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Abstract
The present study investigated 1) the importance of the aromatization process during
the perinatal period for the development of the sexually dimorphic nucleus in the
preoptic area of the hypothalamus (SDN-POA) of male rats, and 2) the relationship
between SDN-POA volume and parameters of masculinization in male rats that were treated
perinatally with the aromatase-inhibitor ATD. Males were treated with ATD either prenatally
or pre- and neonatally, or with the vehicle. Masculine sexual behavior and partner
preference were investigated in adulthood. Thereafter, animals were sacrificed and
SDN-POA volume was measured. The SDN-POA volume was reduced in both the prenatally
and the pre- and neonatally treated group, with a larger reduction in the latter than
in the former group. Combined pre- and neonatal ATD treatment resulted in reduced
frequency of mounts, intromissions, and ejaculations, as well as a reduced preference
for a female over a male. The SDN-POA size was significantly and positively correlated
with frequency of masculine sexual behavior, as well as preference for a female over
a male.