Oxytocin – Uses, Nasal Spray

The so-called “love hormone,” oxytocin plays an important role in pregnancy, birth, and emotional bonding.

Oxytocin is a hormone best known for its roles in childbirth and lactation.

Oxytocin is sometimes referred to as the “love hormone” or “love drug” for its roles in sexual bonding, parenting, and other social behaviors.

Oxytocin in Childbirth

Oxytocin is produced in a part of the brain called the hypothalamus, and is stored in the pituitary gland.

The production of naturally occurring oxytocin in the body helps to stimulate the uterus to contract at the end of pregnancy, signaling the start of childbirth.

Laboratory-made oxytocin, called Pitocin, has been used for many years to help start or strengthen uterine contractions during labor or to reduce bleeding after delivery.

Alternately, drugs that act against oxytocin are often given to help stop premature labor.

Oxytocin also helps to stimulate milk production after birth.

Other Uses of Oxytocin

In recent years, scientific studies of the effects of oxytocin on the brain suggest its role goes well beyond childbirth and lactation.

Studies in laboratory animals and humans suggest that the “love hormone” plays an important role in the establishment of social relationships and behaviors, such as caregiving.

Oxytocin also may have anxiolytic properties, meaning it may help reduce anxiety.

Oxytocin has been promoted as a “wonder drug” that can help enhance positive feelings and social skills while also purportedly alleviating serious cognitive and psychiatric and behavioral conditions, including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and autism.

However, there’s little clinical evidence to suggest that oxytocin is an effective treatment for psychiatric conditions.

A scientific review published in 2013 suggested that it might help improve communication skills in people with autism spectrum disorders.

Oxytocin Nasal Spray

Oxytocin may be administered either as an injection or a nasal spray.

It’s available by prescription under the brand names Pitocin and Syntocinon.

Nasal sprays are commonly used in medical studies of psychiatric effects, because a nasal spray allows oxytocin to travel more readily from the bloodstream to the brain than an injection.

Oxytocin in Men

Men naturally produce lower levels of oxytocin than women.

Studies of men in monogamous relationships have suggested that in men, the hormone may contribute to fidelity by enhancing their female partner’s attractiveness compared to other women.

More research is needed to determine oxytocin’s effects on men.

Effects of Oxytocin Nasal Spray on Social Affiliation – Full Text View

Schizophrenia is a complex and heritable disorder that encompasses several clinical symptom domains and functional impairments. Existing treatments of schizophrenia, although effective against positive symptoms, fail to benefit negative symptoms, the focus of the current protocol. One of the strategies of novel drug development depends on identifying heritable physiological deficits that mark the disease liability and are thought to occur along the causal pathway of negative symptoms. These heritable physiological deficits are often found in the biological relatives of schizophrenia proband; particularly those who have schizophrenia related personality styles [defined by schizophrenia spectrum personalities (SSP) in the diagnostic system], even though they do not have the full-blown illness. The current protocol will pilot a strategy of targeting biomarkers of negative symptoms using intranasal oxytocin in relatives of schizophrenia patients. The drug probe studies in such non-clinical sample have several advantages including the absence of other drug treatment that may modulate the response, and the lack of generalized deficits causing problems with task comprehension/engagement that may mute the therapeutic signal. In addition, finding of efficacy of the experimental drug on the target physiological deficit and the associated symptoms has clinical implications on its own rights. This is because about 25% of subjects with schizophrenia spectrum personality disorders experience serious functional impairments.

Oxytocin is an extensively used drug, which is well tolerated with few serious side effects. Several lines of evidence suggest its putative role in the treatment of negatives symptoms, particularly a lack of social drive and related symptoms.

The current study will examine the effects of intranasal oxytocin on physiological/cognitive markers of negative symptoms in 24 participants with schizophrenia spectrum traits. Subjects will be tested in two one-day studies carried out at least a month apart. Subjects will receive a 24 IU dose of intranasal oxytocin (or placebo) followed by a battery of cognitive/neurophysiological tests administered 50 minutes later completed over the next 155 minutes. A second dose of the drug (oxytocin or placebo) will be administered 2 hours after the 1st in order to maintain therapeutic plasma levels and to complete all testing.

Advances in the field of intranasal oxytocin research: lessons learned and future directions for clinical research

1.

Kenkel WM. Corpus colossal: a bibliometric analysis of neuroscience abstracts and impact factor. Front Integr Neurosci. 2019;13:18.

CAS 
PubMed 
PubMed Central 

Google Scholar 

5.

Rimmele U, Hediger K, Heinrichs M, Klaver P. Oxytocin makes a face in memory familiar. J Neurosci. 2009;29:38.

CAS 
PubMed 
PubMed Central 

Google Scholar 

9.

Schulze L, Lischke A, Greif J, Herpertz SC, Heinrichs M, Domes G. Oxytocin increases recognition of masked emotional faces. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2011;36:1378–82.

CAS 
PubMed 

Google Scholar 

13.

Klackl J, Pfundmair M, Agroskin D, Jonas E. Who is to blame? Oxytocin promotes nonpersonalistic attributions in response to a trust betrayal. Biol Psychol. 2013;92:387–94.

PubMed 

Google Scholar 

17.

Ne’eman R, Perach-Barzilay N, Fischer-Shofty M, Atias A, Shamay-Tsoory SG. Intranasal administration of oxytocin increases human aggressive behavior. Horm Behav. 2016;80:125–31.

PubMed 

Google Scholar 

21.

Grace SA, Rossell SL, Heinrichs M, Kordsachia C, Labuschagne I. Oxytocin and brain activity in humans: a systematic review and coordinate-based meta-analysis of functional MRI studies. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2018;96:6–24.

CAS 
PubMed 

Google Scholar 

28.

Scheele D, Wille A, Kendrick KM, Stoffel-Wagner B, Becker B, Güntürkün O, et al. Oxytocin enhances brain reward system responses in men viewing the face of their female partner. Proc Natl Acad Sci. 2013;110:20308–13.

CAS 
PubMed 

Google Scholar 

32.

van Zuiden M, Frijling JL, Nawijn L, Koch SB, Goslings JC, Luitse JS, et al. Intranasal oxytocin to prevent posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms: a randomized controlled trial in emergency department patients. Biol Psychiatry. 2017;81:1030–40.

PubMed 

Google Scholar 

42.

Walum H, Waldman ID, Young LJ. Statistical and methodological considerations for the interpretation of intranasal oxytocin studies. Biol Psychiatry. 2016;79:251–7.

CAS 
PubMed 

Google Scholar 

46.

Parker KJ, Garner JP, Libove RA, Hyde SA, Hornbeak KB, Carson DS, et al. Plasma oxytocin concentrations and OXTR polymorphisms predict social impairments in children with and without autism spectrum disorder. Proc Natl Acad Sci. 2014;111:12258–63.

CAS 
PubMed 

Google Scholar 

53.

MacLean EL, Wilson SR, Martin WL, Davis JM, Nazarloo HP, Carter CS. Challenges for measuring oxytocin: the blind men and the elephant? Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2019;107:225–31.

CAS 
PubMed 
PubMed Central 

Google Scholar 

102.

Spengler FB, Schultz J, Scheele D, Essel M, Maier W, Heinrichs M, et al. Kinetics and dose dependency of intranasal oxytocin effects on amygdala reactivity. Biol Psychiatry. 2017;82:885–94.

CAS 
PubMed 

Google Scholar 

Oxytocin (Oxy) Nasal Spray Used For | Torrance

Oxytocin Nasal Spray

The hormone oxytocin is best known for its roles in childbirth and lactation. It is sometimes called the “love hormone” or “love drug” for its contribution to parenting, sexual bonding, and other social behaviors. 

American Integrative Pharmacy (AIP), led by Dr. Neema Yazdanpanah, provides safe and proven compounding medications to patients in Long Beach, Torrance, Los Angeles, South Bay Orange County, Southern California areas, and online nationwide.

Oxytocin in Childbirth

Oxytocin is manufactured in an area of the brain known as the hypothalamus. It is then stored in the pituitary gland. The creation of naturally occurring oxytocin in the body stimulates the uterus to contract at the end of pregnancy, which signals childbirth.

Lab-produced oxytocin, known as Pitocin, has been used for a number of years to initiate or strengthen uterine contractions during labor or to control bleeding following delivery.

On the other hand, medications that act against oxytocin are usually given to help halt premature labor. In addition, oxytocin also assists in the stimulation of milk production after birth. 

Other Uses of Oxytocin

Scientific studies undertaken in recent years to examine the effect of oxytocin on the brain suggest that it has a much larger role beyond childbirth and lactation.

Studies in lab animals and humans indicate that the “love hormone” plays a vital role in establishing social relationships and behaviors, such as caregiving. In addition, oxytocin may have anxiolytic properties, which means that it may help manage anxiety.

Oxytocin has been referred to as a “wonder drug” that can help improve positive feelings and social skills while also supposedly relieving serious cognitive and psychiatric and behavioral disorders, such as autism, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

But, there is scant clinical evidence to indicate that oxytocin is an effective treatment for psychiatric disorders. According to a 2013 scientific review, oxytocin may help enhance communication skills in individuals with autism spectrum disorders.

Oxytocin Nasal Spray

Oxytocin may be administered as a nasal spray or an injection. In general, nasal sprays are used in medical studies of psychiatric effects, as a nasal spray enables oxytocin to travel more easily from the bloodstream to the brain compared to injection.

Oxytocin in Men

The production of oxytocin in men is naturally lower than women. In studies of men in monogamous relationships, it has been suggested that in males, oxytocin may contribute to faithfulness by enhancing the attractiveness of their female partner to them in comparison to other women. 

Benefits in Weight Control

Oxytocin nasal spray is the synthetic version of the hormone oxytocin. This is vital for managing food intake and weight. 

According to researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital, oxytocin nasal spray decreased calorie and fat intake at a test meal without impacting the appetite, but they were unsure how the medication has that effect. Outcomes of their new pilot study in ten overweight and obese males suggest that one way oxytocin decreases food intake might be enhancing self-control. 

This study received pilot grants from the National Institutes of Health-funded Boston Nutrition Obesity Research Center and Nutrition Obesity Research Center at Harvard and presented some exciting outcomes. 

Upon receiving oxytocin, participants expressed the need for food less often. This showed that they were acting less impulsively and exercising more control over their behavior upon receiving oxytocin.

Researchers reported that the preliminary outcomes in males are promising. Oxytocin nasal spray did not show any strong side effects and is not invasive or complicated like obesity surgery.

AIP provides advanced compounding pharmacy solutions, including online prescription refills to patients in Long Beach, Torrance, Los Angeles, South Bay Orange County, Southern California areas, and online nationwide.

 For more information on compound pharmacy medications available or to make an online prescription purchase, please click here or call Toll Free 1-855-247-7948.

American Integrative Pharmacy is located in Torrance, CA serving residents in and around Orange County, Los Angeles, Long Beach and surrounding areas. Online prescription sales are available across the US.

6 Surprising Uses for the ‘Love Hormone’ Oxytocin That You Need to Know

Written by: Neel Patel PharmD. Candidate, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy Class of 2020 

Oxytocin is a hormone secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, a pea-sized structure at the base of the brain. Sometimes known as the “cuddle hormone” or the “love hormone,” oxytocin promotes feelings of devotion, trust, and bonding and is released through physical touches, such as hugs, and also linked to the intensity of orgasms during sexual activity.

A 2013 review noted all of oxytocin’s possible relationship-enhancing effects, which were said to include:

• Fostering pro-relationship mindsets and behaviors
• Enhancing the processing of bonding cues
• Facilitating improved communication
• Empathy
• Trust
• Fidelity

For females, it is the neuropeptide responsible for inducing labor contractions in pregnant women and also the “let down reflex,” which stimulates the production of milk during breastfeeding. Oxytocin is synthesized in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary where it can be released when needed.

Figure 1: Chapter 16- Nutritional Aspects of Pregnancy and Breastfeeding. Vicky Pehling

1. Suckling stimulates nerves in the nipple and areola that travel to the hypothalamus
2. In response, the hypothalamus stimulates the posterior pituitary to release oxytocin and anterior pituitary to release prolactin
3. Oxytocin stimulates lobules in the breast to let down (release) milk from storage. Prolactin stimulates additional milk production

Oxytocin Uses In Childbirth

In general, oxytocin should not be used to start labor unless there are specific medical reasons. However, the FDA approves the use of oxytocin for pregnant women who have complications of childbirth, such as:

• Cardiovascular-Renal Disease
• Eclampsia
• Preeclampsia
• Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM)

It can also be used to reduce and control postpartum uterine bleeding with minimal side effects, namely nausea, vomiting, and headaches.  

Alternative Uses of Oxytocin

In recent years, it has been suggested that oxytocin may prove beneficial for a number of clinical conditions beyond those approved by the FDA.

Oxytocin uses studied outside of FDA indication include: 

Chronic / Acute Pain – Numerous randomized studies have shown promising results of oxytocin use for chronic and acute pain. In addition to activating its own receptors and decreasing pain signals, oxytocin binds to opioid receptors and stimulates endogenous opioid release in the brain. In addition to relieving pain, oxytocin lowers serum cortisol and can produce a calming effect and improve mood.(1)

Oxytocin can also modulate pain by counteracting with psychological features such as calming the emotion of pain or removing the cognitive attention to pain.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – Oxytocin has been implicated in the regulation of repetitive and affiliative behaviors and stress reactivity. Therefore, it is expected to be a potential therapeutic resource for the social core symptoms of ASD, since this neuropeptide can modulate human social behavior and cognition. (2)

Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) – HSDD is attributed to an imbalance in central sexual excitatory (dopamine, norepinephrine, melanocortin, and oxytocin) and sexual inhibitory (serotonin, opioid, endocannabinoid, and prolactin) pathways. For some, treatment with oxytocin nasal spray has shown to improve the sexual quality of life significantly.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – Research findings indicate that repeated intranasal oxytocin offers promising early preventive intervention for PTSD for individuals at increased risk for PTSD due to high acute symptom severity.(3)

Obesity / Weight Loss – Scientists suspect that one element of the obesity epidemic is that the brains of obese people respond differently to images of delicious, calorically dense foods. Studies have shown that oxytocin reduces activation in the hypothalamus, an area of the brain that controls hunger, and increases activation in areas of the brain associated with impulse control. Thus, some believe that the hormone creates less of a need to eat, reduces the compulsion to eat for fun, and improves impulse control when it comes to actually reaching for that second slice of cake.(4) 

Addiction & Withdrawal – Oxytocin has also been used as a potential mediator and regulator of drug addiction. Several studies have shown good outcomes in cocaine, opioid, and cannabis addiction. In a placebo-controlled trial the administration of oxytocin demonstrated efficacy in reducing withdrawal symptoms, anxiety and need for lorazepam in subjects with alcohol dependence undergoing detoxification.(5)

Compounding Oxytocin For Patients

Innovation Compounding can compound oxytocin in a variety of forms such as nasal sprays, topical creams, oral tablets, sublingual tablets, and troches (lozenges). Injectable oxytocin is also available to medical practioners and clinics.

If you’d like to know more about the use of oxytocin for sexual wellness or other conditions, please connect with one of our pharmacists or talk with a physician about your options.

The information contained herein is not intended to replace or substitute for conventional medical care, or encourage its abandonment. Patients should consult with a physician to discuss all treatment options available to meet their individual needs.

Behavioral effects of multiple-dose oxytocin treatment in autism: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial with long-term follow-up | Molecular Autism

No significant baseline differences were revealed between participants allocated to the OT or PL group for any of the questionnaires (see Additional file 1: Table S3) or in terms of participant characteristics (see Table 1).

Primary outcome—Social Responsiveness Scale

Self-rated SRS-A

Between-group analyses revealed no significant main effect of treatment (F(1,76) = .12, p = .37, ŋ² = .00), nor a treatment × session interaction effect (F(2,76) = 1.17, p = .16, ŋ² = .03), indicating that pre-to-post changes in self-reported social responsiveness were not significantly larger in the OT compared to the PL group (see Fig. 2 and Table 2 for the effect sizes of between-group differences separately for each session). Within-group analyses showed that Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-A) scores were significantly reduced (compared to baseline) in the OT group at session T1 (immediately after treatment: p = .033), T2 (1 month post-treatment; p = .048), and at trend-level at session T3 (1 year post-treatment: p = .07). However, a similar reduction (compared to baseline) was evident in the PL group at session T2 (p = .015), indicating no specific benefit of OT over the PL treatment (see Table 2 reporting single-sample t tests assessing within-group changes from baseline).

Fig. 2

Effects of oxytocin treatment on autism symptoms and attachment. Mean pre-to-post changes (change from baseline) on self-report and informant-based questionnaires are visualized for the oxytocin (OT) and placebo (PL) treatment groups at assessment session “T1” (immediately after the four-week treatment), “T2” (at follow-up, one month post-treatment), and “T3” (at follow-up, 1 year post-treatment). Mean changes from baseline are visualized separately for a Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-A) self-report version, b SRS-A informant-based version, c Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised (RBS-R), d State Adult Attachment Measure (SAAM) Avoidance subscale, e SAAM Security subscale, and f SAAM Anxiety subscale. Lower scores indicate improvement for the SRS-A, RBS-R, SAAM Avoidance, and SAAM Anxiety questionnaires. For the SAAM Security questionnaire, higher scores indicate improvement. Vertical bars denote ± standard errors. Asterisks (*) indicate Cohen’s d ≥ .50 (medium-sized effect). Circles (°) indicate Cohen’s d ≥ .80 (large-sized effect)

Informant-rated SRS-A

Between-group analyses of the informant-rated SRS-A scores revealed no significant main effect of treatment (F(1, 60) = .78, p = .19, ŋ² = .03), nor a treatment x session interaction effect (F(2, 60) = .83, p = .22, ŋ² = .03), indicating that pre-to-post changes in informant-rated social responsiveness were not significantly larger in the OT compared to the PL group (see Fig. 2 and Table 2 for the effect sizes of between-group differences separately for each session). Note however that at session T2 (1 month post-treatment), informant-rated SRS-A scores were significantly reduced in the OT group (compared to baseline) (p = .002), but not in the PL group (p = .67) (see Table 2 reporting single-sample t tests assessing within-group changes from baseline).

Secondary outcome—Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised

In terms of repetitive behaviors, between-group analyses identified a significant main effect of treatment (F(1, 74) = 3.20, p = .04, ŋ² = .08) (but no treatment x session interaction: F(2, 74) = 1.04, p = .18, ŋ² = .03), indicating that across assessment sessions, pre-to-post improvements in repetitive behaviors were significantly larger in the OT compared to the PL group (see Fig. 2 and Table 2 for the effect sizes of between-group differences separately for each session). Within-group analyses confirmed that Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised (RBS-R) scores were significantly reduced (compared to baseline) in the OT group at session T1 (immediately after treatment: p = .002), T2 (1 month post-treatment; p = .002), and session T3 (1 year post-treatment: p = .02), but not consistently in the PL group (T1: p = .15; T2: p = .012; T3: p = .70) (see Table 2 reporting single-sample t tests assessing within-group changes from baseline).

Secondary outcome—State Adult Attachment Measure

Attachment avoidance

In terms of attachment avoidance, between-group analyses identified a significant main effect of treatment (F(1,76) = 3.70, p = .03, ŋ² = .09) (but no treatment x session interaction: F(2,76) = .27, p = .38, ŋ² = .01), indicating that across assessment sessions, pre-to-post improvements in attachment avoidance were significantly larger in the OT compared to the PL group (see Fig. 2 and Table 2 and for the effect sizes of between-group differences separately for each session). Within-group analyses confirmed that attachment avoidance scores were significantly reduced (compared to baseline) in the OT group at session T1 (immediately after treatment: p = .016), T2 (1-month post-treatment; p = .018), and session T3 (1-year post-treatment: p = .05), but not in the PL group (T1: p = .81; T2: p = .73; T3: p = 1.00) (see Table 2 reporting single-sample t tests assessing within-group changes from baseline).

Attachment security

Between-group analyses identified no main effect of treatment F(1,76) = .88, p = .18, ŋ² = .02), nor a treatment × session interaction effect (F(2,76) = 1.08, p = .17, ŋ² = .03), indicating no treatment-specific improvement in attachment security across assessment sessions (see Fig. 2 and Table 2 for the effect sizes of between-group differences separately for each session). Also no significant within-group pre-to-post changes were identified in the OT or PL group separately (see Table 2).

Attachment anxiety

Between-group analyses identified no main effect of treatment (F(1,76) = .25, p = .31, ŋ² = .01), nor a treatment × session interaction effect (F(2,76) = 1.566, p = .10, ŋ² = .04), indicating no treatment-specific improvement in attachment anxiety across assessment sessions (see Fig. 2 and Table 2 and for the effect sizes of between-group differences separately for each session). Also no significant within-group pre-to-post changes were identified in the OT or PL group separately (see Table 2).

Secondary outcome—Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment

Between-group analyses showed that pre-to-post changes in self-reported secure attachment toward peers and parents were not significantly larger in the OT compared to the PL group (no main effects of treatment: peers: F(1,76) = .20, p = .33, ŋ² = .01; mother: F(1,74) = .57, p = .23, ŋ² = .02; father: F(1,74) = .78, p = .19, ŋ² = .02; nor treatment × session interaction effects: peers: F(2,76) = 1.08, p = .17, ŋ² = .03; mother: F(2,74) = .32, p = .36, ŋ² = .01; father: F(2,74) = .03, p = .49, ŋ² = .00) (see Additional file 1: Figure S2 and Table 2 for the effect sizes of between-group differences separately for each session). Also no significant within-group pre-to-post changes were identified in the OT or PL group separately (see Table 2).

Secondary outcome—World Health Organization Quality of Life–Bref

Between-group analyses showed that pre-to-post changes in self-reported quality of life were not significantly larger in the OT, compared to the PL group (no main effect of treatment: F(1,74) = .77, p = .19, ŋ² = .02, nor a treatment x session interaction effect: F(2,74) = .96, p = .19, ŋ² = .03) (see Additional file 1: Figure S2 and Table 2 for the effect sizes of between-group differences separately for each session). Also, no significant within-group pre-to-post changes were identified in the OT or PL group separately (see Table 2).

Screening of changes in mood and side effects

As listed in detail in Additional file 1: Table S2, only minimal, non-treatment specific side effects were reported.

In terms of changes in mood as assessed with the Profile of Mood states (POMS), between-group analyses identified a significant main effect of treatment for the mood state “vigor” (F(1,76) = 4.09, p = .03, ŋ² = .10) (but no treatment × session interaction: F(2,76) = .04, p = .96, ŋ² = .001), indicating that across assessment sessions, self-reports of “vigor” (feeling “energetic,” “active,” “lively”) were significantly higher in the OT group compared to the PL group (see Table 2 for the effect sizes of between-group differences separately for each session). While no significant pre-to-post changes were evident within the OT group, the PL group showed a significant reduction (compared to baseline) in self-reported vigor at session T1 (p = .002) (see Table 2 reporting single-sample t tests assessing within-group changes from baseline).

No treatment-specific changes were identified for the other mood states (tension, anger, depression, fatigue) (see Table 2 and Additional file 1: Figure S1), although note that significant reductions (compared to baseline) in feelings of tension and fatigue were reported both in the OT group and in the PL group (see Table 2 reporting single-sample t-tests assessing within-group changes from baseline).

Associations between ASD characteristics and attachment characteristics

Taken together, treatment-specific effects of a 4-week OT treatment were most pronounced in terms of improvements in repetitive behaviors (RBS-R) and perceived attachment avoidance (SAAM). Here, we specifically explored whether and how the quantitative autism characteristics (SRS-A and RBS-R) (assessed at baseline) were associated with the adopted attachment characteristics (SAAM and IPPA). We additionally explored whether individuals with ASD displayed more impairments in attachment, when their baseline behavioral characterizations were compared to those previously obtained from a sample of neurotypical individuals (n = 40, mean age = 21.1, S.D. = 2.6) (data adopted from [17]).

Higher self-reported SRS-A scores (at baseline) (more impairment in social responsiveness) were significantly associated with lower perceived secure attachment (IPPA) towards peers (r = − .55, p < .001), mother (r = − .51, p = .001) and father (r = − .34, p = .034) and with higher perceived attachment avoidance (SAAM) (r = .38, p = .018), but not with other reports of attachment characteristics (security: r = − .26, p = .12; anxiety: r = .08, p = .63). Further, higher scores on the RBS-R (more frequent and/or severe repetitive and restricted behaviors) were significantly associated with lower perceived secure attachment (IPPA) toward the mother (r = − .56, p < .001), but not the father (r = − .31; p = .056) or peers (r = − .22, p = .19). Finally, higher scores on the RBS-R were also significantly associated with higher perceived attachment avoidance (r = .50, p = .002), but not with other reports of attachment characteristics (security: r = − .11, p = .50; anxiety: r = − .02, p = .89).

Notably, exploratory analyses also showed that as a group, the individuals with ASD reported significantly higher perceived attachment avoidance (t(76) = − 2.51, p = .014), lower attachment security (t(76) = 2.48, p = .015), and a trend toward lower perceived secure attachment toward peers (IPPA) (t(76) = 1.74, p = .085), when compared to a neurotypical sample of adult men (data obtained from [17]) (Additional file 1: Table S4).

Hormone Widely Used as an Autism Treatment Shows No Benefit

Contact

DURHAM, N.C. – Oxytocin, a naturally occurring hormone that acts as a chemical messenger in the brain, showed no evidence of helping children with autism gain social skills, according to a large national study appearing Oct. 13 in the New England Journal of Medicine.

While disappointing for those holding hope that oxytocin could benefit children with autism, the long-awaited finding provides clarity for a drug that has shown mixed outcomes in smaller, less robust studies.

“There was a great deal of hope this drug would be effective,” said the study’s principal investigator and lead author, Linmarie Sikich, M.D., associate consulting professor in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at Duke University School of Medicine. “All of us on the study team were hugely disappointed, but oxytocin does not appear to change social function of people with autism.”

Oxytocin is typically used to induce labor, but because of its activity in the brain, it has been investigated as a treatment for autism. Evidence has been conflicting, with several smaller studies suggesting it improved social and cognitive function among some children with autism, while other studies showed no benefit. 

Sikich and colleagues, including senior author Jeremy Veenstra-VanderWeele, M.D., of New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, designed the multi-site trial to provide the best evidence yet about whether oxytocin was a safe and effective treatment for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The research team enrolled 290 children ages 3-17, stratified by age and the severity of their autism symptoms. The children were randomized in similar, equal-sized groups to receive oxytocin or a placebo via a daily nasal spray over 24 weeks.

The study aimed to see if the regimen of oxytocin would have a measurable impact on the children’s social abilities based on screenings and assessments at the start of the trial, midway through and at the end. Both researchers and the children’s parents provided assessments using standard analytic tools for autism.

While the oxytocin was well tolerated and had few side effects, it showed no significant benefit among the group of children who received it compared to those who received the placebo.

“Thousands of children with autism spectrum disorder were prescribed intranasal oxytocin before it was adequately tested,” Veenstra-VanderWeele said. “Thankfully, our data show that it is safe. Unfortunately, it is no better than placebo when used daily for months. These results indicate that clinicians and families should insist that there is strong evidence for the safety and benefit of new treatments before they are provided to patients in the clinic.”

Sikich said no further study is likely of oxytocin, given the negative findings: “Our consensus as investigators is that there is no evidence in this large study that is strong enough to justify more investigation of oxytocin as a treatment for autism spectrum disorders.”

In addition to Sikich and Veenstra-VanderWeele, study authors include Alexander Kolevzon,  Bryan H. King, Christopher J. McDougle, Kevin B. Sanders, Soo-Jeong Kim, Marina Spanos, Tara Chandrasekhar, Pilar Trelles, Carol M. Rockhill, Michelle L. Palumbo, Allyson Witters Cundiff, Alicia Montgomery, Paige Siper, Mendy Minjarez, Lisa A. Nowinski, Sarah Marler, Lauren C. Shuffrey, Cheryl Alderman, Jordana Weissman, Brooke Zappone, Jennifer E. Mullett, Hope Crosson, Natalie Hong, Stephen K. Siecinski, Stephanie N. Giamberardino, Sheng Luo, Lilin She, Manjushri Bhapkar, Russell Dean and Abby Scheer.

The study received funding from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (U01HD073984) and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (UL1TR002489).

What is oxytocin and how does it affect us :: Health :: RBC Style

In October 2020, new research results were published on the effect of oxytocin on our mood, relationships with partners, friends and colleagues. American scientists have found that, among other things, he can provoke suspicion, avoidance of contact and envy.

The article was checked and commented by Nargis Jamolova, obstetrician-gynecologist, candidate of medical sciences.

What exactly is known about oxytocin?

The “cuddle hormone” primarily performs clear physiological functions. Its main task is to promote procreation. Oxytocin is produced in humans and animals, but the strength of its action can vary depending on genetics. Oxford University studies have shown that the substance is released into the bloodstream during orgasm in both men and women. In the first case, the hormone promotes the rapid movement of sperm.In the second, it stimulates muscle contractions, helping male sex hormones to reach their ultimate goal, the ovum [1].

Nine months later, oxytocin triggers contractions. In particular, it stimulates uterine contractions. That is why doctors can inject it into a woman during childbirth. For the same reason, an increased level of the hormone is dangerous in the early stages of pregnancy. In the future, oxytocin plays an important role in the lactation process, and also helps to establish a psychological bond between mother and child.One way or another, the hormone is really associated with processes that cause pleasant emotions.

© Piya Sarutnuwat / EyeEm / Getty

Effect of oxytocin on physical health

Studies over the past ten years show that the presence of oxytocin in the blood can have a positive effect on human health.Biologists from Ohio University believe that the hormone promotes faster healing of wounds [2]. The experiment involved 37 couples. With their consent, the scientists made small cuts in the skin of these people. During the entire healing time of the scratch, the doctors measured the level of oxytocin in the blood plasma. At the same time, the beloved maintained their usual relationship: they hugged, kissed, quarreled. It turned out that the rate at which the subjects got better depended on the amount of the hormone in the body. Indirectly, these data confirm the fact that positive contacts with loved ones can directly affect health.

An unexpected experiment carried out on rats by doctors from the University of Pennsylvania also speaks of the benefits of oxytocin [3]. Scientists suggest that the hormone helps digest food better. It is known that stress negatively affects the digestive tract. In particular, strong emotional stress can contribute to the retention of food in the stomach. This effect can lead not only to bloating, discomfort, nausea and diarrhea, but also provoke more serious problems, including ulcers [4].

To counterbalance stress, the researchers decided to use oxytocin as a digestive tract stimulant. They injected rats with different doses of the substance into the brain and monitored the reaction of the rodents. As a result, biologists came to the conclusion: the hormone activates the contraction of the stomach muscles, which leads to the speedy digestion of food.

© Varangkana Petchson / EyeEm / Getty

However, it is still too early to treat a sore stomach with hugs.Still, the body of rodents is different from the human. Nevertheless, in the future, scientists plan to continue experiments that may help develop new therapies for stomach diseases.

Is the hug hormone a myth?

As for hugging, according to research from Harvard Medical School, the largest release of the hormone occurs in the body immediately before physical contact. Scientists suggest that emotions of expectation of something good, rather than specific touches, serve as a stimulus [5].

In other words, cuddling does help reduce stress and increase attachment when you have a warm relationship with your partner. But during a period of quarrels and resentment, oxytocin is unlikely to help.

Still from the movie “Marriage Story”

© kinopoisk.ru

Until recently, it was believed that the hormone promotes the establishment of social bonds, helps us to trust each other more [6], and is also able to maintain monogamy in marriage.However, recent data show that not everything is so simple and the appointment of the hormone is much more difficult than simply maintaining a warm relationship.

Many conclusions about the properties of oxytocin have been drawn from experiments with vole mice. These rodents remain loyal to their partners throughout their lives and are able to show empathy for each other. In particular, during times of stress, animals try to calm their loved ones. As soon as scientists block oxytocin, laboratory animals immediately lost interest in their other halves [7].

Tests of the monogamy hormone theory in humans have shown similar results.

For example, an article published in 2012 in the journal Natural Science claims that married men who were injected with oxytocin with a nasal spray tried to maintain an emotional distance from attractive unfamiliar women, in contrast to those who received placebo [8] …

However, already in 2018, new data appeared. It turned out that the hormone that entered the body through the nose did not always enter the brain and influenced the adoption of such decisions [9].

According to other studies, the substance caused opposite emotions in representatives of different sexes. If in men it awakened selfishness and the desire for rivalry, then in women, on the contrary, empathy and altruism [10].

Recent studies prove that a hormone is, first of all, a regulator that maintains the stable functioning of the body [11].

Molecular model of the hormone oxytocin

© KATERYNA KON / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Getty

Effect of oxytocin on psychological health

Most of the hormone is produced in the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates the endocrine system.All positive feelings associated with it appear here.

However, oxytocin is also produced by another part of the brain – the supporting nucleus of the marginal stripe. This compartment is not yet fully understood, but there are suggestions that it is there that anxiety disorders, depression and addictions are formed. Until recently, the reasons for the appearance of oxytocin in this part of the brain were unknown. Experiments on mice have shown that it is in the supporting nucleus that oxytocin provokes anxiety as well as envy [12]. Here it is produced due to prolonged stress.At the same time, fleeting emotional outbursts did not affect the release of oxytocin.

Reactions to the hormone, as in the case of the hypothalamus, were more active in females [13]. Thus, it is likely that new research will shed light on the study and treatment of anxiety disorders, which are more common in women [14].

Expert commentary

Nargis Jamolova,
obstetrician-gynecologist, candidate of medical sciences, doctor of ultrasound diagnostics

Oxytocin is a hormone of the sex group, which is predominantly produced in the female body.However, it is synthesized in small quantities in men in the hypothalamus. Like any other hormone, it works in tandem with receptors. This means that if there are few receptors for oxytocin on the cells, then no matter how much it is in the body, the effect will be small. Receptors, like any other protein, are encoded in genes.

Long-term studies have shown that the activity of genes for oxytocin receptors in children depends on maternal care. This factor helps to form the oxytocin system, on which, in turn, the adequate socialization of the child depends.Depression, stress, and fatigue in the mother interfere with the synthesis of this hormone, which can cause muscle contraction and make it difficult for the infant to consume milk.

Oxytocin also regulates the production of the male sex hormone testosterone and promotes its transformation into an active form – dihydrotestosterone. It also reduces the synthesis of cortisol (“stress hormone”) and adrenocorticotropic hormone, which trigger destructive processes in the muscles. That is why it is important to monitor the balance of hormones in the body.An excess of oxytocin negatively affects the adrenal glands, which produce cortisol, so if it is not produced enough, it can lead to a breakdown. The fact is that this hormone is vital. He helps us react to and deal with danger. Thanks to cortisol, a person concentrates better, thinks faster, and glucose is supplied to the blood, which is necessary for the muscles to work.

Excess oxytocin also inhibits the release of testosterone in the body.At the same time, the man’s libido decreases, the level of natural sex hormones and the functionality of the prostate gland normalize.

Why is oxytocin prescribed for men?

Oxytocin has the following effects on the male nervous system:

• elimination of stress development factors;
• getting rid of the critical sensitivity of others;
• decreased sex drive;
• Improved emotional awareness.

Studies of the results of oxytocin therapy have also shown the effectiveness of this hormone in relieving painful symptoms in menopausal women, for headaches and for improving mood in depression.

The “love hormone” has found an unexpected property – Rossiyskaya Gazeta

Oxytocin, nicknamed the “love hormone” for its help in strengthening social bonds, is also able to reduce the manifestation of chronic ringing in the ears.

According to the researchers, oxytocin produces actions in the brain and ear, which, apparently, provide almost instant relief, foreign media write.

The beneficial effect of oxytocin was tested by scientists at the Federal University of São Paulo in Brazil on 17 elderly patients with tinnitus.

One of the volunteers was given oxytocin as a nasal spray, while others were given a “placebo” in the nose. Participants were asked to rate the severity of the symptoms 30 minutes thereafter and then again 24 hours later.

Observations have shown that volunteers given oxytocin reported a significant reduction in tinnitus compared to the placebo group. For some, the noise disappeared altogether or no longer caused suffering. Oxytocin had no side effects.

Scientists cannot yet name the exact mechanism of action of oxytocin. Perhaps the hormone’s effect is related to the regulation of fluid in the inner ear and the production of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain.

Although the effects of oxytocin appear to be safe, the long-term effects of oxytocin are not yet known, the researchers emphasize.According to them, new, large-scale research is needed.

According to scientific evidence, oxytocin is produced by the hypothalamus. It is known that the hormone helps to strengthen love and family ties between loved ones. Thus, it helps to form an emotional bond between a mother and her child, and also strengthens the bond between sexual partners. Previous research has shown that oxytocin affects social activity and interactions. It is believed to lower blood pressure, relieve stress and anxiety.

We will remind, earlier scientists on the basis of oxytocin even created the so-called “vaccine against male infidelity” – a drug that enhances monogamy in representatives of the strong half of humanity. By stimulating the brain’s “pleasure center”, oxytocin increases attraction and attraction to a partner, the researchers said.

90,000 Oxytocin improves self-control in overweight men

Staff at Massachusetts General Hospital reported last year that oxytocin nasal spray could reduce fat and calorie intake without affecting appetite.Now at the annual meeting of the Society of Endocrinologists, the researchers presented a paper on the possible mechanism of action of the drug.

Ten men aged 23-43 with overweight and obesity took part in the study of American scientists (body mass index was 27.7-33.9 kg / m2). It has been found that a single dose of oxytocin nasal spray increases a person’s ability to self-control by influencing impulsive behavior, which is often the cause of overeating.

This property of the drug was discovered after a series of tests using the so-called “stop signals”.In this case, the participant sitting in front of the computer was instructed to press a certain button on the left of the keyboard when a square appeared on the screen, and a button on the right when a triangle appeared. The participants were then instructed not to press any buttons when the audible brake light sounded. Since the signal sounded with some delay after the image appeared on the screen, pressing the button indicated the person’s tendency to impulsive behavior. After receiving oxytocin, participants were less likely to press a button when they shouldn’t.According to the researchers, this suggests that the drug increases self-control.

“This insight into the mechanism of action of oxytocin could help develop new strategies for treating obesity,” said study co-author Franziska Plessow, PhD, professor of medical sciences at Harvard Medical School and researcher at the neuroendocrine department of the State General Hospital. Massachusetts. – The preliminary results in men are quite promising, with no significant side effects observed with the use of oxytocin in the form of a nasal spray.We will continue to work, including planning to study the effect of oxytocin on overweight women. ”

Oxytocin in the form of a nasal spray is a synthetic preparation with the hormone oxytocin in its composition. It has already been approved for use in Europe and is undergoing clinical trials in the United States.

instructions for use, analogs, composition, indications

Induction and stimulation of labor.
Oxytocin should not be given within 6 hours of using vaginal prostaglandins.
The drug is administered by intravenous drip infusion, preferably with a variable rate infusion pump. For drip infusion, it is recommended to dissolve 5 IU of Oxytocin-Biolek in 500 ml of physiological electrolyte solution (for example, sodium chloride 0.9%). For patients for whom sodium chloride infusion is contraindicated, 5% dextrose solution can be used as a solvent (see section “Precautions”). To ensure even mixing before use, the container with the solution should be turned upside down several times.
The initial infusion rate should be 1-4 milliunits / min (2-8 drops / min). The speed can be gradually increased by no more than 1-2 milliunits / min at intervals of at least 20 minutes, until contractile activity is achieved, corresponding to normal childbirth. In full-term pregnancies, such reductions can be achieved with an infusion rate of less than 10 mU / min (20 drops / min), the recommended maximum rate is 20 mU / min (40 drops / min).In cases where a higher infusion rate may be required, for example, with intrauterine fetal death or with induction of labor earlier in pregnancy, when the uterus is less sensitive to oxytocin, it is recommended to use a more concentrated solution of oxytocin, for example, 10 IU in 500 ml.
When using an infusion pump that can deliver lower volumes than a drip, the concentration required to obtain the correct dose of oxytocin should be calculated based on the pump specification.
During the infusion, the frequency, strength and duration of uterine contractions of the woman in labor and the fetal heart rate should be carefully monitored. After reaching a sufficient level of uterine activity (3-4 contractions every 10 minutes), the infusion rate can be reduced. In case of uterine hyperstimulation and / or fetal distress, the infusion should be stopped immediately.
If, after infusion of oxytocin at a dose of 5 IU, a patient with a full-term pregnancy or in a term close to term cannot achieve regular labor, it is recommended to stop trying to induce labor.The attempt can be repeated the next day, starting again with an infusion rate of 1-4 milliunits / min (see section “Contraindications”).
Incomplete, unavoidable, failed abortion
Intravenous infusion 5 IU (IU of oxytocin diluted in physiological electrolyte solution, administered by intravenous drip over 5 minutes, or preferably using a variable speed infusion pump), if necessary, subsequently infuse at a rate of 20-40 mU / min …
Ke Smoke section
Intravenous infusion 5 IU (5 IU of oxytocin diluted in saline electrolyte solution, given by intravenous drip, or preferably with a variable rate infusion pump, over 5 minutes, or preferably with a variable rate infusion pump, in within 5 minutes) immediately after removing the child.
Prevention of postpartum uterine bleeding
The usual dose is 5 IU by intravenous infusion (5 IU of oxytocin diluted in physiological electrolyte solution, given by intravenous drip, or preferably with a variable rate infusion pump, over 5 minutes) after placenta has separated.For women who have received oxytocin to induce or induce labor, the infusion should be continued at an increased rate during the third stage of labor and for the next few hours after it ends.
Treatment after delivery uterine bleeding
Intravenous infusion of 5 IU (5 IU of oxytocin diluted in saline electrolyte solution, administered by intravenous drip infusion, or preferably with a variable rate infusion pump for 5 minutes), then in severe cases, infusion of a solution containing 5- 20 IU of oxytocin in 500 ml of electrolyte solvent, at a rate necessary to control uterine atony.
Method of administration – intravenous infusion.
Special groups
Renal failure
Studies in patients with renal impairment have not been conducted.
Liver failure
Studies in patients with hepatic impairment have not been conducted.
90 130 Children
Studies on the use of the drug in the pediatric population have not been conducted.
Elderly
Studies on the use of the drug in persons aged 65 years and older have not been conducted.

Press-room – IBCh RAS

Announcements →

• science news In memory of Alexander Georgievich Petrenko
  December 6

  The FEBS Journal has published an obituary dedicated to our colleague, the head of the Laboratory of Receptor Cell Biology, the remarkable scientist Alexander Georgievich Petrenko, who died from COVID-19 in May 2021. The publication covers the scientific career of Alexander Petrenko, which lasted more than 4 decades.For more details on the publication, please follow the link: https://febs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/febs.16282

• science news IBCH RAS mourns passing of Richard Lerner
  December 6

  An outstanding scientist, director and president of the Scripps Research Institute (from 1987 to 2012), founding director of the Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, a member of the International Advisory Board of the IBCh RAS and a laureate of many international awards, Professor Richard Lerner passed away on December 2, 2021 at the age of 83.He made a huge contribution to the development of biological and medical sciences. The staff and administration of the IBCh RAS express their sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Richard Lerner.

• science news In vivo dynamics of acidosis and oxidative stress in the acute phase of an ischemic stroke
  November 30

  The team of the Department of metabolism and redox biology of the Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry in collaboration with colleagues from the Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Lomonosov Moscow State University and several other institutes have developed a technology that allows real time recording of intracellular metabolic processes in vivo .On the model of ischemic stroke in rodents, the new data were obtained on changes occurring in neurons during the development of pathology.

• science news Barnase * Barstar-guided two-step targeting approach for drug delivery to tumor cells in vivo
  November 19

  To reduce side effects in the process of oncotherapy, it seems promising to use two-step targeting delivery of active agents, or pre-targeting: at the first stage, a non-toxic targeting module (also including antibody or non- immunoglobulin scaffolds) is selectively delivered to a cell of a certain molecular profile, and at the second stage, a cytotoxic agent capable of specifically interacting with the first module is administrated into the organism.

• science news Antigen-specific stimulation and expansion of CAR-T cells using membrane vesicles as target cell surrogates
  November 11

  Development of CAR-T therapy led to immediate success in the treatment of B cell leukemia. Manufacturing of therapy-competent functional CAR-T cells needs robust protocols for ex vivo / in vitro expansion of modified T-cells. In this work, a team of scientists from the IBCh RAS in collaboration with a group of scientists from Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center and colleagues from the Faculty of Biology of Moscow State University have created a new technology for the expansion of CAR T cells using artificial vesicles carrying surface tumor antigens.This approach will allow in the future to obtain CAR T-cells with improved functional properties and to minimize the level of premature “exhaustion” of the CAR T-cell population.

• science news Development of single-domain inhibitory antibodies targeting the ErbB3 receptor for cancer therapy
  November 11

  The human ErbB3 receptor is an important pharmacological target in the treatment of various types of cancer. A variety of anti-ErbB3 monoclonal antibodies are currently in development and are classic immunoglobulins.However, the search for new sources of antibodies or nanoantibodies consisting only of the heavy chain is being conducted more and more actively. Thus, in this work, a team of scientists from the Laboratory of Biocatalysis of the IBCh RAS, together with colleagues from the Laboratory of Renewable Energy Sources of the Academic University discovered a group of new single-domain llama antibodies targeting the extracellular domain of ErbB3 using the phage display method. It was found that the single-domain antibodies are not only highly affine for various receptor epitopes, but also have an inhibitory effect on the growth of tumor cells expressing ErbB3.

• science news Engineered Removal of PD-1 From the Surface of CD19 CAR-T Cells Results in Increased Activation and Diminished Survival
  November 8

  CAR-T cell therapy is the most advanced way to treat therapy resistant hematologic cancers, in particular B cell lymphomas and leukemias. T cells equipped ex vivo with chimeric receptor recognize target tumor cells and kill them. CAR-T cells that recognize CD19 marker of B cells (CD19 CAR-T) are considered the gold standard of CAR-T therapy and are approved by the FDA.But in some cases, CD19 CAR-T cell therapy fails due to immune suppressive microenvironment.

• science news DARPin_9-29-Targeted Gold Nanorods Selectively Suppress HER2-Positive Tumor Growth in Mice
  November 8

  Breast cancer is one of the most common cancer among women. According to the WHO, in 2020, over 2.2 million cases of this disease were registered worldwide. High level of HER2, a tyrosine kinase receptor, is associated with a more aggressive clinical behavior and poor prognosis for breast cancer patients.

• science news First crystal structure of bacterial oligopeptidase B in an intermediate state: the roles of the hinge region modification and spermine
  October 27

  Oligopeptidase B (OpB) is a two-domain serine peptidase with trypsin-like substrate specificity. OpB belongs to the prolyl oligopeptidase (POP) family and are found only in bacteria and protozoa. It is known that OpB are pathogenesis factors of protozoan infections and protect bacterial cells from a number of antimicrobial peptides.Nevertheless, they are the least studied representatives of POP, especially bacterial OpB, for which there was a complete lack of structural information. The researches from IBC RAS ​​together with those of NRC Kurchatov Institute and the IBOC of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus managed to obtain crystal structures of bacterial OpB from Serratia proteomaculans (PSP) with a modified hinge region.

• science news Mambalgin-2 inhibits growth, migration, and invasion of metastatic melanoma cells by targeting the channels containing an asic1a subunit whose up-regulation correlates with poor survival prognosis
  October 16

  Melanoma is aggressive cancer characterized by acidification of extracellular environment.Scientists from the Laboratory of bioengineering of neuromodulators and neuroreceptors IBCh RAS together with colleages from NN Blokhin NMRCO showed for the first time that extracellular media acidification increases proliferation, migration, and invasion of patient-derived metastatic melanoma cells and up-regulates cell-surface expression of acid sensitive channels containing the ASIC1a, α-ENaC, and γ-ENaC subunits. No influence of media acidification on these processes was found in normal keratinocytes.

• science news Lipids 2021 Conference
  October 11–13 (This event is over)

  Lipids 2021 Conference, October 11-13, 2021, IBCH RAS, Moscow

• ys-ad Gene therapy 2.0: AAV beyond monogenic gene correction
  June 11–23 (This event is over)

  Founding and managing partner of 4BIO Capital – Dmitry Kuzmin – will make a presentation in conference room 22 June 2022 at 15:00

• science news “Molecular Brain” seminar dedicated to Eugene Grishin’s 75th anniversary
  April 27 (This event is over)

  The open seminar of the Department of Molecular Neurobiology will take place on April 27 at 11:00 in the Great Assembly Hall.The program includes presentations by colleagues, students, friends and associates of Eugene Grishin. We cordially invite everyone interested in modern work in the field of toxins, ion channels and neurobiology! Live broadcast in Zoom.

• conferences International School “Molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases”
  November 26, 2020 (This event is over)

  Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT) invites you to take part in the International school for young scientists “Molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases”, which will be held on November 26, 2020 online .

• science news Lecture by Director-General of the ICGEB Lawrence Banks “Human Papillomaviruses: From Infectious Entry to Malignancy”
  January 27, 2020 (This event is over)

  ICGEB Director-General Group Leader Lawrence Banks will deliver a lecture entitled “Human Papillomaviruses: From Infectious Entry to Malignancy”.

  Date and time: Mon 27 January 2020 14:00. Location: Small conference hall at 3rd floor BON IBCh.

• science news LIGHTS ON: Molecular Imaging of disease dynamics in vivo
  September 27 – October 11, 2019 (This event is over)

  Abhijit De PhD

  Scientific Officer ‘F’ and Principal Investigator

  Head, Molecular Functional Imaging Lab

  Advanced Center of Training Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Center, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, India.

• science news Seminar “Molecular Brain”: Anton Maximov
  October 8, 2019 (This event is over)

  The seminar will be held on the 8th of October at 3 pm in the Small lecture hall (3rd floor, BON, IBCh). Everyone is welcome!

• conferences II Joint Life Sciences Forum: VI Russian Congress on Biochemistry and IX Russian Symposium “Proteins and Peptides”
  October 1–6, 2019 (This event is over)

  Dear Colleagues! We are pleasure to invite you to participate the VI Russian Congress on Biochemistry, which will be held in Sochi, Russia (Dagomys Hotel) on October 1-6, 2019.

• science news Lecture by Prof. Yibo Wang “Drug Discovery Targeting Transmembrane Protein-Protein Interactions”
  August 26, 2019 (This event is over)

  Prof. Yibo Wang from the Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry will deliver a lecture entitled “Drug Discovery Targeting Transmembrane Protein-Protein Interactions.” Date and time: Mon 26 August 2019 11:30. Location: Conference hall at 5th floor BON IBCh.

• conferences 12th INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE “BIOCATALYSIS.FUNDAMENTALS & APPLICATIONS “” BIOCATALYSIS-2019 ”
  June 24–28, 2019 (This event is over)

  Dear colleagues,
  The Lomonosov Moscow State University and RAS institutes, including IBCH RAS, is planning to convene a traditional biannual 12 th International Conference “BIOCATALYSIS-2019” in June, 24–28, 2019. Conference will be convened on board a ship cruising via the route St. Petersburg – Valaam – Kizhi – St. Petersburg.

  More info is available at http://bc2019.org/.

Oxytocin 10 UNITS 100 ml

Composition and release form.Solution for injection containing 1 ml of 5 IU or 10 IU of oxytocin – a synthetic analogue of the polypeptide hormone of the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. In appearance it is a clear, colorless liquid. Produced in glass bottles of 20 ml and 100 ml.

Pharmaceutical action. Increases tone and enhances the contractions of the smooth muscles of the uterus. It also causes a contraction of myoepithelial cells surrounding the alveoli of the mammary gland (which facilitates the movement of milk into the large ducts and milk sinuses), has weak vasopressin-like, antidiuritic properties.

Route of administration and dosage.

The drug is administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly.If intramuscular administration does not give a result or an immediate effect is needed, then intravenous administration of oxytocin is used, which should be injected slowly, previously diluted with saline. If necessary, oxytocin in combination with novocaine is administered epidurally.

Indications. Oxytocin is prescribed to females of agricultural and domestic animals with weak attempts during childbirth, retention of the placenta, uterine bleeding, atony, hypotension and inflammation of the uterus, mastitis, as well as with reflex agalctia.

Side effects. Vomiting, tachycardia, hypoxia and fetal death, arterial hypotension, premature placental abruption. In case of an overdose, discoordinated or excessively strong labor is possible. A significant overdose causes hyperstimulation of the uterus, which can lead to contractures or even rupture, bleeding after childbirth, and a decrease in fetal heart rate.

Contraindications. Oxytocin is contraindicated in pregnant animals, during obstetrics in cases of a large fetus, its deformity, in the wrong position and position.

Special instructions. Livestock products are used without restrictions.

Storage conditions. List B. In a dry, dark place at a temperature of 1-10 degrees. Shelf life is 3 years.

90,000 Love hormone spray improved men’s self-control

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston have found that even a single dose of an oxytocin nasal spray can seriously affect men’s behavior and self-control.The scientists presented this report at the 98th annual meeting of the International Endocrine Society in Boston.

Back in 2014, a group of experts from MGH found that overweight people who used oxytocin spray during clinical trials consumed fewer calories per meal. However, the scientific interpretation of this phenomenon remained unclear: the subjects did not experience a decrease in appetite, so the mechanism of the effect of the hormone oxytocin on eating behavior remained a mystery.Over the past year, the authors of the report conducted long-term observations of ten men, aged 23 to 43, who were overweight and overeating. They regularly underwent the so-called “stop-signal test”, which showed an increase in their level of self-control after injecting oxytocin spray into the nose.

In the course of such a test, the subject first practiced pressing the right button of a special control device if a triangle appeared on the screen, and the left button if a square appeared on the screen in front of him.When a person got used to performing this simple task, the experimenters introduced a “stop-signal” into the task: the volunteer did not have to press the button if, with a slight delay after the appearance of the geometric figure, he heard a sound warning. In such an experience, a person must fight with a natural, habitual impulse: upon seeing a figure, immediately press the button. The test is often used to detect a tendency towards impulsive behavior.

The subjects were divided into two groups daily.Both performed the test 15 minutes after the spray was sprayed into each nostril. However, the members of the first group did receive a dose of the hormone oxytocin, and the men in the second group received a placebo. The next day, the situation was reversed.

As a result, it turned out that the ability to suppress impulsive actions in those who took oxytocin spray was significantly higher. According to scientists, the reduced food intake after receiving a dose of oxytocin is due to the fact that the subjects already suffered from problems with being overweight.They have long deliberately wanted to reduce the amount of food consumed, but they were unable to do so due to low self-control. Every time they saw culinary delicacies, the participants in the experiment could not overcome the irresistible, impulsive desire to eat them. They were unable to control themselves and defeat the destructive attraction to health. However, after taking the oxytocin spray, their level of self-control temporarily increased, which helped the subjects to better control themselves and limit the amount of food they consumed.

Work on testing the effect of oxytocin spray was carried out by the authors from MGH on volunteers, since the US pharmacological market is extremely closed and the sale of oxytocin spray is not allowed there. At the same time, injections of similar composition are approved for sale, however, they are not very popular, since they require an injection for injection. In the EU and several other countries of the world, oxytocin sprays are allowed and available in pharmacies, including for scientific experiments. However, until now, no data on their effect on self-control have appeared in the scientific literature.

The hormone oxytocin is produced in the hypothalamus and plays an important role in many aspects of behavior. First of all, it is important for childbirth and the postpartum period, as it contributes to the contraction of smooth muscles – facilitating and accelerating the birth of a child, increasing milk flow, facilitating the transport of sperm to the uterus. A recent study in mice showed that oxytocin is able to modulate the brain, including certain sensory systems, increasing the sensitivity to certain signals (crying and crying of babies).However, the most interesting are the psychotropic functions of oxytocin, such as enhancing affiliation behavior: creating attachment between mother and child, establishing trusting and benevolent relationships between people.