Rodent ultrasonic vocalizations, reward and striatal function

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The main aim of this proposal is to increase our understanding of brain activity related to rewarding events and their effects on behaviour. We know that different parts of the brain are specialized for different functions, and the main areas of the brain that are involved in the processing of reward have been identified. Certain neurotransmitters (signalling molecules) have been shown to be important players in this reward process. The best known of these is dopamine. In popular culture, this neurotransmitter is often equated with pleasure. However, evidence suggests that dopamine release has little to do with reward enjoyment; for example, it is often released before a reward is received. Hence, dopamine release may have less to do with pleasure, and more to do with reward anticipation or with motivation to obtain a reward.