Gene OXTR
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Also known as
oxytocin receptor, OT-R, OTROverview
OXTR (Oxytocin Receptor) encodes the receptor for oxytocin, a neuropeptide involved in social bonding, maternal behavior, stress response, and reproduction. When oxytocin binds to this G protein-coupled receptor, it triggers signaling cascades affecting mood, social cognition, and reproductive functions including uterine contraction and milk ejection.Variants in OXTR have been extensively studied for associations with social behavior and mental health. Certain polymorphisms are associated with empathy levels, attachment styles, stress reactivity, and susceptibility to autism spectrum disorder and depression. The rs53576 variant is particularly well-studied for effects on social behavior and stress responsiveness.
Understanding your OXTR genetic status provides insights into social cognition and stress response. This information is relevant for understanding individual differences in empathy, bonding, stress resilience, and potentially lactation efficiency, as oxytocin is essential for the milk let-down reflex.