Oxytocin receptor (OXTR) (OXTR)

The Oxytocin receptor (OXTR) is a member of the Class A (rhodopsin-like) G protein-coupled receptor family that mediates the physiological effects of the neuropeptide oxytocin [1, 2, 6]. It is primarily known for its critical roles in female reproduction, where it triggers uterine contractions during labor and stimulates milk ejection from the mammary glands during lactation [1, 13]. In the central nervous system, OXTR is widely expressed in regions such as the amygdala and hypothalamus, where it modulates complex social and emotional behaviors, including pair bonding, maternal care, trust, and anxiety [6, 16]. Clinically, OXTR is a major therapeutic target; agonists like synthetic oxytocin are used to induce labor and prevent postpartum hemorrhage, while antagonists like atosiban are employed to manage preterm labor [13, 14]. Beyond obstetrics, the receptor is being investigated for its involvement in neuropsychiatric disorders like autism and social anxiety, as well as its potential role as a biomarker and therapeutic target in certain cancers [3, 7, 16].

Other names

OT-ROTROxytocin receptor protein

Agonist, Antagonist