Methylation of the oxytocin gene OXT was associated with maternal personal distress, resulting in harsher parenting. OXT methylation was also negatively correlated with gray matter in the right inferior temporal gyrus.
Researchers have discovered a key molecule that appears to reduce anxiety in male mice, but not females.
Silencing a gene responsible for the production of oxytocin can affect a person's ability to form healthy relationships and recognize the emotional states of others, a new study reports.