Oxytocin as a regulator of skeletal muscle plasticity and metabolic function - Report - MDSpire

Oxytocin as a regulator of skeletal muscle plasticity and metabolic function

  • By

  • Joao da Cruz-Filho

  • Danilo Lustrino

  • July 9, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: The Role of Oxytocin in Modulating Skeletal Muscle Adaptation

Overview

Oxytocin (OXT) influences skeletal muscle plasticity through its effects on myogenesis, regeneration, and protein metabolism. Variations in circulating OXT levels are associated with changes in muscle mass.

Background

Historically, oxytocin was primarily recognized for its roles in childbirth and lactation. Recent studies have revealed that oxytocin receptors (OXTR) are present in skeletal muscle, suggesting that OXT may play a role in muscle adaptation and metabolic regulation.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data provided in the source material.

Key Findings

  • Oxytocin influences myogenesis, regeneration, and protein metabolism in skeletal muscle.
  • Circulating OXT levels are associated with muscle mass changes, with anabolic steroid exposure increasing OXT levels.
  • Aging and diabetes are linked to muscle loss and reduced OXT levels.
  • OXT activates its receptor (OXTR), engaging Gαq signaling and intracellular calcium mobilization.
  • OXT may function as a myokine, integrating local muscle signaling with systemic neuroendocrine actions.

Clinical Implications

Further research is needed to clarify the role of OXT in muscle-related disorders.

Conclusion

Further investigation into the mechanisms of oxytocin in skeletal muscle adaptation and metabolism is warranted.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Conexiant, Source, 2024 -- Oxytocin’s Role in Obesity Management
  2. Endocrine Reviews, Source, 2024 -- The Oxytocin System and Implications for Oxytocin Deficiency in Hypothalamic-Pituitary Disease
  3. Endocrine Reviews, Source, 2024 -- Mechanomedicine for Addressing Skeletal Muscle Insulin Resistance
  4. PMC, Source, 2024 -- The Conceptual Definition of Sarcopenia: Delphi Consensus from the Global Leadership Initiative in Sarcopenia (GLIS)
  5. PMC, Source, 2024 -- Intranasal Oxytocin for Obesity
  6. PMC, Source, 2024 -- Oxytocin is an age-specific circulating hormone that is necessary for muscle maintenance and regeneration
  7. Frontiers in Immunology — Metrnl and Macrophage Polarization: Role in Skeletal Muscle Homeostasis and Therapeutic Potential
  8. The Conceptual Definition of Sarcopenia: Delphi Consensus from the Global Leadership Initiative in Sarcopenia (GLIS) - PMC
  9. Intranasal Oxytocin for Obesity - PMC
  10. Oxytocin is an age-specific circulating hormone that is necessary for muscle maintenance and regeneration - PMC

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