Molecular Characteristics
Complete Specifications
Structural Composition
Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH₂
Physical Properties
Oxytocin is a synthetic cyclic nonapeptide identical to the endogenous hormone, characterized by a disulfide bond between cysteine residues that forms a stable cyclic structure. The cyclic configuration enhances conformational stability compared to linear peptides. As a short peptide hormone, it is susceptible to enzymatic degradation in biological systems; therefore, lyophilized storage under cold, dry conditions is recommended. Protection from moisture, light exposure, and repeated freeze–thaw cycles helps maintain structural integrity and analytical consistency during research applications.
Analysis & Documentation
Identity
Each production lot is checked against the reference structure recorded for this compound:
- Classification — Synthetic cyclic nonapeptide hormone
- Molecular formula — C₄₃H₆₆N₁₂O₁₂S₂
- Expected mass — ~1,007.19 Da
- CAS registry — 50-56-6
- Chain length — 9 amino acids (cyclic via disulfide bond)
- PubChem CID — 439302
Analytical Methods
Testing is carried out per lot by an independent laboratory. The methods measure what the material is and how much of it is the target compound:
- RP-HPLC — reverse-phase separation of the target from process-related impurities; purity is reported as area percent of the main peak
- Mass spectrometry — observed mass compared against the expected molecular mass above
- Retention time — compared against a reference standard run under the same conditions
- Chromatogram — reproduced on the certificate so the peak and any shoulders can be inspected directly
Material & Documentation
What arrives, and how to tie it back to its paperwork:
- Appearance as supplied — White to off-white lyophilized powder
- Solubility — Water, buffered aqueous solutions (e.g., PBS)
- Lot number — printed on the container label and used to look up the certificate
- Certificate — indexed by lot at Certificates of Analysis
Laboratory Handling and Storage Protocols
Lyophilized Powder Storage
- Store at –20°C to –80°C in the original, sealed vial
- Protect from light exposure and moisture
- A desiccated storage environment is recommended
- Stability data suggests extended stability when stored at −20 °C or below.
Reconstituted Solution Storage
- Short-term storage: Up to 7 days at 4°C
- Long-term storage: Store at –20°C in aliquots
- Use single-use aliquots to preserve peptide integrity
- Minimize freeze–thaw cycles; single-use aliquots are strongly recommended
Stability Characteristics
Oxytocin is a synthetic peptide research compound that demonstrates stable handling characteristics when managed according to standard peptide laboratory protocols. Proper cold storage of the lyophilized material, protection from light, careful reconstitution, and minimized freeze–thaw exposure help preserve structural integrity and solubility. When handled appropriately, Oxytocin supports consistent use in in vitro and analytical research applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Oxytocin?
Oxytocin is a nine–amino acid peptide hormone naturally produced in the body. In research environments, it is used to study neuroendocrine signaling and receptor-mediated cellular mechanisms.
Is Oxytocin a naturally occurring peptide?
Yes. Oxytocin is naturally synthesized in the human body. Synthetic oxytocin used in research replicates this endogenous peptide sequence.
Is research-grade Oxytocin the same as pharmaceutical Oxytocin?
No. Research-grade oxytocin is supplied strictly for laboratory use and is not manufactured, labeled, or approved as a pharmaceutical preparation. It must not be marketed as a medical product.
How is Oxytocin supplied?
Oxytocin is typically supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in sealed research vials to maintain stability during storage and transport.
How should unreconstituted Oxytocin be stored?
Lyophilized peptide should be stored:
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Long-term: −20 °C to −80 °C
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Short-term: 2–8 °C
Keep vials sealed and protected from light and moisture.
How should reconstituted Oxytocin be handled and stored?
Once reconstituted:
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Store at 2–8 °C for short-term laboratory use
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For extended storage, aliquot and freeze at −20 °C or below
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Minimize freeze–thaw cycles using single-use aliquots
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Gently swirl to mix; avoid vigorous agitation
Does Oxytocin require a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
Yes. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) should be available for each batch of Oxytocin Acetate, verifying identity and purity to ensure research quality and traceability.
Is Oxytocin FDA-approved?
When sold as a research compound, oxytocin is not FDA-approved for diagnostic, therapeutic, or consumption purposes and must be marketed strictly for laboratory research use.
This product is not for human consumption. It is sold strictly for research and educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Any clinical data or research information referenced on this page is derived from peer-reviewed scientific literature and official publications. This information is provided for educational reference only and does not constitute medical advice or product claims.
By purchasing this product, you acknowledge that you are a qualified researcher and agree to use it in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
