Oxytocin

Oxytocin is a cyclic nine-amino-acid neuropeptide (nonapeptide) whose molecule is stabilised by an internal disulfide bridge between Cys1 and Cys6, forming a characteristic ring structure. Because of this, it is considered one of the most frequently studied model peptides in neuroendocrine signalling. In in vitro research models, its main mechanism of interest is the interaction with the oxytocin receptor (OXTR), a G protein (Gq)-coupled receptor that activates the phospholipase C pathway and intracellular calcium mobilisation in cells. PeptXBio supplies it as a synthetic lyophilised powder intended for laboratory research.

In cell cultures and receptor-binding studies, oxytocin is used as a model ligand to investigate OXTR receptor activation and its selectivity compared with the related vasopressin receptors. Under in vitro conditions, researchers study the phospholipase C signalling pathway and the resulting change in intracellular calcium (Ca2+) concentration, as well as the relationship between the peptide’s structure and stability and the role of the disulfide ring in receptor binding. The compound is also used as a standard reference peptide when studying the mechanisms of G protein-coupled receptor signalling modulation. This information is provided for research context only.

The product is supplied as a lyophilised (freeze-dried) powder of ≥99% purity (HPLC). Each vial contains 10 mg of synthetic oxytocin. For laboratory use, the powder is reconstituted – dissolved in bacteriostatic water, which is sold separately. The solvent is run slowly down the side of the vial, and the vial is mixed with a gentle swirling motion, without shaking, to preserve the integrity of the peptide.

Keep the unopened vial of dry powder in a refrigerator at +2 to +8 °C, or in a freezer at −20 °C for longer storage, always protected from light. Once reconstituted in bacteriostatic water, keep the prepared solution refrigerated and use it within the time set out in your research protocol. Repeated freeze–thaw cycles should be avoided so that the quality of the peptide does not deteriorate.

In the in vitro research context, oxytocin is most often studied together with pharmacological tools that help reveal its signalling pathway: OXTR receptor antagonists (for example, atosiban) to check selectivity, and phospholipase C inhibitors and calcium signalling modulators to assess the mechanism. In comparative receptor studies it is often paired with the related peptide vasopressin to assess cross-affinity for the receptor family. Such combinations are used only in cell models and do not include any dosing instructions.

Absolutely not. This product is sold exclusively for laboratory research and scientific experiments. It is not intended for human or animal consumption and is not a medicine, dietary supplement or cosmetic product.