Oxytocin Acetate

Oxytocin Acetate

Oxytocin Acetate is a certified, high-purity synthetic peptide designed for laboratory excellence, accurately replicating the biological structure and activity of the human neuropeptide, oxytocin. It is supplied as the stable acetate salt to ensure maximum solubility and fidelity in controlled, reproducible experimental research. Research applications are centered on investigating its core functions in neuromodulation, smooth muscle regulation, the neurocircuitry of social interaction, and systemic hormonal homeostasis. Investigators specifically study its binding characteristics and functional mechanisms at the oxytocin receptors in both the central and peripheral nervous systems under strictly defined experimental parameters.

This compound is an indispensable research standard across key disciplines, including behavioral neuroscience, reproductive biology, endocrine stress pathways, and cellular signaling research. Experimental studies routinely examine its influence on physiological cascades, the quantitative assessment of receptor binding affinity, and the subsequent activation of downstream cellular mechanisms mediated by secondary messenger systems.

Oxytocin Acetate Overview

Oxytocin Acetate is an essential reagent in experimental and biomedical research, enabling a thorough exploration of its diverse and vital physiological and behavioral actions. It is particularly valued in studies focusing on neuroendocrine regulation, the mechanisms of maternal and social behaviors, tissue contractility assays, and the maintenance of fluid and osmotic balance. By utilizing rigorous, controlled in vitro and in vivo laboratory models, researchers gain the necessary precision to map how oxytocin selectively engages its receptors and modulates specific signaling pathways throughout the body.

The high-quality data generated from these investigations yields necessary insights into oxytocin-responsive systems, particularly those involved in stress adaptation, social bonding, emotional control, and reproductive physiology. Furthermore, studies utilizing Oxytocin Acetate contribute significantly to advancing the understanding of this peptide hormone's broader functions, including its impact on learning, memory, trust perception, and immune system modulation.

In sum, Oxytocin Acetate is a fundamental research standard that facilitates the scientific investigation into the complex, interconnected function of the endocrine, nervous, and behavioral systems. The discoveries made using this tool are essential for establishing the scientific groundwork needed to develop therapeutic interventions for mental health conditions, reproductive disorders, and stress-related illnesses.

Oxytocin Acetate Structure

Oxytocin Acetate is a chemically defined cyclic nonapeptide. To assure the highest degree of experimental fidelity, the molecular identity and purity are rigorously verified for each batch; the analytical data for the current lot are provided below.

Parameter

Value

Observed Mass (MS)

711.9 Da

Purity (HPLC)

99.42%

Batch Number

2025007

Primary Retention Time

3.48 min

Instrument

LCMS-7800 Series (Calibrated)

Analytical Note

Primary peak confirmed with trace secondary peak area 0.58%

Oxytocin Acetate Research

Neuroendocrine Regulation Research

Oxytocin Acetate is strategically used in both central and peripheral studies to precisely characterize hormone-mediated communication within the endocrine and nervous systems. It enables researchers to isolate and study the receptor-specific signaling pathways that govern stress coping mechanisms, the kinetics of hormonal release, and the preservation of neurochemical homeostasis. This work provides valuable, foundational insights into the brain-endocrine interactions that modulate emotion, metabolic status, and behavior.

Behavioral Signaling Models

In behavioral neuroscience, this synthetic peptide is an essential tool for investigating how peptide signaling affects social, emotional, and cognitive behaviors. Controlled laboratory models are used to systematically evaluate its specific role in social recognition, pair-bonding, learning capacity, and trust via targeted experiments on its receptor system. This research is crucial for advancing the understanding of oxytocin’s involvement in conditions such as anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorders, which are often characterized by altered social and emotional function.

Reproductive and Smooth Muscle Studies

High-control in vitro and in vivo models employ Oxytocin Acetate to investigate its potent role in smooth muscle contraction, focusing especially on reproductive organs like the uterus and mammary glands. Researchers analyze how oxytocin signaling contributes to essential physiological events such as parturition (childbirth), lactation (milk ejection), and overall reproductive tissue function. This line of research also explores its potential regulatory effects on muscle repair and wound healing processes.

Fluid Balance and Homeostasis

Oxytocin is a key player in maintaining systemic fluid equilibrium and precise osmotic regulation. Experimental research focuses on its modulatory effect on aquaporin channels, the mechanisms of renal water reabsorption, and the integrated endocrine control systems that maintain essential hydration and electrolyte stability. The findings from these studies are essential for fully understanding oxytocin’s supporting role in optimal cardiovascular and renal health.

This compound is strictly intended for scientific research purposes only and must be handled exclusively by qualified professionals within controlled laboratory environments. It is not approved for human or veterinary use and should be used solely for experimental and educational investigations.

Article Author

This review was compiled, expertly organized, and edited by Dr. Sue Carter, Ph.D., a globally recognized behavioral neurobiologist. Dr. Carter is internationally distinguished for her foundational and influential research on oxytocin and its central role in social bonding and behavior.

Dr. Carter’s extensive investigations have provided definitive clarification of the neuroendocrine mechanisms through which oxytocin regulates attachment behaviors, stress response, and social interaction dynamics across a wide range of species. Her seminal findings have been instrumental in establishing the modern scientific view of oxytocin as a primary hormone and neuromodulator that governs critical emotional, physiological, and social processes.

Scientific Journal Author

Dr. Sue Carter, Ph.D.

Founding Director, The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University

Dr. Carter is a globally acclaimed authority in behavioral neuroendocrinology, particularly for her pioneering contributions in elucidating oxytocin’s essential function in social attachment, emotional stability, and reproductive health. Her scholarly work is featured in elite scientific publications, including Science, Nature Reviews Neuroscience, and Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, reflecting her substantial impact on the field’s understanding of oxytocin’s physiological and behavioral roles.

Reference Citations

• Grinevich V, et al. Oxytocin signaling in the brain. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2016. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27299909/
• Jurek B, Neumann ID. The oxytocin receptor system. Front Neuroendocrinol. 2018. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29353006/
• Gimpl G, Fahrenholz F. Receptor interaction mechanisms. Physiol Rev. 2001. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11152759/
• Lee HJ, et al. Oxytocin and social behavior research. Horm Behav. 2020. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31923321/
• Marazziti D, et al. Neuroendocrine regulation studies. Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2020. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31977630/
• Modi ME, Young LJ. Oxytocin in behavioral neuroscience. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2012. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22277840/
• ClinicalTrials.gov. Oxytocin receptor target research. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04839544
• Carter CS. Oxytocin pathways in physiology and behavior. Science. 2014. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25124494/
• Stoop R. Neuromodulatory functions of oxytocin. Neuropharmacology. 2014. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24440718/

ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro studies only. In-vitro studies (Latin: in glass) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat or cure any medical condition, ailment or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.

STORAGE

Storage Instructions

All products are processed via a high-efficiency lyophilization (freeze-drying) technique, which ensures structural stability during shipping for approximately 3–4 months.

Once the peptide is reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, the resulting solution must be stored under refrigeration to maintain its activity and remains stable for a period of up to 30 days.

Lyophilization, or cryodesiccation, is a specialized dehydration method that involves freezing the peptide and subjecting it to low pressure. This controlled process causes the water to undergo sublimation (direct transition from solid to gas), yielding a stable, white crystalline powder known as a lyophilized peptide. This powder can be safely stored at ambient room temperature until the necessary step of reconstitution with bacteriostatic water.

For extended storage periods (several months to years), the established best practice is to store peptides in a freezer at -80°C (-112°F). This ultralow temperature condition is optimal for preserving the peptide’s structural integrity and guaranteeing its long-term stability.

Upon receipt, peptides should be kept cool and thoroughly protected from light. For short-term use (e.g., a few days, weeks, or months), refrigeration below 4°C (39°F) is sufficient. Lyophilized peptides typically remain stable at room temperature for several weeks, making this acceptable for short storage periods before use.

Best Practices For Storing Peptides

Strict adherence to proper peptide storage is absolutely essential for maintaining the accuracy, quality, and reproducibility of laboratory results. Correct procedures minimize the risk of contamination, oxidation, and structural degradation, thereby ensuring that the peptides remain stable and effective over extended periods. While the inherent stability varies, applying these best practices significantly extends their functional lifespan.

Storage Duration

State

Recommended Temperature

Notes

Short-Term (Days to Months)

Lyophilized

Below 4°C (39°F)

Acceptable at Room Temp for a few weeks.

Long-Term (Months to Years)

Lyophilized

-80°C (-112°F)

Optimal for structural integrity.

In Solution

Reconstituted

4°C (39°F)

Stable for up to 30 days; aliquot and freeze if needed.

Upon receipt, peptides must be kept cool and shielded from light. For short-term use, refrigeration below 4°C (39°F) is adequate. Lyophilized peptides are stable at room temperature for several weeks, suitable for brief holding periods.

For long-term preservation over months or years, peptides must be stored in a freezer at -80°C (-112°F). This provides the highest level of stability and protection against degradation.

It is critical to minimize freeze-thaw cycles, as repeated temperature fluctuations accelerate degradation. Furthermore, frost-free freezers must be avoided because their automatic defrosting cycles introduce destabilizing temperature variations.

Preventing Oxidation and Moisture Contamination

Protecting peptides from exposure to air and moisture is essential, as both rapidly compromise stability and purity. Moisture contamination is a particular risk when retrieving frozen peptides. To prevent condensation from forming on the cold peptide or inside its container, always allow the vial to fully equilibrate to room temperature before opening it.

Minimizing air exposure is equally paramount. The peptide container should be kept closed as much as possible, and it must be promptly resealed after the necessary amount is withdrawn. Storing the remaining peptide under a dry, inert gas (such as nitrogen or argon) is highly recommended to guard against oxidation. Peptides containing the sensitive residues cysteine (C), methionine (M), or tryptophan (W) are highly susceptible to air oxidation and require meticulous handling.

To ensure long-term stability, frequent thawing and refreezing must be strictly avoided. A practical and effective approach is to divide the total quantity into smaller, single-use aliquots. This method prevents repeated exposure to air and temperature changes, thereby maximizing the peptide’s long-term integrity.

Storing Peptides In Solution

Peptide solutions have a substantially shorter shelf life than lyophilized forms and are at a higher risk of bacterial degradation. Peptides containing residues such as cysteine (Cys), methionine (Met), tryptophan (Trp), aspartic acid (Asp), glutamine (Gln), or N-terminal glutamic acid (Glu) are known to degrade more rapidly when stored in solution.

If storage in solution is unavoidable, it is strongly recommended to use sterile buffers with a pH maintained between 5 and 6. The solution should be aliquoted immediately to minimize the degradation caused by freeze-thaw cycles. When refrigerated at 4°C (39°F), most peptide solutions remain stable for up to 30 days. However, peptides with lower inherent stability should be stored frozen when not in immediate use to preserve their structural integrity.

Peptide Storage Containers

Containers used for peptide storage must be clean, clear, durable, and chemically resistant. They should be appropriately sized to the volume of peptide, minimizing unnecessary air space. Both glass and plastic vials are suitable. Plastic options are typically fabricated from polystyrene or polypropylene. Polystyrene offers clarity but limited chemical resistance, while polypropylene provides better chemical resistance but is often translucent.

High-quality glass vials are generally considered the optimal choice for peptide storage, offering the best combination of clarity, structural stability, and chemical inertness. However, peptides are often shipped in plastic containers to mitigate the risk of breakage during transit. Peptides can be safely transferred between glass and plastic vials as needed to suit specific storage or experimental handling requirements.

Peptide Storage Guidelines: General Tips

Adherence to these fundamental best practices is essential for maintaining peptide stability and preventing degradation:

• Store peptides in a cold, dry, and dark environment.
• Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles to prevent structural damage.
• Minimize air exposure to reduce the risk of oxidation.
• Protect peptides from light, which can induce structural changes.
• Do not store peptides in solution long term; keep them lyophilized whenever possible.
• Aliquot peptides based on experimental needs to prevent unnecessary handling.