Oxytocin
Overview
A cyclic nonapeptide hormone with established obstetric uses (labor induction, postpartum hemorrhage). Extensively studied in social behavior, bonding, and anxiety research at intranasal doses.
Research profile · for clinicians
Based on research: an established obstetric hormone (labor, postpartum bleeding) that at low intranasal doses is studied for social cognition, bonding, trust, and anxiety response. Central OXTR signaling in the amygdala and reward circuits is the focus in behavioral research.
Mechanism of action
OXTR agonism in the uterus drives smooth-muscle contraction; central OXTR signaling in the amygdala, nucleus accumbens, and PVN modulates social cognition, trust, and stress responses.
Research record
- [01]Established obstetric clinical use (labor and postpartum).
- [02]Intranasal oxytocin in autism, social cognition, and anxiety research literature.
Selected references
Oxytocin and social behavior
Nat. Rev. Neurosci., 2011