Oxytocin

Overview

Oxytocin is a cyclic nonapeptide — a chain of nine amino acids arranged in a ring shape, held together by a disulfide bond between two cysteine residues. Its sequence is Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2, with a molecular weight of 1,007.19 g/mol and the formula C₄₃H₆₆N₁₂O₁₂S₂. The ring structure formed by the disulfide bridge gives the molecule its characteristic stability.

Oxytocin was first isolated and synthesized in 1953, making it the first polypeptide hormone ever synthesized in a laboratory. The compound is naturally produced in the hypothalamus region of the brain and is classified as both a neuropeptide and a peptide hormone. In its research-grade form, oxytocin appears as a white to off-white lyophilized powder that is highly soluble in water.

This product is strictly for research purposes only.

PubChem Reference: View compound profile on NIH PubChem

Key Characteristics

MOLECULAR PROFILE

Formula: C₄₃H₆₆N₁₂O₁₂S₂

Weight: 1007.19 g/mol

CAS: 50-56-6

Structure: Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Form: White to off-white lyophilized powder

Solubility: Highly soluble in water

Alternative Names: α-Hypophamine, Ocytocin, Syntocinon

Storage: Cool, dry place away from light

Weight	0.08 lbs
Dimensions	0.87 × 1.18 × 0.87 in
Size	5mg