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Sexual Health

Oxytocin

Social Neuropeptide

Nonapeptide governing social bonding, trust, pair bonding, arousal, and reproductive function. Primary research tool for social neuroscience, ASD, PTSD, and attachment biology.

Amino Acids9
Mol. Weight1007.2 Da
Half-Life1–6 minutes (IV); longer IN
Availability ✅ In Stock
Amino Acid Sequence Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH₂

What Is Oxytocin?

Oxytocin is synthesised in the hypothalamic PVN and SON, released both peripherally (posterior pituitary) and centrally (axonal projections). One of the most evolutionarily conserved peptides in vertebrate neuroscience, with roles spanning uterine contraction (peripheral) to social bonding, trust, and sexual reward (central).

Key Mechanisms

  • OTR / Gq / PLC / IP3 — primary intracellular cascade: Ca²⁺ release and PKC activation
  • Mesolimbic dopamine — OTR in NAc potentiates D2 signalling; basis of social reward
  • Amygdala CRF suppression — PVN→CeA projections reduce fear conditioning and anxiety
  • Serotonin cross-talk — bidirectional 5-HT feedback in dorsal raphe

Key References

  1. Kosfeld M et al. “Oxytocin increases trust in humans.” Nature, 2005;435:673–676.
  2. Insel TR, Young LJ. “The neurobiology of attachment.” Nat Rev Neurosci, 2001;2:129–136.
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