Play Behavior in Response to Tickling in Rats (IMAGE)
Caption
This narrative illustration visualizes the discovery of how oxytocin-mediated neural circuits in the hypothalamus promote social bonding through playful interactions. A traditional Japanese landscape represents the oxytocin network, with symbolic hand gestures illustrating human–rat interactions. A classic sailboat signifies the diffusion of pleasure signals, while red spheres depict oxytocin molecules traveling through neural pathways. Joyful rats constructing an arched bridge reflect how positive touch enhances oxytocin fiber development. The repeated kanji “快” (pleasure) reinforces the emotional–neural link, while a hidden “戯” (play) in the red mountain adds a subtle artistic layer.
Credit
Professor Hirotaka Sakamoto of Okoyama University
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License
Original content