Martin-Du Pan R C
Rev Med Suisse. 2012 Mar 21;8(333):627-30.
Oxytocin, an octapeptide synthesized in the hypothalamus, stimulates milk election and uterine contractions. In the brain this hormone acts as a neuropeptide. It could inhibit through the GABAergic system the activity of limbic amygdala, which is involved in the response to fear. Oxytocin could also induce the protective behaviour of the mother towards its offspring through the dopaminergic system. In mankind, oxytocin plays a role in trust, empathy, generosity, stress and sexuality. Clinical studies are testing potential benefits of oxytocin administration in autism, depression and social phobia. Results are still preliminary.
催产素是一种在下丘脑中合成的八肽，它能刺激排乳和子宫收缩。在大脑中，这种激素作为一种神经肽发挥作用。它可以通过γ-氨基丁酸能系统抑制参与恐惧反应的边缘杏仁核的活动。催产素还可以通过多巴胺能系统诱导母亲对其后代的保护行为。在人类中，催产素在信任、同理心、慷慨、压力和性行为中发挥作用。临床研究正在测试催产素给药在自闭症、抑郁症和社交恐惧症方面的潜在益处。结果仍处于初步阶段。
