Hormone · Peptide Antagonist
Atosiban
Atosiban is a synthetic 9-amino acid antagonist of the oxytocin receptor, used in lab models to study uterine muscle contraction. A reference compound.
- Length
- 9 amino acids
- Half-life
- Approximately 1.7 minutes in vitro
- Mechanism
- This synthetic cyclic peptide acts as a competitive antagonist of the human oxytocin receptor.
- Studied in
- It is used as a specific pharmacological tool in uterine smooth muscle preparations and animal models to investigate the role of oxytocin in myometrial contractions.
About Atosiban
Atosiban is a synthetic nonapeptide analog of oxytocin, featuring several modifications to the parent hormone's structure that confer its function as a competitive antagonist at the oxytocin receptor. This molecule is a reference compound with a clinical history.
By binding to but not activating oxytocin receptors on myometrial cell membranes, Atosiban blocks the downstream signalling cascade that normally leads to uterine muscle contraction. This makes it a valuable tool in physiological research for isolating and studying oxytocin-mediated pathways in ex vivo tissue baths or in vivo animal models of parturition.
Laboratory notes
- Atosiban also shows weak affinity for the vasopressin V1a receptor, which may need to be considered in certain experimental contexts.
- Reconstitute in sterile water or appropriate buffer. Solutions should be prepared fresh or stored frozen for short periods.
- When using in tissue bath experiments, ensure appropriate equilibration times to allow for receptor binding.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Atosiban
How does Atosiban relate to oxytocin?
Atosiban is a structurally modified analog of oxytocin that acts as an antagonist, meaning it binds to the oxytocin receptor and blocks its action.
What is its primary mechanism of action?
It competitively inhibits the binding of oxytocin to its receptor on uterine smooth muscle cells.
What type of research is Atosiban used for?
It is primarily used in physiological and pharmacological research to investigate the mechanisms of uterine contractility and the specific role of the oxytocin system.
Is Atosiban for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
All products are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, not a medicine, not for diagnosing, treating or preventing any condition.