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synonyms:oxytocin lyophilized; oxytocin acetate; H-Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2 Disulfide bond;
EINECS:200-048-4
MF:C43H66N12O12S2
MW:1007.19
Grade Standard:Medicine Grade
Appearance:White powder
Purity:98%
Oxytocin is a hormone that is made in the brain, in the hypothalamus. It is transported to, and secreted by, the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain.In chemistry, oxytocin is classed as a nonapeptide (a peptide containing nine amino acids), while its biological classification is as a neuropeptide. It acts both as a hormone and as a brain neurotransmitter.The release of oxytocin by the pituitary gland acts to regulate two female reproductive functions
The release of the hormone during labor increases uterine motility, making the muscles of the uterus (womb) contract. The release of oxytocin is triggered by the widening of the cervix and vagina during labor, and this effect is in turn increased by the subsequent contractions.
The main role of oxytocin is summed up nicely in a research paper by obstetric and gynecology specialists Navneet Magon and Sanjay Kalra.Other researchers sum up the reproductive importance of oxytocin by saying it "serves the continued propagation of a species," adding that through evolution its "repertoire has expanded to maintain a central role in more complicated aspects of reproductive behavior. For these reasons, we call oxytocin the great facilitator of life.Oxytocin, used as a prescription drug, is sold under the brand name Pitocin (and Syntocinon, although this is no longer on the market
Oxytocin's effects on emotion
Oxytocin released into the bloodstream affects the uterus and lactation, but its release into defined regions of the brain also affects emotional, cognitive, and social behaviors.
One review of the evidence says oxytocin "has attracted intense attention" after the discovery of its "amazing variety of behavioral functions.
