American Association for the Advancement of Science honors FSU Neuroscience professor Dr. Elaine Hull in recognition of her research on the neuroendocrine control of male rat sexual behavior

Dr. Hull is recognized, being named a fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, for her research investigating the neuroendocrine control of male rat sexual behavior. Her studies have shown that dopamine is released in the medial preoptic area (MPOA) as soon as a male rat encounters a receptive female; release is further increased during copulation. Stimulation of dopamine receptors in the MPOA controls genital reflexes and sexual motivation. Glutamate is also released there and may control ejaculation. This brain area is essential for male sexual behavior in all vertebrate species that have been studied, from fish through humans.