Characterization of a uterine-type oxytocin receptor in the rat hippocampus.

Authors:
  • MMM Mühlethaler
    M Mühlethaler
  • WSW H Sawyer
    W H Sawyer
  • MMM M Manning
    M M Manning
  • JDJ J Dreifuss
    J J Dreifuss
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Abstract
Extracellular recordings were obtained from a class of nonpyramidal neurons in hippocampal slices. Oxytocin applied to the bath at concentrations of 1 nM or greater excited these cells. This effect was reversibly antagonized by a synthetic structural analog known to block the peripheral endocrine effects of oxytocin. The effect of oxytocin was mimicked by a selective oxytocic agonist and, with less potency, by vasopressin and by other structural analogs. The potencies of oxytocin, vasopressin and of these analogs in the hippocampus correlated well with their uterotonic activities but not with their vasopressor or antidiuretic activities. Apparently, a class of hippocampal neurons is endowed with receptors for oxytocin that are similar to those of uterine smooth muscle cells.

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