No abstract

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract

Potentiation of infant isolation calls following a brief reunion with the mother is considered an index of filial bonding in altricial rodents. We investigated potentiation of isolation and reunion responses in 15-day-old unweaned domestic piglets (Sus scrofa domesticus). When piglets were re-isolated following a brief, comforting reunion with their mother and littermates in their home pen, they displayed a persistence (relative potentiation) of calling and jumping. In contrast, when re-isolated following a brief interaction with their mother or an unfamiliar sow in a familiar or unfamiliar location, or with littermates alone, calling rate and locomotion dropped. Subsequently, piglets spent more time near their mother's face if they had previously interacted with an unfamiliar sow rather than their mother, consistent with maternal recognition. Although we did not detect maternal potentiation as described in altricial rodents, filial attachment bonding was clearly evident in piglet responses, especially during reunions.

No abstract

In recent years, a growing interest has emerged in the beneficial effects of positive social interactions on health. The present work aims to review animal and human studies linking social interactions and health throughout the lifespan, with a focus on current knowledge of the possible mediating role of opioids and oxytocin. During the prenatal period, a positive social environment contributes to regulating maternal stress response and protecting the fetus from exposure to maternal active glucocorticoids. Throughout development, positive social contact with the caregiver acts as a “hidden regulator” and promotes infant neuroaffective development. Postnatal social neuroprotection interventions involving caregiver–infant physical contact seem to be crucial for rescuing preterm infants at risk for neurodevelopmental disorders. Attachment figures and friendships in adulthood continue to have a protective role for health and brain functioning, counteracting brain aging. In humans, implementation of meditative practices that promote compassionate motivation and prosocial behavior appears beneficial for health in adolescents and adults. Human and animal studies suggest the oxytocinergic and opioidergic systems are important mediators of the effects of social interactions. However, most of the studies focus on a specific phase of life (i.e., adulthood). Future studies should focus on the role of opioids and oxytocin in positive social interactions adopting a lifespan perspective.

No abstract