Dynamic developmental changes in neurotransmitters supporting infant attachment learning

Infant survival relies on rapid identification, remembering and behavioral responsiveness to caregivers' sensory cues. While neural circuits supporting infant attachment learning have largely remained elusive in children, use of invasive techniques has uncovered some of its features in rodents. During a 10-day sensitive period from birth, newborn rodents associate maternal odors with maternal pleasant or noxious thermo-tactile stimulation, which gives rise to a preference and approach behavior towards these odors, and blockade of avoidance learning. Here we review the neural circuitry supporting this neonatal odor learning, unique compared to adults, focusing specifically on the early roles of neurotransmitters such as glutamate, GABA (Gamma-AminoButyric Acid), serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, in the olfactory bulb, the anterior piriform cortex and amygdala. The review highlights the importance of deepening our knowledge of age-specific infant brain neurotransmitters and behavioral functioning that can be translated to improve the well-being of children during typical development and aid in treatment during atypical development in childhood clinical practice, and the care during rearing of domestic animals.

Automated summary

Infant survival depends on their ability to quickly recognize and respond to sensory cues from caregivers. In rodents, the neural circuits involved in infant attachment learning have been studied using invasive techniques. This review focuses on the unique neural circuitry underlying neonatal odor learning and the role of neurotransmitters in the olfactory bulb, anterior piriform cortex, and amygdala. It emphasizes the importance of understanding age-specific neurotransmitters and behavioral functioning in infants to improve child well-being and aid in clinical interventions.