The
Discussion
The FosB gene in mice is clearly linked to their maternal instincts.
The research clearly shows a corrolation between the FosB gene and the maternal instinct of mice.
The correct maternal behavior was lost when the gene was mutated. The next issue to be addressed is what proteins are made by this segment of DNA and what hormones it controls in the mice. The authors of this paper think that this is involved with the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is located in the brain stem, visable here --
The hypothalamus can be seen in this close
up of the Brain Stem.
For more information see Human Cortical functions .
The gene mutation did not effect any other functions of the mice. This indicates that FosB is exclusive to nurturing behavior. The discovery of the functions of the FosB gene in mice could lead to similar discoveries for the human genome. Ethical ramifications of such discoveries are a hot topic in current scientific society. What questions might be raised by such a discovery? If this gene does exist in humans, should people with mutated alleles not be allowed to raise their children? Should it be corrected in some way by science? Is having a mutated gene an excuse for child abuse? Is it a defense in court? The answers to these questions are not clearly defined, but there are several sources of information for the public to access before making up their minds.
A discussion of the whole Nature vs. Nurture argument and more related links can be found below:
This page was created by Group 3.
12/01/96