Advances in the role of oxytocin receptors in human parturition

Publication date: Available online 22 January 2017
Source:Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
Author(s): Sung Hye Kim, Phillip R. Bennett, Vasso Terzidou
Oxytocin (OT) is a neurohypophysial hormone which has been found to play a central role in the regulation of human parturition. The most established role of oxytocin/oxytocin receptor (OT/OTR) system in human parturition is the initiation of uterine contractions, however, recent evidence have demonstrated that it may have a more complex role including initiation of inflammation, regulation of miRNA expression, as well as mediation of other non-classical oxytocin actions via receptor crosstalk with other G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). In this review we highlight both established and newly emerging roles of OT/OTR system in human parturition and discuss the expanding potential for OTRs as pharmacological targets in the management of term and preterm labour.



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