🧬 Oxytocin Peptide – Structure, Function & Research Applications

Introduction

Oxytocin is a naturally inspired nonapeptide hormone analog, extensively studied for its role in social bonding, reproduction, and neurochemical signaling. In research settings, synthetic Oxytocin serves as a precise tool for investigating peptide–receptor interactions, endocrine regulation, and neuromodulation pathways.

This compound is strictly research-use-only (RUO) and is intended exclusively for laboratory, molecular biology, and biochemical studies. It is not approved for human or veterinary applications.

Chemical Identity and Molecular Structure

• Peptide Name: Oxytocin
• Sequence: Cys–Tyr–Ile–Gln–Asn–Cys–Pro–Leu–Gly–NH₂
• Molecular Formula: C₄₃H₆₆N₁₂O₁₂S₂
• Molecular Weight: 1007.19 g/mol
• Peptide Type: Cyclic nonapeptide (disulfide bridge between Cys¹ and Cys⁶)
• Form: Lyophilized white powder
• Purity: ≥98% (HPLC verified)

The disulfide bond between cysteine residues forms a cyclic structure that enhances stability and receptor specificity. Synthetic analogs allow researchers to study structural modifications and their impact on receptor binding and biological activity.

Scientific Background

Oxytocin, first isolated in the early 20th century, is a well-characterized neuropeptide frequently used in biochemical and neuroscience research. Laboratory studies focus on:

• Neurochemical signaling in the hypothalamus-pituitary axis
• Signal transduction involved in social and behavioral processes
• Receptor binding dynamics at the oxytocin receptor (OXTR)
• Peptide stability and analog synthesis for controlled studies

Synthetic Oxytocin provides high-purity, reproducible material suitable for both in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Research Applications

Neuroscience & Behavioral Studies

• Investigating social cognition, emotional processing, and stress responses
• Evaluating receptor activity and neurochemical feedback loops

Endocrine & Molecular Biology Research

• Studying peptide hormone signaling and calcium-mediated pathways
• Modeling pituitary regulation and hormone release mechanisms

Biochemical & Pharmaceutical Research

• Serving as a model for drug design and peptide synthesis
• Assessing peptide stability for next-generation therapeutics

Storage and Handling

• Storage Temperature: −20 °C (lyophilized)
• Reconstitution: Sterile water or pH 7.0–7.4 buffer
• Shelf Life: Up to 24 months (unopened, desiccated)
• Handling: Avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles
• Usage: Laboratory research only; not for diagnostic or therapeutic use

Regulatory and Safety Information

• Oxytocin peptide is not FDA, EMA, or TGA approved for clinical, cosmetic, or dietary use
• Must be clearly labeled “for research use only (RUO)”
• Laboratories should follow institutional biosafety protocols and proper disposal procedures

Conclusion

Oxytocin peptide is a critical research tool in neuroscience and biochemical studies, providing insights into brain and endocrine system regulation.

Its synthetic form ensures high purity, structural consistency, and reproducibility, making it ideal for controlled studies on peptide signaling, receptor dynamics, and analog development.

While not intended for human use, Oxytocin continues to advance our understanding of hormonal peptides and neurochemical networks in modern scientific research.