Neural oxytocinergic systems as genomic targets for hormones and as
modulators of hormone-dependent behaviors
by
Cabanac M
Pfaff DW, Ogawa S, Kow LM
Rockefeller University,
New York, NY 10021, USA.
Results Probl Cell Differ 1999; 26:91-105
ABSTRACT
At the molecular level, estradiol turns on the gene
for oxytocin in a subset of paraventricular hypothalamic neurons and turns
on the gene for the oxytocin receptor in other limbic and hypothalamic cell
groups. As a result, oxytocin deposition, whose signal is transduced both
through G alpha (q/11) and Gi to stimulate phosphatidylinositol turnover,
facilitates electrical activity in certain hypothalamic neurons. Consequently,
affiliative behaviors including those closely associated with reproduction--mating
behaviors and parental behaviors--are promoted. One important aspect of
this effect is the preservation of instinctive behaviors associated with
reproduction, in the face of disturbances due to mild stress.
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Oxytocin
Monogamy
Vasopressin
Cuddle hormone
The power of love
Oxytocin and voles
Oxytocin and drugs
Oxytocin: structure
Oxytocin and women
Oxytocin and addiction
Hyper-reactive HPA rats
The evolution of emotion
Oxytocin and opioid tolerance
Oxytocin and social interaction
Is social attachment an addictive disorder?
Oxytocin, addiction and the science of love