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Oxytocin: Structure, synthesis, receptors, and basic effects

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Abstract

This article reviews the data concerning oxytocin’s structure, synthesis, metabolism, receptors, and physiological effects. The classic humoral effect of this peptide consists in stimulation of myometrium contractility during delivery and lactation enhancement due to increased activity of myoepythelial cells in the mammary gland. In addition to its direct humoral effects, this peptide may influence memory consolidation; it has an antidepressive effect, and participates in the regulation of the cardiovascular system and sodium secretion. We also reviewed the role of oxytocin in the regulation of homeostasis on different levels.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Biological faculty, Department of human and animal physiology, Moscow State University, Moscow, 119991, Russia

    M. E. Grigor’eva & M. G. Golubeva

  2. Biological faculty, MSU, 119991, Moscow, Vorob’evy Gory, Russia

    M. E. Grigor’eva

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  1. M. E. Grigor’eva
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Original Russian Text © M.E. Grigor’eva, M.G. Golubeva, 2010, published in Neirokhimiya, 2010, vol. 27, no. 2, pp. 93–101.

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Grigor’eva, M.E., Golubeva, M.G. Oxytocin: Structure, synthesis, receptors, and basic effects. Neurochem. J. 4, 75–83 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1134/S1819712410020017

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