The Importance of Experimental Investigation of the CNS Oxytocin System

This chapter provides an overview of the oxytocinergic system and its role in social behavior. We first consider the relationship between oxytocin and social behavior in neurotypical individuals, focusing on studies that have looked at effects of intranasal oxytocin treatment, as well as research investigating the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms associated with individual differences in social behavior. We then outline the proposed role of the oxytocinergic system in autism spectrum disorder and Williams syndrome, two neurodevelopmental disorders where a dysfunctional oxytocinergic system is thought to lead to difficulties in social behavior. Given the contrasting social phenotypes of these disorders, they provide an intriguing comparison through which we can better understand the role of the oxytocinergic system in social behavior. Finally, we consider how future research can best harness the potential of oxytocin, both by addressing measurement and administration issues inherent in many studies, and by developing our understanding of the oxytocinergic system so we are better able to identify the people who are likely to benefit from oxytocin treatment, and intervene at the right time.