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Single nucleus RNA-sequencing reveals transcriptional synchrony across different relationships

Brusman, L. E.; Fultz, A. C.; Dowell, R. D.; Allen, M. A.; Donaldson, Z. R.

2024-03-29 neuroscience
10.1101/2024.03.27.587112 bioRxiv
Show abstract

As relationships mature, partners share common goals, improve their ability to work together, and experience coordinated emotions. However, the neural underpinnings responsible for this unique, pair-specific experience remain largely unexplored. Here, we used single nucleus RNA-sequencing to examine the transcriptional landscape of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) in socially monogamous prairie voles in peer or mating-based relationships. We show that, regardless of pairing type, prairie voles exhibit transcriptional synchrony with a partner. Further, we identify genes expressed in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells that are synchronized between partners, correlated with dyadic behavior, and sensitive to partner separation. Together, our data indicate that the pair-specific social environment profoundly shapes transcription in the NAc. This provides a potential biological mechanism by which shared social experience reinforces and strengthens relationships.

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