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Review
. 2022 Oct 31;12(11):1603.
doi: 10.3390/biom12111603.

Oxytocin: A Multi-Functional Biomolecule with Potential Actions in Dysfunctional Conditions; From Animal Studies and Beyond

Anastasia S Tsingotjidou  1
Affiliations
Review

Oxytocin: A Multi-Functional Biomolecule with Potential Actions in Dysfunctional Conditions; From Animal Studies and Beyond

Anastasia S Tsingotjidou. Biomolecules. .

Abstract

Oxytocin is a hormone secreted from definite neuroendocrine neurons located in specific nuclei in the hypothalamus (mainly from paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei), and its main known function is the contraction of uterine and/or mammary gland cells responsible for parturition and breastfeeding. Among the actions of the peripherally secreted oxytocin is the prevention of different degenerative disorders. These actions have been proven in cell culture and in animal models or have been tested in humans based on hypotheses from previous studies. This review presents the knowledge gained from the previous studies, displays the results from oxytocin intervention and/or treatment and proposes that the well described actions of oxytocin might be connected to other numerous, diverse actions of the biomolecule.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2; autism; cardiovascular diseases; oxytocin; oxytocin secretion.

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Conflict of interest statement

The author declares no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Diagram showing the peripherally secreted oxytocin (a) and the axonal oxytocin release (b).
Figure 2
Figure 2
Diagram showing the diseases discussed in this manuscript which might be affected by the use of oxytocin. The key role of oxytocin is mentioned in each situation. The photographs (except the one of COVID-19) are from the video Tender Morality, by Stavros Panagiotakis.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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