Research progress of oxytocin receptor ligands and its role in central nerve system and peripheral organs / 中国药理学通报

ABSTRACT

Oxytocin ( OT ) is a cyclic neuropeptide containing nine amino acids residues, in addition to the traditional roles of uterine contraction and lactation, it also plays important roles in the central nervous system and other peripheral organs, such as improving schizophrenia, autism - related psychiatric and psy-chological symptoms. Oxytocin exhibits its physiological func-tions by binding to its receptor (oxytocin receptor,OTR). Cur- rently researchers are manipulating OT system by developing new OTR ligand ( agonists and antagonists ) , hoping to prevent and treat OTR related diseases. This paper reviews the latest devel-opment of OTR agonists, antagonists and its physiological roles in central nerve system and peripheral organs.