Key Characteristics
- Category: Injectable Peptides
- Purity: >99% Purity
- Molecular Formula: C43H66N12O12S2
- Molecular Weight: 1007.2 g/mol
- Sequence: Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2
Available Sizes
About
Oxytocin is a neuropeptide and hormone best known for its roles in social bonding, sexual reproduction, and childbirth. It also has effects on mood, anxiety, and social behavior.
Mechanism of Action
Oxytocin acts on receptors in the brain and body. In the brain, it modulates social behaviors, trust, empathy, and anxiety. In the body, it is responsible for uterine contractions during labor and milk let-down during breastfeeding. It can also influence cardiovascular and metabolic function.
Key Benefits
- Promotes social bonding and trust
- May reduce anxiety and stress
- Plays a key role in sexual arousal and orgasm
- Can influence mood and feelings of well-being
Clinical Research
Oxytocin is extensively studied for its potential therapeutic use in social anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, and other psychiatric conditions. Intranasal administration is a common research method for targeting its effects in the brain.
Potential Side Effects
Oxytocin is generally safe, especially at research doses. Potential side effects can include temporary changes in heart rate or blood pressure. High doses can cause uterine contractions.
Usage & Dosage
Administered via subcutaneous injection or, more commonly for central effects, via intranasal spray. Dosages vary widely based on the intended application.
Peptide Storage
Best Practices For Storing Peptides
To preserve the integrity of laboratory results, proper storage of peptides is essential. Correct storage practices can maintain peptides for years and guard against contamination, oxidation, and degradation. If the peptides will be used immediately, short-term refrigeration under 4°C (39°F) is generally acceptable. Lyophilized peptides are usually stable at room temperatures for several weeks.
For longer-term storage (several months to years), it is preferable to store peptides in a freezer at -80°C (-112°F). Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and do not use frost-free freezers, as temperatures can fluctuate widely.
Preventing Contamination
To prevent moisture contamination, allow the peptide to come to room temperature before opening its container. Minimize exposure to air; after use, reseal the container under an atmosphere of dry, inert gas (like nitrogen or argon) if possible. Peptides with Cys, Met, or Trp are especially prone to air oxidation.
Storing Peptides In Solution
The shelf life of peptide solutions is far less than that of lyophilized peptides. If peptides must be stored in solution, use sterile buffers at pH 5-6 and separate into aliquots to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Peptide solutions are generally stable for up to 30 days when refrigerated at 4°C (39°F).