If removal of the testes occurs in a rat soon after birth, the result is
A) an adult with a reduced capacity to display masculine patterns of sexual behavior.
B) an adult with an enhanced capacity to display feminine patterns.
C) an adult that displays normal male sexual behavior if injected with testosterone before five days of age and throughout adulthood.
D) all of the above.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The removal of the testes in a rat soon after birth affects the development of sexual behavior in multiple ways. It leads to a reduced capacity to display masculine patterns of sexual behavior because the source of male sex hormones (testosterone) is removed. It also enhances the capacity to display feminine patterns of sexual behavior, as the hormonal balance shifts. However, if testosterone is introduced before five days of age and continued throughout adulthood, the rat can display normal male sexual behavior, indicating the role of testosterone in developing and maintaining these behaviors.

If Removal of the Testes Occurs in a Rat Soon