902-The Neural Circuitry of Maternal Aggression

Paper Talk · May 5, 2026 · 19m

The research identifies a specific neural pathway, extending from the posterior amygdala (PA) to the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMHvl), as the primary driver of maternal aggression in female mice. During lactation, this circuit undergoes significant synaptic and cellular plasticity, making the aggression-related neurons more excitable than in non-maternal states. The study demonstrates that oxytocin acts as a crucial modulator, boosting the activity of this pathway to ensure mothers vigorously protect their offspring from potential threats. When pups are removed, a corresponding drop in…