Sexual activity before sleep increases oxytocin and reduces the stress-related hormone cortisol. Researchers say sexual activity at bedtime can help reduce symptoms of insomnia and reduce sleep disruptions. Read More
Researchers found functional and anatomical differences in the brains of people who are more likely to embark on risky behaviors. Read More
New research that simultaneously measures brain activity in children and their parents offers insights into bonding. Read More
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. Read More
Oxytocin injections in rodent models directly activated SEG/GRP neurons via oxytocin receptors and influenced male sexual functions in the lumbar spinal cord. Reducing the activity of oxytocin receptors resulted in a decrease in sexual activity and ejaculatory response in the animals. Read More
Mouse study links specific autism types to abnormal parvocellular oxytocin neurons in the hypothalamus. Read More
Oxytocin produced in the BNST increased stress-induced social anxiety behaviors in mice. The findings shed light on why oxytocin can sometimes provoke anti-social effects. Read More
Breastfeeding mothers with higher levels of oxytocin show more enhanced positive recognition of adult faces. The findings shed light on how oxytocin may support both continued nurturing behaviors and affects general social cognition of other adults. Read More
Levels of oxytocin were substantially lower in adults who experienced parental divorce as children compared to those whose families remained together. Read More
Researchers investigate how the eyes play a critical role in emotional expression and finding a potential mate. Read More
Researchers have uncovered a link between the Nlgn3 gene and the oxytocin signaling pathway in mouse models of ASD. Nlgn3 disrupts the oxytocin signaling pathway in neurons in the reward system, consequentially resulting in reduced social interactions in mice. Read More
Early-life exposure to antibiotics may impact brain signaling pathways associated with social behavior and pain regulation. Young mice treated with antibiotics had reduced expression of receptors that mediate endorphin, oxytocin, and vasopressin signaling in the frontal cortex. Read More
