, and estrous condition of females.
The present study investigates factors mediating odor and social preferences in female house mice (Muc domesticus) based on the t-complex genotype of males. Previous studies in this laboratory showed that females prefer the odors of wild-type (+/+) males over those that carry lethal genes (+/t). The purpose of this study was to determine the genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors that regulate these preferences. The variables examined include t-complex genotype, genetic background, estrous condition of test females (+/+ or +/t), and genotype of the test female's parents. Results indicate that female preferences for +/+ males are dependent upon the t-complex genotype and estrous condition of test females. Only +/t females in estrus showed preferences for +/+ males. Estrous cycle condition effects were seen in both wild (+/+w5) and inbred (129 +/tw5)females. Homozygous females (+/+) and diestrous females of both genotypes did not demonstrate preferences for either +/+ or +/t males.
Williams
J R
JR
Institute of Animal Behavior, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey 07102.
Lenington
S
S
D000818:Animals; D004971:Estrus / Q000235:genetics*; D005260:Female; D005838:Genotype; D006239:Haplotypes; D047908:Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D008869:Microtubule-Associated Proteins; D008957:Models, Genetic; D009687:Nuclear Proteins / Q000235:genetics*; D012726:Sexual Behavior, Animal; D012931:Social Environment; D044767:Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases; D056427:t-Complex Genome Region
D047908:Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins; D008869:Microtubule-Associated Proteins; D009687:Nuclear Proteins; C116196:PPP1R11 protein, human; D044767:Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases