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Oxytocin and its Receptor in the Process of Parturition

  • Review Article
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The Journal of the Society for Gynecologic Investigation: JSGI Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Objective

To review the potential roles of oxytocin (OT) and its receptor (OTR) in the regulation of parturition.

Methods

We reviewed the literature to describe thhe molecular aspects of the mechanisms of action and the regulation of OT and its receptor, particularly in relation to changes that occur at parturition.

Results

The literature provides strong support for a role for the OT/OTR system in teh regulation of human parturition. Paracrine rather than endocrine mechanisms might be more important, and the regulation of the receptor might be more important than the ligand. The system is regulated by a wide variety of chemical and physical factors, including sex steroids, orphan receptors, uterine stretch, and many others. There also might be important interactions with the immune system.

Conclusion

The OT/OTR system provides a potentially important therapeutic target for regulating the timing of human birth.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Perinatal Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, #205 CSC, 10240 Kingsway Avenue, T5A 3V2, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

    B. F. Mitchell MD & Birgit Schmid MSc

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  1. B. F. Mitchell MD
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  2. Birgit Schmid MSc
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Correspondence to B. F. Mitchell MD.

Additional information

We acknowledge the support of the Perinatal Research Centre, the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry 75th Anniversary Studentship Committee, the Medical Research Council of Canada, and the Children’s Health Foundation of Northern Alberta for their generous support of our research.

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Mitchell, B.F., Schmid, B. Oxytocin and its Receptor in the Process of Parturition. Reprod. Sci. 8, 122–133 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1177/107155760100800302

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