Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 10, 2025

Analysis of Electrocardiograms and Behavior in Mice from Pregnancy to Lactation Period
Published on: April 5, 2024
The Role of Oxytocin in Parental Care
Ying Yuan1,2,3, Zhihua Gao1,2,3, Wei Xiao1,2,3
1Department of Neurobiology and Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
Abstract:
Parental behaviors are essential for offspring survival and shaped by hormonal changes and adaptations in the neural circuits. Oxytocin, a nonapeptide, has been shown to play an important role in promoting parental behaviors. Using cutting-edge tools, studies have recently uncovered how oxytocin mediates parental behaviors through modulation of different neural circuits. We highlight recent advances in identifying neural pathways contributing to the role of oxytocin in parental care, focusing on how infant-related cues activate the oxytocin system and how oxytocin enhances the salience of sensory cues to enable parental behaviors in this review. We also discuss future challenges to further elucidate mechanisms involved.
More Related Videos
09:12Assessing Cellular Stress and Inflammation in Discrete Oxytocin-secreting Brain Nuclei in the Neonatal Rat Before and After First Colostrum Feeding
Published on: November 14, 2018
05:04A Common Marmoset Model of Mother-Infant Intervention for Breastfeeding Disorders in the Presence of Paternal Inhibition and Maternal Neglect
Published on: September 22, 2023
Related Concept Videos
Parental Care
Neurotransmitters
Gonadal and Placental Hormones
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs — the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics — a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair...
Theory of Romantic Attachment in Adulthood
Parenting Styles
Authoritarian Parenting
This style is strict and controlling, with little room for open dialogue. Authoritarian parents demand obedience and often enforce rules with minimal warmth. Children raised this way may lack social skills and initiative, usually comparing themselves to others unfavorably.
Authoritative...
Imprinting