Template:Oxytocin table

From Embryology
About Oxytocin Hormone
Structure Function
  • polypeptide hormone 9 amino acids
  • first peptide hormone to be sequenced and synthesized (1953).
  • single gene arose by duplication of vasopressin gene
    • vasopressin is 9 amino acid hormone constricts blood vessels and retain body water.
  • hormone degraded by GIT.
  • hormone cannot pass the blood-brain barrier.
  • Birth - increase in uterine muscle tone and strength of contractions.
  • Lactation - hormone released in response to the baby suckling.
  • stimulates contraction of muscle cells around mammary glands.
  • neural effects
Links: Birth | Hypothalamus | Endocrine | Mammary Gland | Milk | image - Oxytocin receptor pathways