Hello Soletes!
Researchers have published a study demonstrating how affective interactions between dogs and humans not only strengthen the emotional bond between the two species, but also create neural synchronisation with implications for executive and collaborative tasks. This work also explores how pharmacological intervention with LSD can restore such social synchronisation in dogs with genetic mutations associated with autism.
The science behind bonding with our dogs
The bond between humans and dogs is deep and ancient, dating back thousands of years of domestication and joint evolution. In our daily lives, dogs are close companions, and previous studies have suggested that social interactions with dogs, such as eye contact and petting, increase the production of oxytocin, a hormone and neurotransmitter that strengthens attachment and trust in both species.
However, the present study goes further, demonstrating that the affective exchange with our dogs also has a physiological manifestation at the neuronal level. The researchers found that, During social interactions such as petting and eye contact, human and dog brains synchronise in key regions, such as the frontal and parietal areas, which are responsible for attention and social perception.
This phenomenon, known as brain coupling, is common among humans, especially in cooperative and social activities. But its discovery between dogs and humans marks a milestone in our understanding of interspecies relationships.
Methodology of the study
To examine this interspecies synchronisation, the scientists used non-invasive electroencephalography (EEG) in both humans and dogs. They used 16 electrodes in different brain regions, focusing on the frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital areas, which are key to joint attention and social activity.
The experiment was conducted under three different conditions:
Physical separation: Humans and dogs in separate rooms with no social interaction.
Same room, no interaction: Humans and dogs in the same room, but without visual or physical contact.
3. Direct interaction: Humans and dogs in the same room, with eye contact and cuddling.
The results showed that, only during direct interaction, there was significant synchronisation between the brain activities of the two species, confirming the brain coupling hypothesis.
Future Implications
Pharmacological intervention with LSD, a substance known for its effects on perception and consciousness, restored brain coupling in dogs with autism, suggesting that the drug has the potential to ameliorate social deficits caused by autism-related genetic mutations. This finding is of great significance, as it opens up new possibilities in autism treatment research, not only in humans, but also in animals. Although the use of LSD in medicine has been a controversial topic, studies like this one are rekindling interest in its therapeutic potential.
This study reinforces the idea that the bond between humans and dogs is much deeper than previously thought. Not only do we share an emotional connection with our canine companions, but also a brain-level synchronisation that enhances our ability to interact and cooperate.
