Work

Sensitive detection of oxytocin in nonhuman primate plasma using a novel liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry assay

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Oxytocin (OT) is a nonapeptide synthesized by parvocellular and magnocellular neurons of the hypothalamus [1].In mammals, the magnocellular neurons mostly project to the posterior pituitary, where OT is stored, and released to the systemic circulation where OT circulates in low concentrations [2].OT acts as a neurotransmitter or a neuromodulator and plays a role in a variety of behavioral functions including the regulation of social cognition and behavior.In highly social mammals like rodents, humans, and nonhuman primates (NHPs), OT is involved in regulation of parental behavior, pair bonding, reactions to social cues, and social attention [3][4][5].Evidence of the prosocial effect of OT prompted investigation of its therapeutic potential in various neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism, schizophrenia, mood disorders, and addiction [6].Accurate measurement of OT is required in order to determine whether the endogenous OT system is altered in these neuropsychiatric disorders.

Source: Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry

DOI: 10.1002/rcm.9839

Authors: Kristopher M. Fecteau, Tatiana A. Shnitko, Kathleen A. Grant, David W. Erikson

Institutions: Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Language: English

Topic: Neuroendocrine regulation and behavior

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism