When scientists transferred the gene for the arginine vasopressin (AVP) receptor from male voles into male mice, the male mice ____.
A)began to eat roots, a preferred food of voles
B)attempted to locate and mate with female voles
C)preferred female mice they had already mated with to new females
D)ceased normal social behaviors such as grooming and co-sleeping
E)became aggressive and territorial

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The transfer of the arginine vasopressin (AVP) receptor gene from male voles to male mice resulted in the male mice showing a preference for female mice they had already mated with, which is a behavior observed in voles and attributed to the effects of the AVP receptor in promoting pair-bonding and monogamous relationships.

When Scientists Transferred the Gene for the Arginine Vasopressin (AVP)