Research use only — not for human consumption. Not evaluated by the MHRA or FDA.
Peptides
Oxytocin 2mg
2 mg · Lyophilised powder
Order by 2pm for same-day dispatch. Free UK next-day tracked delivery.
| Form | Lyophilised powder |
|---|---|
| Purity specification | ≥ 99% by HPLC (supplier specification) |
| Storage | −20°C lyophilised · 2–8°C once reconstituted |
Research Overview
What Oxytocin is
Oxytocin is a naturally occurring cyclic nonapeptide with the sequence Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2, in which a disulfide bond between the two cysteine residues forms a six-membered ring with a three-residue tail. Its molecular weight is approximately 1,007 Da. It was the first peptide hormone to have its structure determined and to be chemically synthesised, work for which Vincent du Vigneaud received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1955. It differs from vasopressin at only two positions.
Research background
Oxytocin is one of the most studied neuropeptides, with an enormous literature spanning receptor pharmacology, neuroscience and behavioural models in rodents and other species. In the laboratory it serves as a reference agonist in oxytocin receptor binding and functional assays, as a comparator in the design of receptor-selective analogues, and as a tool compound in studies of social behaviour and stress physiology in animal models. Megalab supplies oxytocin as a research reagent only.
Specification
Each vial contains 2mg of oxytocin as a lyophilised powder. The fill is smaller than most products in the range because the compound is typically used at low working concentrations in receptor and cell-based assays. Purity is verified by HPLC at ≥99% on every batch; a Certificate of Analysis is available on request.
Handling and storage
Store unopened vials at −20°C, protected from light. Bring to room temperature before opening. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water added slowly down the vial wall and swirl gently. Oxytocin is sensitive to oxidation at the disulfide bridge; avoid prolonged exposure to air and store reconstituted solution at 2–8°C, used within 30 days.
Supplied for laboratory research use only.
Reconstitution & storage
- Diluent
- Bacteriostatic water, added slowly down the inside wall of the vial; swirl, do not shake.
- Lyophilised
- Store at −20°C, away from light and moisture.
- Reconstituted
- Refrigerate at 2–8°C.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the structure of oxytocin?
A nine-residue peptide with a disulfide bridge between Cys1 and Cys6, forming a ring, and a C-terminal amide. Molecular weight approximately 1,007 Da.
Why is the vial 2mg?
Oxytocin is generally used at low concentrations in receptor and cell assays, so 2mg provides ample material while limiting waste from degradation over time.
Is oxytocin stable in solution?
Reasonably so when refrigerated, but the disulfide bond is prone to oxidation. Minimise air exposure, keep at 2–8°C and use within 30 days.
