Pitocin · Syntocinon
Oxytocin is a neuropeptide hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary gland, primarily known for its roles in childbirth, lactation, and social bonding. Researchers primarily study oxytocin for its effects on social behaviors, maternal nurturing, and emotional regulation. Key findings suggest that oxytocin enhances social reward and facilitates pair bonding, while also exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties that may influence various physiological processes. Current research is focused on elucidating the mechanisms of oxytocin's action in the brain, exploring its potential applications in addressing social impairments in conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, and developing innovative tools for studying its receptor dynamics.
| Formula | C43H66N12O12S2 |
| Molecular Weight | 1007.2 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 50-56-6 |
| PubChem CID | 439302 |
| ChEMBL ID | CHEMBL2369424 |
~3-5 minutes
~3-5 minutes
~15-30 minutes
Poor bioavailability
Oxytocin is rapidly degraded by oxytocinase, limiting its duration of action.
Oxytocin primarily exerts its effects through the oxytocin receptor (OTR), a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that activates the phospholipase C (PLC) signaling pathway, leading to increased intracellular calcium levels and subsequent activation of protein kinase C (PKC). This signaling cascade is involved in various biological processes, including social bonding, maternal behaviors, and modulation of stress responses. While the precise mechanisms of OTR-mediated actions in different tissues are still being elucidated, its role in influencing neuronal circuitry and behavior is well established.
4,378
Total Citations
11
Human/RCT
4.7
Avg. Influence
2025
Latest
Researchers observed that oxytocin and vasopressin facilitate social attachment and affiliation in monogamous prairie voles by modulating reward pathways.
The study demonstrated that oxytocin and vasopressin are critical for social recognition in mammals, influencing olfactory processing in species such as rats and mice.
The study demonstrated the design and synthesis of selective peptide agonists and antagonists for oxytocin and vasopressin receptors, highlighting their potential as research tools.
Researchers observed that abnormalities in oxytocin and vasopressin neurotransmission may contribute to the social impairments seen in autism.
Researchers observed that oxidation of therapeutic proteins and peptides, including oxytocin, leads to structural modifications that can reduce biological activity and alter pharmacokinetics, highlighting the need for careful characterization during development.
The study demonstrated that endogenous peptides, including oxytocin, influence blood-brain barrier permeability, although significant amounts do not cross into the brain under normal conditions.
Quintana Daniel S & Guastella Adam J · Trends in cognitive sciences · 2020
Researchers explored the role of oxytocin, often linked to social behavior, by examining its evolutionary background and developmental changes. They found that oxytocin acts as an allostatic hormone, helping to regulate both social interactions and responses to various environmental challenges.
Key findings
Researchers observed that early experiences and hormonal manipulations can lead to sexually dimorphic effects on behavior in prairie voles, potentially mediated by oxytocin and vasopressin systems.
Researchers observed that oxytocin and vasopressin modulate various social behaviors through distinct neural circuits, with implications for improving social functioning in disorders like autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers observed that various neuropeptides, including oxytocin, play modulatory roles in learning and memory processes, particularly under stress conditions.
There is a lack of comprehensive human trials investigating the therapeutic potential of oxytocin in treating social impairments, such as those found in autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, the long-term effects of oxytocin administration on behavior and neurophysiology remain unclear, as well as the specific mechanisms by which oxytocin interacts with other neuropeptides like alpha-MSH in regulating complex behaviors.
Solubility
Oxytocin is soluble in water and saline solutions.
Lyophilized
Stable for 2+ years at -20°C, 12 months at 4°C
Reconstituted
Use within 14 days when refrigerated at 4°C
Avoid
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, direct light
Solvent
Bacteriostatic water or sterile saline recommended
Safety information is derived from published research and may not reflect all known risks. This is not medical advice.
🇩🇪DE
Approved for medical use. Not a controlled substance.
🇺🇸US
FDA approved for medical use in labor induction and postpartum hemorrhage. Not a controlled substance.
🇦🇺AU
TGA approved for medical use. Not a controlled substance.
🇬🇧UK
MHRA approved for medical use. Not a controlled substance.
Legal status information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory changes. Always verify with official government sources before making any decisions.
Publications per Year
46 total| Vendor | Amount | Price | Price/mg | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
BESTBiolab ShopUS | 10mg | $42.40 | $4.24/mg | |
Ruo BioUS | 5mg | $22.00 | $4.40/mg | |
MoglabsUS | 5mg | $24.00 | $4.80/mg | |
Welli LabsUS | 10mg | $54.99 | $5.50/mg | |
Glacier AminosUS | 10mg | $55.99 | $5.60/mg |
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This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Many substances listed may not be approved for human use and may be subject to drug regulation laws (e.g., AMG in Germany, FDA in the US). PepStack does not encourage the use of any substance on humans. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. Use of this information is entirely at your own risk. PepStack assumes no liability for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content provided. Full disclaimer