Parental neurobiology: The 4 Hz lullaby

Many young mammals exhibit a characteristic ‘transport response’ upon being picked up by their mother. New research reveals the specific tactile mechanisms and afferents underlying this critical early-life response in rat pups. The transport response in altricial mammals, triggered when picked up, involves calming, immobility, and limb folding. This behavior facilitates safe maternal transport and is associated with reduced heart rate and vocalization. New research reveals the specific tactile mechanisms and afferents underlying this critical early-life response in rat pups.