Effect of oxytocin on cardiovascular function

Oxytocin is a mammalian hormone that also acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain. It is best known for its roles in female reproduction it is released in large amounts after distension of the cervix and vagina during labor and after stimulation of the nipples facilitating birth and breastfeeding respectively. Many studies have begun to investigate oxytocin''s role in various behaviors including orgasm social recognition pair bonding anxiety trust love and maternal behaviors. OT one of two major posterior pituitary hormones (oxytocin and vasopressin) is a neuropeptide synthesized primarily in magnocellular neurons in the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei of the hypothalamus which project to posterior pituitary median eminence and several brain regions. Oxytocin is also produced in peripheral tissues including the heart the heart is an important source of oxytocin production and synthesis.