Dr. Park’s research interests lie in investigating the neuroendocrinology of social behaviors, such as reproduction and aggression, and focuses on the molecular and genetic basis of reproductive behavior and environmental influences on reproduction and sexual differentiation. Long-term persistence of male reproductive behavior after castration has been reported in numerous species, including humans; therefore, delineating the underpinnings of gonadal steroid-independent male sexual behavior will help understand the complex mechanisms that contribute to variability in sexual function. We utilize an animal model in which a large proportion of hybrid mice retain the full repertoire of male sexual behaviors 5-6 months after castration to investigate the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying individual differences found in male reproductive behaviors. The long term goal is to utilize our findings to develop new treatments for sexual dysfunction that are independent of steroid hormones.
