
Frequently called the “love and bonding hormone,” oxytocin is most known for its role in sexual reproduction and mother-infant interactions such as breastfeeding (2). In both sexes, oxytocin is released during romantic behaviors such as hugging, kissing, and sexual activity. In the female body, oxytocin is implicated in advancing uterine contractions and ‘milk letdown’ during lactation. During labor, oxytocin stimulates the uterine muscles, which further intensifies the contractions. Once the baby is born, this analyte promotes lactation by increasing movement of milk from the breast alveoli to the nipple, signaling its release during breastfeeding. In men, oxytocin has a role in moving sperm as well as well as in regulating testosterone production.
Research suggests that oxytocin functions as a neurotransmitter, plays a role in determining social behavior (3,4), and is a crucial part of both male and female reproductive physiology, while it is also potentially involved in neuropsychiatric disorders such as anxiety and schizophrenia (5). Many mental illnesses, social/relationship issues, and atypical parenting behaviors have been correlated to abnormal oxytocin levels (6). Low levels of this analyte have been linked to autistic spectrum disorders, depression, and addiction (7,8). People with higher levels of oxytocin typically have fewer depressive symptoms and have stronger social ties than those with lower oxytocin levels. However, elevated oxytocin levels can also intensify past memories, which may induce heightened feelings of stress and social anxiety (9,10). Men with elevated levels of oxytocin may develop benign prostatic hyperplasia, which often causes urinary complications. In summary, oxytocin is part of a complex psychological and biological system which reinforces many of the typical human emotions and guides social interactions.
Technical Summary
Analyte Summary | |
---|---|
Analyte: | Oxytocin |
Aliases: | Oxt, OT |
Serum-Saliva Correlation: | N/A |
Optimum Collection Volume: | 150 μL* |
Assay Summary | |
---|---|
Methodology: | Electrochemiluminescence |
Sensitivity: | 8 pg/mL |
Assay Range: | 8-1000 pg/mL |
Assay Type: | Quantitative |
Collect Saliva Samples
OXYTOCIN SALIVA COLLECTION CONSIDERATIONS
Better results begin with better saliva collection. This collection protocol features general considerations to maximize salivary oxytocin integrity. Use this analyte-specific collection protocol to plan your collection methodology and sampling schemes.
APPROVED SALIVARY OXYTOCIN COLLECTION METHODS
Test Saliva Samples
Order Code (lab): | 5115 |
Transport Requirements: | Ship on Dry Ice |
The validated method used by Salimetrics is proprietary and not available in assay kit form at this time.
Add DNA Analysis to My Study
Considerations for adding Salivary DNA to analyte Studies:
You can combine salivary analytes with easy, accurate, and affordable genomic testing using Salimetrics SalivaLab and the same sample that you are already collecting – no specialized saliva collection devices or additional samples are required.
Don’t know what SNPs are right for you? The SalivaLab’s DNA team specializes in genetic testing services, we recommend you Request a DNA Consult (gratis) to learn more about common considerations such as # of samples, participant ethnicity, and IRB Approval.
All DNA Services
DNA Extraction and Normalization
Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) Genotyping
VNTR & STR Analysis
References & Salivary Oxytocin Research
- Brandtzaeg, O. K. et al. Proteomics tools reveal startlingly high amounts of oxytocin in plasma and serum. Scientific Reports 6, (2016).
- Feldman, R., Weller, A., Zagoory-Sharon, O. & Levine, A. Evidence for a Neuroendocrinological Foundation of Human Affiliation. Psychological Science 18, 965–970 (2007).
- Algoe, S. B., Kurtz, L. E. & Grewen, K. Oxytocin and Social Bonds: The Role of Oxytocin in Perceptions of Romantic Partners’ Bonding Behavior. Psychological Science 28, 1763–1772 (2017).
- Isgett, S. F. et al. Supplemental Material for Influences of Oxytocin and Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia on Emotions and Social Behavior in Daily Life. Emotion 17, 1156–1165 (2017).
- Keri, S., Kiss, I. & Kelemen, O. Sharing secrets: Oxytocin and trust in schizophrenia. Social Neuroscience 4, 287–293 (2008).