Hi Damien,

That is a difficult question, and likely depends on the context, in terms of specific brain regions and sex. You could likely have opposite effects in males vs. females. In general, a 30 minute separation followed by a reunion is likely going to increase OXT activity, possibly AVP as well. Instigating social play between pups by briefly isolating them them reuniting may produce an acute increase in AVP and/or OXT activity.

Thanks Benjamin for your answer!

Indeed, it is probably context-specific and I was maybe not specific enough in my question, but I am mainly interested to see the OXT/AVP neurons within the 'social brain network'. This is why I think that your suggestion might be a good way to increase both maternal and inter-pups interactions during reunion.

Thanks again!