Salsolinol Up-Regulates Oxytocin Expression and Release During Lactation in Sheep

Area of Science:

• Neuroendocrinology
• Lactation Physiology

Background:

• Salsolinol (1-methyl-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline) is a dopamine-derived compound found in the central nervous system and pituitary gland.
• Previous research indicates salsolinol influences prolactin secretion in lactating animals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of salsolinol on oxytocin expression and release in lactating sheep post-weaning.

Main Methods:

• Salsolinol or vehicle was infused into the third brain ventricle of lactating sheep.
• Oxytocin and PAM mRNA expression in the SON, PVN, and posterior pituitary were measured via real-time PCR.
• Oxytocin peptide content and plasma concentration were quantified using ELISA and RIA, respectively.

Main Results:

• Salsolinol significantly upregulated oxytocin and PAM gene expression in the SON, PVN, and posterior pituitary.
• Oxytocin peptide content in the posterior pituitary and plasma oxytocin levels were significantly elevated in salsolinol-treated sheep.

Conclusions:

• Salsolinol administration stimulates oxytocin gene expression and secretion in lactating sheep.
• This study provides the first evidence of salsolinol's role in promoting oxytocin release during lactation.