Oxytocin unlike vasopressin is a stress hormone in the rat

Oxytocin unlike vasopressin is a stress hormone in the rat

The functions of oxytocin in the female are thought to be confined to the processes of milk ejection and parturition. In this study the role of oxytocin in the body's response to stressful stimuli has been examined. Physical immobilization of rats and forced swimming caused large increases in t...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Neuroendocrinology Vol. 37; no. 4; p. 314
Main Authors: Lang, R E, Heil, J W, Ganten, D, Hermann, K, Unger, T, Rascher, W
Format: Journal Article
Language:English
Published: Switzerland 01-01-1983
Subjects:
Animals
Cold Temperature
Female
Immobilization
Male
Oxytocin - secretion
Physical Exertion
Rats
Rats, Inbred Strains
Stress, Physiological - physiopathology
Vasopressins - secretion
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Summary:The functions of oxytocin in the female are thought to be confined to the processes of milk ejection and parturition. In this study the role of oxytocin in the body's response to stressful stimuli has been examined. Physical immobilization of rats and forced swimming caused large increases in the secretion of the hormone, whereas vasopressin levels remained unchanged. These findings classify oxytocin, in contrast to vasopressin, as a so-called 'stress hormone' and suggest its importance in processes other than those related to reproduction.
ISSN:0028-3835
DOI:10.1159/000123566