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Abstract
The article explores the multifaceted role of the neuropeptide oxytocin in human behavior and its connection to the oxytocin receptor ( OXTR ) gene. Oxytocin, produced in specific brain nuclei, is implicated in emotional, social, and maternal behaviors, stress reduction, uterine contraction during childbirth, and lactation. The OXTR gene, located on chromosome 3, encodes oxytocin receptors found in various body parts, including critical brain regions associated with social behaviors. The article delves into studies on rodents, revealing correlations between OXTR gene expression and pair bonding in the prefrontal cortex and social behavior regulation in the amygdala. The discussion extends to the impact of oxytocin on social support-seeking behavior, focusing on a specific genetic variation, rs53576. The article explores how this genetic variation influences empathy, stress reactivity, and susceptibility to disorders such as autism and social anxiety. Furthermore, the article examines structural and functional changes in the brain associated with OXTR gene variations. It discusses the role of DNA methylation in influencing oxytocin receptor availability, affecting social perception and responsiveness to negative stimuli. The article also highlights the oxytocinergic system's involvement in disorders such as autism and social anxiety, emphasizing the interplay between genetics and environmental factors. The article also touches on the potential therapeutic use of exogenous oxytocin in mitigating symptoms associated with these disorders. In summary, the article underscores the intricate relationship between oxytocin, the OXTR gene, and diverse aspects of human behavior, providing insights into social bonding, perception, and the development of behavioral disorders.
Highlights
Neuropeptide oxytocin, produced in hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei, is associated with emotional and social behaviors and maternal bonding.[1]
I already mentioned that A allele in rs53576 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of the Oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene is linked to the development of autism.[27]
The effects of oxytocinergic signals in the body and brain largely depend on the expression of the OXTR gene
Summary
Neuropeptide oxytocin, produced in hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei, is associated with emotional and social behaviors and maternal bonding.[1]. Findings from animal studies suggest that OXTR gene expression in the prefrontal cortex is associated with pair bonding, maternal and anxiety-related behavior.[11–13]. In a previous study on rats, it was found that female rats who showed a greater amount of maternal behavior had a higher number of oxytocin receptors present in the medial preoptic area, lateral septum, central nucleus of the amygdala, and paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus.[18]. In addition to maternal behavior, the expression of the OXTR gene is very important for pair bonding. Previous studies on prairie voles found that the nucleus accumbens of monogamous prairie voles has a higher density of oxytocin receptors than the nucleus accumbens of nonmonogamous prairie voles,[20] and an increase in the density of oxytocin receptors in the nucleus accumbens facilitates pair-bonding-related behavior.[21]. Another study found that the infusion of oxytocin antagonists in the nucleus accumbens or prefrontal cortex reduced partner preference formation or pair bonding in female prairie voles.[20]
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