The neuroendocrinology of primate maternal behavior

►Recent studies indicate that primate maternal behavior can be modulated by hormones and neuropeptides. ►Estrogen and oxytocin appear to enhance maternal responsiveness in female primates. ►The opioids may affect attachment to infants, but the exact nature of this effect is not clear. ►Cortisol may enhance maternal responsiveness in inexperienced females, but may inhibit maternal behavior in more experienced mothers. ►Both high corticotropin-releasing hormone and low serotonin levels within the brain appear to inhibit maternal behavior in primates.