Oxytocin

The 28th European Congress of Endocrinology (ECE) starts tomorrow

Oxytocin linked to group competition

A new study by researchers at UZH's Institute of Evolutionary Medicine found that oxytocin levels increase during football matches, particularly against familiar rivals. The study suggests that oxytocin plays a key role in team dynamics and group boundaries, potentially promoting cooperation and cohesion.

World Hormone Day 2026

The European Society of Endocrinology organizes World Hormone Day to educate the public about hormone-related health issues. Global endocrine disorders affect millions worldwide, emphasizing the need for proper hormone balance.

Scientists discover a key mechanism regulating how oxytocin is released in the mouse brain

Researchers have identified a molecular mechanism that regulates the slow and sustained release of oxytocin within the brain, which is essential for modulating social interactions. This finding provides new insights into how hormonal signaling is regulated in the brain and opens avenues for research into neuropsychiatric disorders.

Synthetic oxytocin may prevent anxiety caused by social stress, according to a study in an animal model

A study published in Progress in Neurobiology found that synthetic oxytocin carbetocin can prevent anxiety-related behaviors in laboratory rats exposed to social stress. The researchers observed that carbetocin had a preventive effect on anxiety without having direct anxiolytic effects.

Maternal perinatal depression may increase the risk of autistic-related traits in girls

A large-scale Japanese cohort study and mouse experiments reveal that maternal perinatal depression increases autistic-related traits in toddlers, with a particularly strong impact on girls. The findings suggest a sex-specific neurobiological pathway underlying these effects.

Hair oxytocin levels may reflect mother–child emotional bond, BGU study finds

A new study suggests that hair oxytocin levels can reflect the emotional connection between parents and young children. Higher maternal oxytocin levels were associated with higher-quality emotional interaction between mother and child, while children's hair oxytocin levels were higher than those of their mothers.

Using rare sugars to address alcoholism

A new protocol models alcoholism in mice and shows that stimulating the FGF21-oxytocin-dopamine system with rare sugars can reduce alcohol consumption. The researchers believe that this system may play a role in regulating subconscious information processing, leading to effective dietary therapy for reducing over-drinking.

SwRI, Trinity University collaborate to advance hormonal nasal spray to treat PTSD

Researchers are formulating and evaluating an intranasal oxytocin delivery system to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The project aims to enhance the efficacy and palatability of existing treatments, expanding on prior research that explored using oxytocin to treat alcoholism.

Marriage, emotional support may protect against obesity through brain-gut connection, study finds

A new study published in Gut Microbes reveals that married individuals with higher perceived emotional support have a lower body mass index and fewer food addiction behaviors. The study found that oxytocin pathways linking the brain, gut microbiome, and eating behaviors play a crucial role in shaping obesity risk.

European Society of Endocrinology leads global call to raise awareness of hormone health on World Hormone Day 2026

The European Society of Endocrinology is launching a new campaign to raise awareness about the importance of hormone health. The #BecauseHormonesMatter initiative aims to improve public understanding of hormones and promote practical steps for better hormone health, following the success of last year's campaign.

Intranasal oxytocin and physical intimacy for dermatological wound healing and neuroendocrine stress

A study found that intimate physical contact reduces cortisol responses, while oxytocin administration promotes wound healing. This integration of relationship dynamics and neurohormonal modulation may lead to future interventions for improved health and recovery.

New EndoCompass Research Roadmap calls for coordinated investment to tackle Europe’s hormone health challenge

The European Society of Endocrinology has released the EndoCompass Research Roadmap, a major new initiative to align research efforts and improve funding strategies for hormone-related health challenges. The roadmap identifies specific research needs across eight endocrine specialties and five cross-cutting areas.

MDMA psychiatric applications synthesized: Comprehensive review examines PTSD treatment and emerging therapeutic indications

The review synthesizes clinical evidence on MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorder, eating disorders, and existential distress. It identifies consistent patterns across diverse clinical applications and highlights the therapeutic potential of MDMA, including its oxytocin-mediated ...

Sex-specific effects found in new anti-aging therapy for elderly mice

Researchers found that a combination of oxytocin and an Alk5 inhibitor significantly extended the lifespan and healthspan of frail, elderly male mice, but not female mice. This dual-drug approach reduced chronic inflammation and tissue damage, leading to improved physical endurance and memory in males.

Oxytocin-mediated empathy constrains “free-riding” and stabilizes reciprocal cooperation in rats

Researchers found oxytocin release in the orbitofrontal cortex is linked to empathetic responses and stabilizes reciprocal cooperation in rats. Oxytocin-deficient rats exhibited increased 'free-riding' behavior, suggesting a key internal mechanism in cooperative behavior.

Storing breast milk for specific times of day could support babies’ circadian rhythm

Researchers found that breast milk components like melatonin and cortisol vary over the course of the day. Labeling expressed milk as 'morning,' 'afternoon,' or 'evening' could help align feeding times with circadian signals, supporting infant sleep and immune development.

Why oxytocin treatments for social behavior are inconsistent

A study by Steve Chang explores how oxytocin influences brain activity to shape social behavior in rhesus monkeys. The researchers found that oxytocin increased activity in the basolateral amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex when monkeys were socially motivated, maintaining beneficial decisions and social task behavior.

How tickling builds trust: Scientists identify oxytocin’s role in human-rat bonding

Researchers found that repeated tickling increases oxytocin receptor expression in a rat brain region, mediating social bond formation across species. Pleasant tactile stimulation drives affinity-like behavior, indicating the formation of social bonds.

Couple satisfaction linked to fewer cognitive issues with chemo

A study found that satisfying intimate relationships and general social support can reduce cognitive problems experienced by breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The research suggests that couples therapy could be a helpful option for partnered patients, while oxytocin levels decreased significantly during treatment.

Rats are more motivated to help their friends

Researchers found that rats are more likely to aid distressed peers if they have previous positive social interactions with them. Helper rats showed increased activity in brain regions associated with empathy and motivation compared to less helpful rats. Oxytocin signaling may play a role in motivating rats to care for others.

Mice exhibit altruistic rescue behavior driven by oxytocin

Researchers have found that mice can instinctively exhibit rescue-like behavior toward anesthetized conspecifics without prior training or external rewards. Oxytocin neurons in the paraventricular nucleus are activated when detecting distress signals, releasing OXT and coordinating emotional and motor responses.

How changes in lemur brains made some mean girls nice

Researchers found that oxytocin receptors were more abundant in egalitarian lemur species, contributing to reduced aggression and increased harmony. The findings could shed light on the role of hormones in shaping behavior in humans and other animals.

Dance your stress away: New research unveils the secrets of movement in stress management

A new study reveals that dance can facilitate emotional expression and foster social bonds, creating a powerful buffer against stress. By incorporating dance into weekly routines, individuals can enhance their resilience and improve overall wellbeing.

Oxytocin system of breastfeeding affected in mothers with postnatal depression

A new study by UCL researchers found that the oxytocin system is affected in breastfeeding mothers with postnatal depression. Oxytocin levels in breast milk were reduced in mothers experiencing depression after using a nasal spray containing the hormone.

Findings may advance understanding of infertility in mothers

A new study in rodents reveals that oxytocin can delay an embryo's development for days to weeks after conception, a phenomenon known as diapause. This finding may offer new insights into pregnancy and fertility issues faced by humans.

A familiar face at childbirth makes a difference

A Dartmouth-led study reveals that pregnant individuals with no emotional support during childbirth experience higher levels of perceived stress, comparable to a C-section delivery. The research highlights the importance of access to emotional support in reducing stress and improving maternal and child outcomes.

Neuroscience leader reveals oxytocin's crucial role beyond the 'love hormone' label

Neuroscientist Inga Neumann discusses groundbreaking research on oxytocin, a neuropeptide that shapes social behavior and emotional responses. Her work has significant implications for treating social anxiety disorders and understanding stress resilience.

Language used by mothers affects oxytocin levels of infants

A new study by UCL researchers found that mothers who regularly describe their child's thoughts and feelings have higher oxytocin levels in infants. The hormone oxytocin plays a crucial role in social relationships and bonding between parents and children.

New oral drug to calm abdominal pain

Researchers have developed a new class of oral painkillers to suppress chronic abdominal pain. The painkillers are based on the peptide hormone oxytocin, which drives childbirth contractions, and work in the colon without crossing into the bloodstream.

"Cuddle hormone" oxytocin may provide pain relief and help curb harmful opioid use

Researchers investigate synthetic oxytocin as a potential pain reducer and addiction curber for susceptible older adults. A two-year study with NIH funding aims to evaluate the effects of oxytocin on acute pain management and opioid use.

How does the brain respond to sleep apnea?

A recent study at the University of Missouri discovered that oxytocin and corticotropin-releasing hormone cause the brainstem to become overactive, leading to hypertension. This finding can help develop targeted drugs to reduce high blood pressure in sleep apnea patients.

Genetic study points to oxytocin as possible treatment for obesity and postnatal depression

A genetic study discovered a gene, TRPC5, associated with obesity, behavioral problems, and postnatal depression in mothers. Oxytocin may alleviate symptoms, suggesting it as a potential treatment for postnatal depression.

Cinnamic acid shows promise for opening a new developmental avenue in hair growth treatment

Researchers at Yokohama National University found that cinnamic acid activates oxytocin receptor expression, increasing hair growth gene expression in human dermal papilla cells. The compound showed a similar hair growth effect to oxytocin, with a 1.25-fold increase in hair shaft-like structures.

Globally, women in labor are overtreated. The consequences are dire

A new analysis reveals that approximately 30-90% of first-time mothers worldwide receive medical augmentation with oxytocin, despite only 10-15% experiencing prolonged labor. This excessive treatment increases the risk of stillbirths, brain damage, and complications for subsequent pregnancies.

Oxytocin: the love hormone that holds the key to better memory

Research reveals oxytocin neurons in mouse brain modulate object recognition memory, with activation boosting long-term memory and implicating Alzheimer's disease. Oxytocin's role in social memory also highlighted, suggesting a potential link to loneliness or limited social engagement.

Brain mechanism teaches mice to avoid bullies

A new study published in Nature found that a distinct area on the underside of the hypothalamus influences longer-lasting avoidance behavior after being defeated. The research suggests that oxytocin plays a key role in this process, binding to receptors on brain cells and signaling danger.

Love scrambles the brain and scientists can now tell us why

A recent study published in Behavioural Sciences found that romantic love changes the way our brains react to our partners, making them the center of our lives. The research, led by ANU and UniSA researchers, sheds light on the mechanisms behind romantic love's evolution.

Research connecting gut bacteria and oxytocin provides a new mechanism for microbiome-promoted health benefits

Researchers have discovered that the gut bacteria Lactobacillus reuteri produces oxytocin, a hormone involved in social behavior and wound healing, in human intestinal tissue. This finding provides a novel explanation for how the microbiome affects distant organs and suggests potential treatments for autism spectrum disorders.

Newfound brain circuit explains why infant cries prompt milk release

A new study in rodents reveals that infant cries prompt the release of oxytocin, a brain chemical controlling breast milk, in mothers. The study shows how sound information travels to the brain, triggering the hormone release, which continues for around five minutes.

'Love hormone' guides young songbirds in choice of 'voice coach'

A new study by Emory University neuroscientists reveals that oxytocin plays a key role in male zebra finches' learning to sing by imitating their elders. The hormone influences young birds' preference for certain 'voice coaches', shedding light on the neural underpinnings of social vocal learning.

Clinically relevant deficiency of the “bonding hormone” oxytocin demonstrated

Researchers have demonstrated a clinically relevant oxytocin deficiency in patients with vasopressin deficiency, which could lead to new therapeutic approaches for conditions like autism.

The brain reacts differently to touch depending on context

Researchers found that oxytocin levels increase when partner touches arm, then decrease with stranger's touch. Brain activity suggests adaptive responses to recent social context.

A molecule that has been spreading emotions for millions of years

New research from Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia finds that zebrafish use oxytocin to recognize and mimic emotions, mirroring the behavior of humans and other mammals. The study suggests that this social behavior is evolutionarily conserved across species.

Fresh questions about oxytocin as the ‘love hormone’ behind pair bonding

A study by UC San Francisco and Stanford Medicine found that removing the oxytocin receptor does not interfere with monogamy or giving birth. Prairie voles bred without receptors for oxytocin showed similar mating, attachment, and parenting behaviors as regular voles.

Prairie voles without oxytocin receptors can bond with mates and young

Research reveals that prairie voles can form enduring pair-bonds and provide parental care without oxytocin receptor signaling, contradicting previous studies. While mutant voles lack milk release, they still nurse and rear pups to weaning age, suggesting species-specific roles of oxytocin receptor signaling.

Oxytocin drives development of neural connections in adult-born neurons

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that oxytocin drives the development of neural connections in adult-born neurons. Oxytocin triggers a signaling pathway that promotes synapse maturation, enabling these new neurons to function properly.

Novel derivative of “love hormone” oxytocin improves cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s

A novel oxytocin derivative, PAS-CPPs-oxytocin, has been shown to improve cognitive function in mice with Alzheimer's-like symptoms. The derivative is delivered via intranasal administration and shows increased brain penetration compared to traditional intracerebroventricular delivery.

Weighted blanket increases melatonin

A new study from Uppsala University found that using a weighted blanket at bedtime increases melatonin production by about 30 percent. The researchers also discovered that the weight of the blanket (12% of participant's body weight) reduced stress system activity, but had no effect on oxytocin and cortisol levels.

‘Love hormone’ revealed to have heart healing properties

Researchers discover that oxytocin stimulates stem cells to migrate and develop into cardiomyocytes in zebrafish and human cell cultures. This could lead to the regeneration of damaged hearts after a heart attack. The study found that oxytocin also activates EpiPCs, which can replenish lost cardiomyocytes.

Shedding light on the happy hormone

A novel fluorescent sensor has been developed to visualize the release of oxytocin, also known as the 'happy hormone', in living animals. The sensor, called MTRIA OT, allows for real-time measurement of extracellular oxytocin dynamics in the brain, revealing variability in OT levels dependent on behavioral and physical conditions.

Dogs cry more when reunited with their owners

A study published in Current Biology found that dogs shed tears associated with positive emotions, such as reuniting with their owners, suggesting a stronger bond between humans and dogs. Oxytocin may play a role in this emotional response, with researchers also noting that people tend to respond more positively to teary-eyed dog faces.

Testosterone promotes 'cuddling,' not just aggression, animal study finds

A new animal study finds that testosterone can foster friendly, prosocial behavior in males, in addition to aggression. The hormone appears to help animals rapidly pivot between prosocial and antisocial responses as the social world changes.

Exploring factors that may underlie how domestic cats can live in groups

A new study explores relationships between domestic cats' hormone levels, gut microbiomes, and social behaviors in cohabitating groups. The research found that low testosterone and cortisol concentrations enabled cats to share space, while high oxytocin levels were associated with less affiliative behavior.

Love isn’t the drug - oxytocin supplements unlikely to mend marriages

Researchers at University of Essex found no benefit from oxytocin administration on healthy men's ability to recognize emotions. Computer-based emotional training programs proved more effective in improving emotion recognition and mental health.

Oxytocin spreads cooperation in social networks

Administering oxytocin to central social network members spreads cooperation via increased punishment of uncooperative behavior, Li et al. found in a new study published in JNeurosci. Cooperation can conflict with individual goals, but oxytocin may have evolved humans' need for group living.

We are more satisfied with life as we age, thanks to this neurochemical

A new study found that the release of oxytocin is linked to increased kindness and life satisfaction, with participants showing more generous behavior and empathy as they aged. The findings support religious philosophies on the importance of helping others in enhancing life satisfaction.

Oxytocin treatment can take lions from ferocious to friendly

Researchers found that an intranasal application of oxytocin could make lion interactions less life-threatening. After the treatments, lions displayed reduced vigilance towards other lions and became more tolerant of their presence.

Men with sex addiction may have elevated levels of the “love hormone”

A small study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that men with hypersexual disorder have higher oxytocin levels than healthy men. Cognitive behavioral therapy was effective in reducing both hypersexual behavior and oxytocin levels in participants.

Oxytocin and autism: Study on a receptor variant provides new insights into the cellular origin of the disorder

Researchers have discovered how genetic variations of the oxytocin receptor affect hormone signaling inside brain cells. The mutated variant is more active and stable than the normal receptor, contradicting previous classifications. This finding provides new starting points for developing targeted therapies for autistic patients.