NEUROPEPTIDE OXYTOCIN IS ALSO SYNTHESIZED IN THE HEART UNDER BASAL AS WELL AS STRESS CONDITIONS AND FUNCTIONS AS A NEW CARDIOVASCULAR HORMONE
2012
Abstract
Our results contribute to the idea of oxytocin functioning as a cardiovascular hormone. Expression of OTR mRNA and immunohistochemical detection of OTR in all heart compartments indicate that oxytocin system plays an important regulatory role in the cardiovascular system both under basal and stress conditions.
The distribution of oxytocin and its receptors in the heart, and in some cases their colocalization with nuclei are new findings, which can explain some controversial findings like quantitative discrepancy in expression of OTR mRNA and expression of OTR receptor protein. These findings require further studies and it can be expected that they will help to find target structures for therapeutic interventions.