Oxytocin, motivation and the role of dopamine
Open accessAbstract
The hypothalamic neuropeptide oxytocin has drawn the attention of scientists for more than a century. The understanding of the function of oxytocin has expanded dramatically over the years from a simple peptide adept at inducing uterine contractions and milk ejection to a complex neuromodulator with a capacity to shape human social behavior. Decades of research have outlined oxytocin’s ability to enhance intricate social activities ranging from pair bonding, sexual activity, affiliative preferences, and parental behaviors. The precise neural mechanisms underlying oxytocin’s influence on such behaviors have just begun to be understood. Research suggests that oxytocin interacts closely with the neural pathways responsible for processing motivationally relevant stimuli. In particular, oxytocin appears to impact dopaminergic activity within the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system, which is crucial not only for reward and motivated behavior but also for the expression of affiliative behaviors. Though most of the work performed in this area has been done using animal models, several neuroimaging studies suggest similar relationships may be observed in humans. In order to introduce this topic further, this paper will review the recent evidence that oxytocin may exert some of its social-behavioral effects through its impact on motivational networks.
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Written from the paper’s full text.
TL;DR
This review argues that oxytocin shapes social behavior partly by modulating mesocorticolimbic dopamine circuits, increasing the salience of social cues and sometimes shifting their valence. It synthesizes animal and human evidence across maternal behavior, pair bonding, aggression, sexual behavior, and other social interactions.
Key findings
- Oxytocin is a nine-amino-acid nonapeptide with central projections to the amygdala, hippocampus, nucleus accumbens, and VTA; oxytocin receptors in these mesocorticolimbic regions position it to influence motivated behavior.
- Dopamine in the mesocorticolimbic system is linked to motivational salience and “wanting” rather than “liking”; distinct dopamine neuron populations are proposed to encode motivational value and motivational salience.
- Oxytocin and dopamine interact: VTA oxytocin injections increase extracellular nucleus accumbens dopamine and induce penile erection in rats, oxytocin receptor antagonists diminish dopamine agonist effects, and both D2 and oxytocin receptors are needed for partner preference formation in prairie voles.
- Across domains, oxytocin can enhance social salience and shift valence—e.g., over 80 years of rodent research shows pups are highly salient to mothers, virgin rats can shift from avoiding/attacking pups to affiliative behavior after oxytocin, and pair-bonded male voles become aggressive toward strangers while preferring mates.
Methods
- Narrative review; no systematic search strategy, meta-analysis, or primary data collection is described.
- Evidence reviewed includes rodent/preclinical studies (rats, mice, prairie voles) and human studies using neuroimaging, plasma oxytocin, intranasal oxytocin, and genetic measures.
- Main analysis is a conceptual synthesis of oxytocin–dopamine interactions within mesocorticolimbic motivational circuitry.
Limitations
- The paper states more research is needed to determine how and if oxytocin modulates social relevance, valence assignment, and action selection, and calls for protocols that differentiate valence-specific from salience-specific effects.
- The paper notes inconsistent oxytocin findings (e.g., maternal aggression, facial emotion recognition) and that effects depend on context, person, genotype, sex, and species; human work is less well studied in some domains.
- Evident from the text: as a narrative review, it does not systematically assess study quality or quantify effects, and much of the mechanistic evidence comes from animal models, limiting direct human generalization.
Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.
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Claims the paper makes
0 of 151 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged
- Premisecitation
Dopaminergic manipulations appear to influence assignment of motivational value or salience, impacting the drive toward rewards, rather than the pleasure derived from the reward itself.
“Hence, dopaminergic manipulations appear to influence assignment of motivational value or salience, impacting the drive toward such rewards, rather than the pleasure derived from the reward itself (Berridge and Robinson, 1998, Bromberg-Martin et al., 2010, Salamone, 2007).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked - Interpretationreasoning
Oxytocin may be involved in shifting attributions of motivational value or valence towards social stimuli, resulting in alternative appetitive and aversive value assignments to certain social objects.
“Oxytocin may also be involved in shifting attributions of motivational value or valence towards social stimuli, resulting in alternative appetitive and aversive value assignments to certain social objects.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationnone given
Multiple intersecting lines of research have revealed that oxytocinergic modulation of activity within motivational networks, particularly within dopaminergic mesocorticolimbic circuits, may be involved.
“multiple intersecting lines of research have revealed oxytocinergic modulation of activity within motivational networks, particularly within dopaminergic mesocorticolimbic circuits, may be involved.”
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Other dopamine neurons encode motivational salience, showing weak responses to neutral events but excited by salient events regardless of whether the event was appetitive or aversive.
“2) motivational salience, as other dopamine neurons show weak responses to neutral events but are excited by salient events (i.e. regardless of whether the event was appetitive or aversive in nature (Bromberg-Martin et al., 2010).”
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- Premisecitation
Oxytocin receptors and corresponding messenger RNA have been localized within the VTA.
“Oxytocin receptors and corresponding messenger RNA have been localized within the VTA (Freund-Mercier et al., 1987, Sofroniew, 1983, Vaccari et al., 1998).”
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- Premisecitation
Activation of oxytocin neurons thought to target the VTA stimulates mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic neurons.
“Recent studies show activation of oxytocin neurons thought to target the VTA stimulates mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic neurons (Melis et al., 2007, Melis et al., 2009, Succu et al., 2011, Succu et al., 2008).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked - Premisecitation
Dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens stimulates dopamine neurons within the PVN that can ultimately activate oxytocinergic neurons and induce penile erection.
“dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens has been demonstrated to produce stimulation of dopamine neurons within the PVN that can ultimately activate oxytocinergic neurons and induce penile erection (Melis et al., 2007, Melis et al., 2009, Succu et al., 2011, Succu et al., 2007).”
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Oxytocinergic neurons express dopamine receptors.
“oxytocinergic neurons are susceptible to modulation by dopamine themselves as they also express dopamine receptors (Baskerville et al., 2009).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Baskerville et al., 2009 source
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- Interpretationcitation
The effect of oxytocin stimulation of the amygdala and hippocampus on penile erection and accumbal dopamine is suggested to occur due to activation of glutamatergic projections from the amygdala and hippocampus that act to stimulate mesolimbic dopamine neurons within the VTA.
“This is suggested to occur due to activation of glutamatergic projections from the amygdala and hippocampus that act to stimulate mesolimbic dopamine neurons within the VTA (Melis et al., 2009, Succu et al., 2011).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked - Interpretationreasoning
The location of oxytocin's receptors throughout the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system places oxytocin in an ideal position to influence a wide range of motivated behaviors.
“The location of oxytocin’s receptors throughout the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system places oxytocin in an ideal position to influence a wide range of motivated behaviors.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
Oxytocin's ability to influence behavioral responses to social stimuli is at least partially mediated by its capacity to increase the salience of social cues.
“Several groups of researchers have posited that oxytocin’s ability to influence behavioral responses to social stimuli is at least partially mediated by its capacity to increase the salience of social cues (Averbeck, 2010, Bartz et al., 2011, Burkett and Young, 2012, Gordon et al., 2011, Shamay-Tsoory et al., 2009).”
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- cites Bartz et al., 2011
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- cites Burkett and Young, 2012 source
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- Rests on an assumption: Social stimuli are processed as motivationally relevant stimuli by the mesocorticolimbic system.
- Premisecitation
Maternal rats exhibiting high levels of pup licking and grooming behavior tend to exhibit larger increases in dopaminergic activity in the nucleus accumbens as a result of grooming their pups relative to their low licking and grooming counterparts.
“Maternal rats exhibiting high levels of pup licking and grooming behavior tend to exhibit larger increases in dopaminergic activity in the nucleus accumbens as a result of grooming their pups relative to their low licking and grooming counterparts (Shahrokh et al., 2010, Champagne et al., 2004).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked - Interpretationreasoning
Infants are highly salient to their mothers.
“To put it awfully inadequately, infants are highly salient to their mothers.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
Maternal motivation is influenced by activity within the mesocorticolimbic system.
“Maternal motivation, or the responsiveness of a mother towards her young, is influenced by activity within the mesocorticolimbic system (see Numan and Stolzenberg, 2009 for a comprehensive review).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Numan and Stolzenberg, 2009
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- Premisecitation
Applying dopaminergic antagonists or dopaminergic neurotoxins to the nucleus accumbens interrupts mother-pup interactions.
“whereas applying dopaminergic antagonists or dopaminergic neurotoxins to the region interrupts such interactions (Hansen et al., 1993, Hansen et al., 1991a, Keer and Stern, 1999, Numan et al., 2005).”
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- cites Hansen et al., 1991a
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- cites Keer and Stern, 1999
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Increases in dopaminergic concentrations in the nucleus accumbens induced by pup grooming among the maternal rats that demonstrate the highest levels of this behavior could be inhibited through administration of an oxytocin receptor antagonist into the VTA.
“they observed that increases in dopaminergic concentrations in the nucleus accumbens induced by pup grooming among the maternal rats that demonstrate the highest levels of this behavior could be inhibited through administration of an oxytocin receptor antagonist into the VTA (Shahrokh et al., 2010).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Shahrokh et al., 2010 source
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- Premisecitation
Oxytocin infusions into the VTA can enhance dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens.
“utilizing in vivo voltammetry, Shahrokh and colleagues demonstrated that oxytocin infusions into the VTA could enhance dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens (Shahrokh et al., 2010).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Shahrokh et al., 2010 source
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- Interpretationcitation
Oxytocinergic activity within the motivational system serves as an important neurobiological substrate underlying maternal behavior.
“Oxytocinergic activity within the motivational system also serves as an important neurobiological substrate underlying maternal behavior.”
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Mother rats displaying high levels of pup grooming behavior show an increased number of oxytocinergic projections from the PVN to the VTA relative to rats exhibiting low levels of pup grooming behavior.
“Mother rats displaying high levels of pup grooming behavior show an increased number oxytocinergic projections from the PVN to the VTA relative to rats exhibiting low levels of pup grooming behavior (Shahrokh et al., 2010).”
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- Premisecitation
Oxytocin receptor levels within areas such as the medial preoptic area, nucleus accumbens, VTA and amygdala differ between rats displaying varying levels of maternal behavior, with increased maternal behavior being associated with higher oxytocin receptor concentrations.
“Similarly, oxytocin receptor levels within areas such as the medial preoptic area, nucleus accumbens, VTA and amygdala differ between rats displaying varying levels of maternal behavior, with increased maternal behavior being associated with higher oxytocin receptor concentrations (Francis et al., 2000, Shahrokh et al., 2010).”
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Inactivating the VTA by bupivacaine or by selectively destroying the dopamine neurons within the VTA can reduce maternal behaviors such as pup retrieval and grooming.
“Inactivating the VTA by bupivacaine or by selectively destroying the dopamine neurons within the VTA can also reduce maternal behaviors such as pup retrieval and grooming (Seip and Morrell, 2009, Hansen et al., 1991b).”
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- cites Hansen et al., 1991b
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Maternal behavior can be elicited through administration of oxytocin in virgin rats.
“Maternal behavior can be elicited through administration of oxytocin in virgin rats (Pedersen et al., 1982);”
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Pharmacological inactivation of the VTA abolishes the conditioned place preference for pups in postpartum females.
“pharmacological inactivation of the VTA abolishes the conditioned place preference for pups in postpartum females (Seip and Morrell, 2009).”
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- Interpretationcitation
The actions of oxytocin and dopamine on maternal behavior do not appear to be entirely separate.
“It is of note that the actions of oxytocin and dopamine on maternal behavior do not appear to be entirely separate.”
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Oxytocin antagonists applied within the VTA impair both pup retrieval and time spent in nursing postures over pups in parturient dams.
“whereas oxytocin antagonists applied within the VTA impair both pup retrieval and time spent in nursing postures over pups in parturient dams (Pedersen et al., 1994).”
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- Premisecitation
Bonding between mothers and children has also been associated with activity within mesocorticolimbic circuits in humans.
“Although less well studied in humans, bonding between mothers and children has also been associated with activity within mesocorticolimbic circuits.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: Findings from animal models about oxytocin-dopamine interactions and maternal behavior generalize to humans.
- Premisecitation
fMRI paradigms have shown recruitment of the amygdala, ventral striatum, VTA/substantia nigra as well as areas within the frontal cortex and insula in response to mothers seeing photographs of their own children versus other peoples children.
“Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) paradigms have shown recruitment of the amygdala, ventral striatum, VTA/substantia nigra as well as areas within the frontal cortex and insula in response to mothers seeing photographs of their own children versus other peoples children (Bartels and Zeki, 2004, Leibenluft et al., 2004, Strathearn et al., 2009, Strathearn et al., 2008, but see Wittfoth-S”
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- cites Leibenluft et al., 2004 source
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- cites Strathearn et al., 2009 source
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- Rests on an assumption: Findings from animal models about oxytocin-dopamine interactions and maternal behavior generalize to humans.
- Premisecitation
Mothers hearing crying sounds from an infant exhibit enhanced BOLD activation within the temporal lobe and amygdala.
“Other lines of research indicate mothers hearing crying sounds from an infant exhibit enhanced BOLD activation within the temporal lobe and amygdala (Riem et al., 2011).”
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- Rests on an assumption: Findings from animal models about oxytocin-dopamine interactions and maternal behavior generalize to humans.
- Premisecitation
New mothers classified as having a secure attachment style exhibited heightened BOLD activation within the orbitofrontal cortex, medial prefrontal cortex, ventral striatum and hypothalamus while viewing pictures of their own infants relative to mothers displaying insecure/dismissing attachment styles.
“Strathearn and colleagues demonstrated that new mothers classified as having a secure attachment style exhibited heightened BOLD activation within the orbitofrontal cortex, medial prefrontal cortex, ventral striatum and hypothalamus while viewing pictures of their own infants relative to mothers displaying insecure/dismissing attachment styles (Strathearn et al., 2009).”
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- Rests on an assumption: Findings from animal models about oxytocin-dopamine interactions and maternal behavior generalize to humans.
- Premisecitation
Plasma levels of oxytocin are positively related to the attention and affection mothers and fathers show their infant children.
“Plasma levels of oxytocin are positively related to the attention and affection mothers and fathers show their infant children (see Gordon et al., 2011).”
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- Rests on an assumption: Findings from animal models about oxytocin-dopamine interactions and maternal behavior generalize to humans.
- Interpretationreasoning
Interfering with oxytocinergic activity in these regions significantly modifies these maternal behaviors.
“Interfering with oxytocinergic activity in these regions significantly modifies these maternal behaviors.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
Prairie voles are the primary animal model for studying the formation of pair bonds.
“These rodents have served as the primary animal model for studying the formation of pair bonds (Insel and Young, 2001).”
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- Interpretationreasoning
These activities are associated with activity within multiple regions in the mesocorticolimbic pathway known to be critical in the processing of rewarding and motivationally salient stimuli.
“These activities are associated with activity within multiple regions in the mesocorticolimbic pathway known to be critical in the processing of rewarding and motivationally salient stimuli.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
Pair bond development is influenced by dopaminergic activity within the nucleus accumbens.
“Pair bond development is influenced by dopaminergic activity within the nucleus accumbens (Liu and Wang, 2003, Young et al., 1998).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked - Interpretationreasoning
Following parturition or treatment with oxytocin, pups are no longer regarded with disdain but rather as appetitive stimuli worth expending effort to obtain and care for.
“However, following parturition or treatment with oxytocin, pups are no longer regarded with disdain but rather as appetitive stimuli worth expending effort to obtain and care for.”
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Prairie voles have been shown to form pair bonds.
“One other mammalian species that has been shown to form pair bonds are prairie voles (Insel and Young, 2001).”
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- Premisecitation
D2-receptor agonists applied to the nucleus accumbens shell can induce partner preferences following short term cohabitation without mating.
“In situations where partner preferences would not necessarily be established, such as following short term cohabitation without mating, D2-receptor agonists applied to the nucleus accumbens shell can induce partner preferences (Aragona et al., 2006).”
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Activation of D1-like receptors can block the formation of pair bonds.
“Activation of D1-like receptors on the other hand can block the formation of such pair bonds (Aragona et al., 2006).”
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Monogamous prairie voles exhibit lower concentrations of D1-like receptors and higher concentrations of D2-like receptors within the medial prefrontal cortex compared to more promiscuous counterparts.
“For instance, monogamous prairie voles exhibit lower concentrations of D1-like receptors and higher concentrations of D2-like receptors within the medial prefrontal cortex compared to their more promiscuous counterparts (Smeltzer et al., 2006).”
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Following formation of a pair bond, D1-like receptor expression is increased in the nucleus accumbens in male prairie voles.
“Specifically, it appears that following the formation of a pair bond, D1-like receptor expression is increased in the nucleus accumbens in male prairie voles.”
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Pharmacologically blocking dopamine receptors by haloperidol prior to mating eliminates partner preference by males.
“Pharmacologically blocking dopamine receptors by haloperidol prior to mating results in an elimination in partner preference by males (Aragona et al., 2003).”
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- Premisecitation
The concentration of oxytocin receptors within the nucleus accumbens in female prairie voles is positively related to the speed at which they form partner preferences.
“Indeed, the concentration of oxytocin receptors within the nucleus accumbens in female prairie voles is positively related to the speed at which they form partner preferences (Ross et al., 2009).”
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- Premisecitation
Monogamous prairie voles show substantially higher oxytocin receptor concentrations within multiple areas including the nucleus accumbens, amygdala, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and prefrontal cortex compared to nonmonogamous montane voles.
“Monogamous prairie voles show substantially higher oxytocin receptor concentrations within multiple areas including within the nucleus accumbens, amygdala, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and prefrontal cortex compared to the nonmonogamous montane voles (Insel and Shapiro, 1992).”
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- Interpretationreasoning
Dopaminergic activity plays an influential role in the formation of pair bonds.
“Altogether these data indicate dopaminergic activity plays an influential role in the formation of pair bonds.”
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Application of oxytocin receptor antagonists into either the nucleus accumbens or prefrontal cortex can block mating-induced partner preferences in female prairie voles.
“Correspondingly, application of oxytocin receptor antagonists into either the nucleus accumbens or prefrontal cortex can block mating-induced partner preferences in female prairie voles (Young et al., 2001).”
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Multiple lines of evidence indicate oxytocin is also a key neurobiological substrate underlying the development of partner preferences.
“Multiple lines of evidence indicate oxytocin is also key neurobiological substrate underlying the development of partner preferences (see review Young and Wang, 2004).”
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- Premisecitation
Application of GABAergic or glutamatergic antagonists within the VTA can induce partner preferences in male prairie voles.
“Dopaminergic activity within the VTA may also contribute to pair bond formation as application of either GABAergic or glutamatergic antagonists within the VTA, both which presumably enhance dopamine release within the nucleus accumbens, can induce partner preferences in male prairie voles (Curtis and Wang, 2005).”
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Both D2 receptors and oxytocin receptors must be stimulated in order to facilitate the formation of partner preferences.
“For instance, it appears that both D2 receptors and oxytocin receptors must be stimulated in order to facilitate the formation of partner preferences (Liu and Wang, 2003).”
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Aron and colleagues observed heightened activation within the VTA and caudate in response to viewing a romantic partner over viewing a familiar person.
“This study observed heightened activation within the VTA and caudate in response to viewing a romantic partner over viewing a familiar person (Aron et al., 2005).”
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- Premisecitation
Chronic ICV administration of oxytocin receptor antagonists can reduce maternal aggression in strains of rats exhibiting high anxiety and higher levels of defensive aggression.
“Chronic ICV administration of oxytocin receptor antagonists can reduce maternal aggression in strains of rats exhibiting high anxiety and higher levels of defensive aggression (Bosch et al., 2005 but see Lubin et al., 2003).”
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Schneiderman and colleagues observed heightened plasma levels of oxytocin in new couples.
“In regards to the influence of oxytocin on such attachments, Schneiderman and colleagues observed heightened plasma levels of oxytocin in new couples (Schneiderman et al., 2012).”
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- Premisecitation
Maternal aggression peaks during lactation.
“Maternal aggression peaks during lactation, suggesting oxytocin may regulate this behavior (see review Bosch and Neumann, 2012).”
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- Premisecitation
Mothers will aggressively attack intruders approaching their offspring.
“Mothers will aggressively attack intruders approaching their offspring (Rosenblatt et al., 1994).”
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- Interpretationcitation
Both oxytocin and dopamine work together to influence partner preference formation in animals.
“In sum, these data suggest that both oxytocin and dopamine work together to influence partner preference formation in animals.”
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Higher concentration of oxytocin receptors within the lateral septum is associated with higher levels of aggression in rats.
“Higher concentration of oxytocin receptors within the lateral septum is associated with higher levels of aggression in rats (Caughey et al., 2011).”
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- Interpretationreasoning
Oxytocin may regulate maternal aggression.
“suggesting oxytocin may regulate this behavior (see review Bosch and Neumann, 2012).”
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- Premisecitation
Treatment with oxytocin had no effect on the social distance preferred when encountering unfamiliar males.
“However, treatment with oxytocin had no effect on the social distance preferred when encountering unfamiliar males (Scheele et al., 2012).”
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- Premisecitation
Blockade of D1 receptors in pair-bonded voles reduces aggressive behaviors towards unfamiliar females.
“Blockade of D1 receptors in these pair-bonded voles was observed to reduce aggressive behaviors towards unfamiliar females (Aragona et al., 2006).”
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- Premisecitation
Following successful pair bond formation, male prairie voles (and sometimes females) will actively attack strangers including sexually receptive females.
“following successful pair bond formation, male prairie voles (and sometimes females) will actively attack strangers including sexually receptive females (Aragona et al., 2006, Gobrogge et al., 2007, Insel et al., 1995, Wang et al., 1997, Winslow et al., 1993).”
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Prior to pair bonding, male prairie voles show little aggression toward strangers.
“Prior to pair bonding, male prairie voles show little aggression toward strangers”
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When heterosexual males in a relationship are treated with intranasal oxytocin, they preferred to keep attractive unfamiliar females at a greater distance relative to single men or men in relationships treated with placebo.
“Scheele and colleagues observed when heterosexual males in a relationship are treated with intranasal oxytocin, they preferred to keep attractive unfamiliar females at a greater distance relative to single men or men in relationships which had been treated with placebo (Scheele et al., 2012).”
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- Premisecitation
Oxytocin administration reduces the latency between intromission and ejaculation in male rats.
“Oxytocin administration reduces the latency between intromission and ejaculation in male rats (Carter, 1992).”
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Studies examining extracellular dopamine within the nucleus accumbens observe enhanced dopamine concentrations when shown a sexually receptive female behind a screen.
“Studies examining extracellular dopamine within the nucleus accumbens observe enhanced dopamine concentrations when shown a sexually receptive female behind a screen (Damsma et al., 1992, Pfaus et al., 1990).”
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Oxytocin can enhance both male and female sexual behavior.
“Oxytocin can enhance both male and female sexual behavior.”
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- cites Melis and Argiolas, 2011
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- Premisecitation
Injections of oxytocin ICV increase lordosis duration and lordosis quotient in female rodents.
“Injections of oxytocin ICV increase lordosis duration and lordosis quotient (ratio of lordosis responses to male mounts, with increases in this ratio reflecting increases in female receptivity; Benelli et al., 1994).”
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Male rats show preference for environments associated with the presence of females.
“Male rats show preference for environments associated with the presence of females (Everitt, 1990).”
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Dopaminergic release within the nucleus accumbens only appears to occur when females copulate according to their pacing preferences.
“Dopaminergic release within the nucleus accumbens only appears to occur when females copulate according to their pacing preferences (Becker et al., 2001, Jenkins and Becker, 2003a, Mermelstein and Becker, 1995).”
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- cites Jenkins and Becker, 2003a
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Oxytocin is released during sexual arousal and orgasm.
“Oxytocin is released during sexual arousal and orgasm (Blaicher et al., 1999, Burri et al., 2008, Carmichael et al., 1987, but see Kruger et al., 2003, Murphy et al., 1987).”
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Reductions in both lordosis duration and quotient are noted following injection of an oxytocin antagonist.
“Reductions in both lordosis duration and quotient are noted following injection of an oxytocin antagonist (Benelli et al., 1994).”
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Both men and women exhibited significant activation within ventral striatal regions in response to sexually arousing images.
“However, both men and women exhibited significant activation within ventral striatal regions in response to sexually arousing images (Hamann et al., 2004).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Hamann et al., 2004 source
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In humans, sexual arousal has been associated with increased neural activity within a number of regions within the motivational pathway including in the hypothalamus, striatum, amygdala insula, frontal cortex and cingulate.
“In humans, sexual arousal has been associated with increased neural activity within a number of regions within the motivational pathway including in the hypothalamus, striatum, amygdala insula, frontal cortex and cingulate (Arnow et al., 2002, Hamann et al., 2004, Karama et al., 2002, Park et al., 2001, Rauch et al., 1999, Redoute et al., 2000, Stoleru et al., 1999).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked - Premisecitation
Oxytocin has been shown to enhance memory for happy faces relative to angry and neutral faces.
“For instance, oxytocin has been shown to enhance memory for happy faces relative to angry and neutral faces (Guastella et al., 2008).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Guastella et al., 2008 source
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- Interpretationreasoning
With recent data showing oxytocin can also increase elicited aggressive behaviors it now appears the effect of oxytocin is much more complex.
“First considered simply as a prosocial hormone, with recent data showing oxytocin can also increase elicited aggressive behaviors it now appears the effect of oxytocin is much more complex.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
Oxytocin clearly plays a central role in social behavior.
“Oxytocin clearly plays a central role in social behavior; however, researchers are still trying to grasp the main mechanism behind oxytocin’s effects.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationnone given
Animals treated with oxytocin will increase the amount of effort they are willing to exert to gain access to appetitive social agents, even at the expense of obtaining other forms of reward like food or drugs.
“Indeed, animals treated with oxytocin will increase the amount of effort they are willing to exert to gain access to appetitive social agents, even at the expense of obtaining other forms of reward like food or drugs.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Premisecitation
Oxytocin administration has been shown to enhance memory for social but not non-social stimuli.
“Furthermore, oxytocin administration has been shown to enhance memory for social but not non-social stimuli (Rimmele et al., 2009).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Rimmele et al., 2009 source
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Oxytocin administration has been shown to orient attention toward faces, particularly the eye region.
“For instance, oxytocin administration has been shown to orient attention toward faces, particularly the eye region (see Bartz et al., 2011, Kemp and Guastella, 2011).”
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In rodents, virgin rats' behavior towards pups can switch from aggressive or apathetic to affiliative through oxytocin administration.
“For instance, in rodents, virgin rats’ behavior towards pups can switch from aggressive or apathetic to affiliative through oxytocin administration (Pedersen et al., 1982).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Pedersen et al., 1982 source
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- Interpretationreasoning
By modulating activity within this dopaminergic network, oxytocin may encourage alterations in both salience and valence assignment.
“Thus by modulating activity within this dopaminergic network, oxytocin may encourage alterations in both salience and valence assignment.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
In the case of pair-bonding, an appetitive to aversive shift is seen in male voles behavior towards unfamiliar sexually receptive females following successful pair bonding.
“Or in the case of pair-bonding, an appetitive to aversive shift is seen in male voles behavior towards unfamiliar sexually receptive females following successful pair bonding (Aragona and Wang, 2009).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Aragona and Wang, 2009
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PremisecitationOxytocin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that acts as a complex neuromodulator capable of affecting a wide range of social and reproductive behaviors including pair bonding, maternal, affiliative and sexual behaviors.
“oxytocin is a highly influential neuropeptide known to significantly impact a variety of social and reproductive behaviors including pair bonding, as well as maternal, affiliative and sexual behaviors (see Burkett and Young, 2012, Campbell, 2010, Donaldson and Young, 2008, Lee et al., 2009, Meyer-Lindenberg et al., 2011).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checkedMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationDistinct populations of dopamine neurons encode motivational value, whereby certain dopamine neurons are excited by appetitive stimuli, which promote approach, and inhibited by aversive stimuli, which promote withdrawal.
“distinct populations of dopamine neurons encode: 1) motivational value, whereby certain dopamine neurons are excited by appetitive stimuli, which promote approach, and inhibited by aversive stimuli, which promote withdrawal”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Bromberg-Martin et al., 2010 source
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Premisenone givenThe mesocorticolimbic dopamine system is crucial not only for reward and motivated behavior but also for the expression of affiliative behaviors.
“which is crucial not only for reward and motivated behavior but also for the expression of affiliative behaviors.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationOxytocin stimulation of the amygdala and hippocampus can lead to penile erection and increases in extracellular dopamine within the nucleus accumbens in rats.
“Oxytocin stimulation of the amygdala and hippocampus can also lead to penile erection and increases in extracellular dopamine within the nucleus accumbens in rats (Melis et al., 2009).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Melis et al., 2009
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PremisecitationOxytocin injected into the VTA induces penile erections in rats and stimulates extracellular dopamine increases within the nucleus accumbens.
“Oxytocin injected into the VTA induces penile erections in rats and stimulates extracellular dopamine increases within the nucleus accumbens, which receives dopaminergic projections from the VTA (Melis et al., 2007, Succu et al., 2008).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites Melis et al., 2007
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PremisecitationApplication of an oxytocin receptor antagonist via ICV injection significantly diminishes dopamine agonist stimulated dopaminergic release in the nucleus accumbens and the pro-erectile effect of dopamine.
“Application of an oxytocin receptor antagonist via intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection significantly diminishes dopamine agonist stimulated dopaminergic release in the nucleus accumbens and the pro-erectile effect of dopamine (Succu et al., 2007).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Succu et al., 2007
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InterpretationreasoningDopamine plays primary roles in salience attribution and oxytocin is capable of affecting this activity.
“This fits well with the notion that dopamine plays primary roles in salience attribution and oxytocin is capable of affecting this activity.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: Social stimuli are processed as motivationally relevant stimuli by the mesocorticolimbic system.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationOxytocin can induce yawning when injected into the amygdala, hippocampus and VTA, and this behavior occurs concurrently with increases in extracellular dopamine within the nucleus accumbens as well as the medial prefrontal cortex, which is blocked by ICV injections of oxytocin receptor antagonists.
“More recent work has also demonstrated that oxytocin can also induce yawning when injected into the amygdala, hippocampus and VTA and this behavior occurs concurrently with increases in extracellular dopamine within the nucleus accumbens as well as the medial prefrontal cortex, which is blocked by ICV injections of oxytocin receptor antagonists (see review (Sanna et al., 2012).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Sanna et al., 2012
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PremisecitationLactating and recently parturient rodents will exert intense effort to gain access to pups while virgin female rats will tend to avoid or show aggression towards pups when first exposed to them.
“Lactating and recently parturient rodents will exert intense effort to gain access to pups while virgin female rats will tend to avoid or show aggression towards pups when first exposed to them (Fleming and Anderson, 1987, Fleming and Rosenblatt, 1974, Jakubowski and Terkel, 1985a, b, but note differences in laboratory mouse strains, Lonstein and De Vries, 2000, Noirot, 1972).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Fleming and Anderson, 1987
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- cites Fleming and Rosenblatt, 1974
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- cites Jakubowski and Terkel, 1985a
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PremisecitationDams prefer to spend time in areas previously associated with pups and exhibit preferences for cues associated with pups over those associated with drugs of abuse such as cocaine.
“Dams also prefer to spend time in areas previously associated with pups (i.e. conditioned place preference) and exhibit preferences for cues associated with pups over those associated with drugs of abuse such as cocaine (Ferris et al., 2005, Mattson et al., 2001, Mattson et al., 2003).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Ferris et al., 2005
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PremisecitationDopamine is released within the nucleus accumbens when a mother rat grooms or licks her offspring or after being reunited with her offspring after forced separation.
“Dopamine is released within the nucleus accumbens when a mother rat grooms or licks her offspring or after being reunited with her offspring after forced separation (Champagne et al., 2004, Hansen et al., 1993).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checkedMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationOxytocin receptor knockout postpartum mice show higher latencies to retrieve pups placed at the corners of the cage and spend less time in nursing postures.
“Further, oxytocin receptor knockout postpartum mice show higher latencies to retrieve pups placed at the corners of the cage and spend less time in nursing postures (Takayanagi et al., 2005, but also see Nishimori et al., 1996).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checkedMay combine two claims.
InterpretationcitationThe amygdala activation in mothers hearing infant crying is significantly attenuated following treatment by intranasal oxytocin and is suggested to reflect the stress-reducing effects of oxytocin that may help promote responsiveness to crying infants.
“This amygdala activation is significantly attenuated following treatment by intranasal oxytocin and is suggested to reflect the stress-reducing effects of oxytocin that may help promote responsiveness to crying infants (Riem et al., 2011).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Riem et al., 2011 source
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- Rests on an assumption: Findings from animal models about oxytocin-dopamine interactions and maternal behavior generalize to humans.
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PremisecitationOxytocin, which is released during breast-feeding, has been demonstrated to lower reactivity of the HPA axis reducing levels of stress hormones including ACTH and cortisol, which may promote maternal care.
“Indeed, oxytocin, which is released during breast-feeding, has been demonstrated to lower reactivity of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis reducing levels of stress hormones including adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol, which may promote maternal care (see reviews by Heinrichs et al., 2009, Neumann and Landgraf, 2012, Uvnas-Moberg, 1997).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Heinrichs et al., 2009 source
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- cites Neumann and Landgraf, 2012
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PremisecitationNeural activity within hypothalamus was engaged in response to mothers viewing their own child's face versus an unknown child's face and this activity was significantly correlated with plasma oxytocin responses induced by physical interaction with their baby.
“Neural activity within hypothalamus was engaged in response to mothers viewing their own child’s face versus an unknown child’s face and this activity was significantly correlated with plasma oxytocin responses induced by physical interaction with their baby (Strathearn et al., 2009).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Strathearn et al., 2009 source
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- Rests on an assumption: Findings from animal models about oxytocin-dopamine interactions and maternal behavior generalize to humans.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningIn addition to promoting increased salience attribution towards offspring, oxytocin may also encourage a shift in valence assignment.
“In addition to promoting increased salience attribution towards offspring, oxytocin may also encourage a shift in valence assignment.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationDopamine neurotransmission is increased within the nucleus accumbens of prairie voles following mating and these increases are necessary for the formation of partner preference in males.
“Dopamine neurotransmission is increased within the nucleus accumbens of prairie voles following mating and these increases are necessary for the formation of partner preference formation in males (Aragona et al., 2003).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Aragona et al., 2003 source
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InterpretationreasoningIn sum, these data indicate infants are highly salient and mothers will devote a great deal of time and energy obtaining access to their offspring and show preferences for stimuli associated with them.
“In sum, these data indicate infants are highly salient and mothers will devote a great deal of time and energy obtaining access to their offspring and show preferences for stimuli associated with them.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationMale prairie voles display partner preferences for specific females following prolonged mating and exhibit aggression towards female strangers after extended cohabitation.
“Males will display partner preferences for specific females following prolonged mating and exhibit aggression towards female strangers after extended cohabitation (Aragona et al., 2006).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Aragona et al., 2006 source
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PremisecitationPair bonded male prairie voles exhibit affiliative behavior towards mates and aggressive behavior towards strangers that can be blocked through antagonism of D1-like receptors within the nucleus accumbens.
“Pair bonded males will then exhibit affiliative behavior towards their mates while expressing aggressive behavior towards strangers that can be blocked through antagonism of D1-like receptors within the nucleus accumbens (Aragona and Wang, 2009).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Aragona and Wang, 2009
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PremisecitationICV administration of oxytocin or injection of oxytocin directly into the nucleus accumbens can induce partner preferences in absence of mating.
“For instance, ICV administration of oxytocin or injection of oxytocin directly into the nucleus accumbens can induce partner preferences in absence of mating (Cho et al., 1999).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Cho et al., 1999 source
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PremisecitationHigher plasma oxytocin levels were associated with higher levels of interaction between the couples and predicted which couples would remain together 6 months later.
“Higher plasma oxytocin levels were associated with higher levels of interaction between the couples and predicted which couples would remain together 6 months later (Schneiderman et al., 2012).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Schneiderman et al., 2012 source
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PremisecitationInjection of a D2-receptor antagonist into the nucleus accumbens of female prairie voles can prevent partner preference formation induced by oxytocin and oxytocin antagonists can block partner preference formation induced by D2-receptor agonist administration.
“Injection of a D2-receptor antagonist into the nucleus accumbens of female prairie voles can prevent partner preference formation induced by oxytocin and oxytocin antagonists can block partner preference formation induced by D2-receptor agonist administration (Liu and Wang, 2003).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Liu and Wang, 2003 source
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InterpretationreasoningSystems normally engaged for the processing of motivationally relevant appetitive stimuli are also involved in the formation of pair bonds and can be regulated by oxytocin.
“In short, these data and data obtained from animal work indicate systems normally engaged for the processing of motivationally relevant appetitive stimuli are also involved in the formation of pair bonds and can be regulated by oxytocin.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationIn Liu et al. 2012, participants displayed an increased preference for people they had been introduced to immediately following administration of oxytocin, however, the choices made were not directed toward persons of the opposite gender.
“Participants displayed an increased preference for people they had been introduced to immediately following administration of oxytocin, however, the choices made were not directed toward persons of the opposite gender.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Liu et al., 2012
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PremisecitationOxytocin release occurs during maternal defensive aggression and the volume of release within the hypothalamus and amygdala is related to the amount of aggressive behavior displayed.
“Oxytocin release occurs during maternal defensive aggression and the volume of release within the hypothalamus and amygdala is related to the amount of aggressive behavior displayed (Bosch et al., 2005).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Bosch et al., 2005
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PremisecitationThis behavior is mediated by increased expression of D1 receptors within the nucleus accumbens, which occurs following extended exposure to the pair-bonded partner and is hypothesized to antagonize the formation of a second pair bond.
“This behavior is mediated by increased expression of D1 receptors within the nucleus accumbens, which occurs following extended exposure to the pair-bonded partner and is hypothesized to antagonize the formation of a second pair bond (Aragona et al., 2006).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Aragona et al., 2006 source
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PremisecitationPair bonding in prairie voles is characterized by the display of increased preferences of one's mate and aggressive behavior towards unfamiliar conspecifics.
“Pair bonding in prairie voles is characterized by the display of increased preferences of one’s mate and aggressive behavior towards unfamiliar conspecifics (Aragona and Wang, 2009).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Aragona and Wang, 2009
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PremisecitationWhile some studies associate increases in oxytocin activity with higher levels of maternal aggression, others have reported the opposite.
“While these studies give the impression that increases in oxytocin activity are associated with higher levels of maternal aggression in these studies, others have reported the opposite (e.g. Giovenardi et al., 1998, Nephew et al., 2009).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites Giovenardi et al., 1998
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InterpretationcitationOxytocin serves to enhance the salience of social cues, and possibly through its influence on dopaminergic processes, also appears to influence shifts in valence attribution, resulting in the repelling of some social entities while drawing others closer.
“So while there is significant evidence that oxytocin serves to enhance the salience of social cues, oxytocin, possibly through its influence on dopaminergic processes, also appears to influence shifts in valence attribution as well; resulting in the repelling of some social entities while drawing others closer.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationD2 receptor antagonists infused into the nucleus accumbens increase the amount of time between mounts and intromissions, but not the rate of copulation; as such D2 antagonism is interpreted as reducing the appetitive but not consummatory aspects of sexual behavior.
“D2 receptor antagonists infused into the nucleus accumbens increase the amount of time between mounts and intromissions, but not the rate of copulation; as such D2 antagonism is interpreted as reducing the appetitive but not consummatory aspects of sexual behavior (Everitt, 1990).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Everitt, 1990
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PremisecitationOxytocin can also influence social interactions between peers and strangers and appears to play essential roles in the identification and interpretation of social information.
“Oxytocin can also influence social interactions between peers and strangers and appears to play essential roles in the identification and interpretation of social information.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checkedMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationOxytocin administration into the hippocampus or medial preoptic area of the hypothalamus enhances social recognition, while ICV administration of oxytocin antagonists can result in social recognition deficits.
“While oxytocin administration into the hippocampus or medial preoptic area of the hypothalamus enhances social recognition (i.e. reduced investigation time of a fellow rat encountered for the second time), ICV administration of oxytocin antagonists can result in social recognition deficits (Popik and van Ree, 1991, van Wimersma Greidanus and Maigret, 1996).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites Popik and van Ree, 1991
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- cites van Wimersma Greidanus and Maigret, 1996
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PremisecitationEnhancement of oxytocin levels by intranasal administration prior to orgasm by masturbation results in increased catecholamine levels in the blood, heightened heart rate and increased perception of arousability.
“Enhancement of oxytocin levels by intranasal administration prior to orgasm by masturbation results in increased catecholamine levels in the blood, heightened heart rate and increased perception of arousability (Burri et al., 2008).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Burri et al., 2008 source
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PremisecitationOxytocin knockout mice exhibit social recognition impairments, however, these impairments can be reversed by oxytocin infusion into medial amygdala, indicating special involvement of the amygdala in this process.
“Oxytocin knockout mice also exhibit social recognition impairments, however, these impairments can be reversed by oxytocin infusion into medial amygdala, indicating special involvement of the amygdala in this process (Choleris et al., 2003, Ferguson et al., 2001, Ferguson et al., 2000).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checkedMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningOxytocin, dopamine and regions within the motivational circuitry contribute to the appetitive aspects of sexual behavior and may regulate the degree of reward experienced during sexual encounters.
“In sum, the data obtained from preclinical and human research studies indicate oxytocin, dopamine and regions within the motivational circuitry contribute to the appetitive aspects of sexual behavior and may regulate the degree of reward experienced during sexual encounters.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationOxytocin improves the detection and classification of positive social and emotional stimuli but not for negative stimuli.
“For instance, oxytocin improves the detection and classification of positive social and emotional stimuli but not for negative stimuli (see Kemp and Guastella, 2011).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Kemp and Guastella, 2011 source
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PremisecitationOxytocin administration was associated with increases in altruistic responses to members within the 'ingroup' but increases in aggressive behavior towards members within the 'outgroup'.
“De Dreu and colleagues reported that oxytocin administration was associated with increases in altruistic responses to members within the ‘ingroup’ but increases in aggressive behavior towards members within the ‘outgroup’ (De Dreu et al., 2012).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites De Dreu et al., 2012
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Interpretationnone givenIn rodents, oxytocin increases positive social behaviors towards offspring and mates (i.e. in-group) but also increases aggression towards strangers and conspecifics (i.e. out-group).
“In rodents, for example, oxytocin increases positive social behaviors towards offspring and mates (i.e. in-group) but also increases aggression towards strangers and conspecifics (i.e. out-group).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningSupport for the social salience theory comes from studies showing oxytocin administration leads to increased attention and orientation towards social stimuli, enhanced memory for social stimuli over non-social stimuli, and improved social recognition.
“Support for this theory comes from the myriad of studies showing oxytocin administration leads to increased attention and orientation towards social stimuli, enhanced memory for social stimuli over non-social stimuli, and improved social recognition.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationDomes and colleagues reported oxytocin enhances eye gaze in happy and neutral stimuli but decreases in angry faces.
“Domes and colleagues have recently reported oxytocin enhances eye gaze in happy and neutral stimuli but decreases in angry faces (Domes et al., 2012).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Domes et al., 2012
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PremisecitationOxytocin suppresses amygdala activation for fearful faces but enhances activity for happy faces.
“In addition, oxytocin suppresses amygdala activation for fearful faces but enhances activity for happy faces (Gamer et al., 2010).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Gamer et al., 2010 source
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PremisecitationOxytocin administration has also been observed to improve recognition of positive facial expressions but not negative.
“Oxytocin administration has also been observed to improve recognition of positive facial expressions but not negative (Marsh et al., 2010, but see Fischer-Shofty et al., 2010).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checkedClassified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationSignals within certain subpopulations of dopamine neurons are hypothesized to encode motivational salience while others carry signal relating to the motivational value.
“As discussed above, signals within certain subpopulations of dopamine neurons are hypothesized to encode motivational salience while others carry signal relating to the motivational value (appetitive versus aversive; Bromberg-Martin et al., 2010).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Bromberg-Martin et al., 2010 source
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PremisecitationGamer and colleagues found that oxytocin's effects on amygdala activity elicited by emotional faces was dependent on the valence of stimuli but the effects of oxytocin on enhancement of gaze shifts towards the eyes was valence independent.
“Gamer and colleagues found that oxytocin’s effects on amygdala activity elicited by emotional faces was dependent on the valence of stimuli but the effects of oxytocin on enhancement of gaze shifts towards the eyes was valence independent (Gamer et al., 2010).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Gamer et al., 2010 source
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InterpretationreasoningThrough its interactions with the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system, oxytocin both enhances motivational salience attributions towards social stimuli and provokes shifts in motivational value.
“Another possibility is that through its interactions with the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system, oxytocin both enhances motivational salience attributions towards social stimuli and provokes shifts in motivational value.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
The paper relies on this without support.
Findings from animal models about oxytocin-dopamine interactions and maternal behavior generalize to humans.
“Though most of the work performed in this area has been done using animal models, several neuroimaging studies suggest similar relationships may be observed in humans.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Social stimuli are processed as motivationally relevant stimuli by the mesocorticolimbic system.
“each region within the mesocorticolimbic pathway is hypothesized to play essential roles in the processing of motivationally relevant stimuli including salient social stimuli.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Humans are capable of forming long-lasting monogamous pair bonds.
“Humans, unlike most mammals, are capable of forming long-lasting monogamous pair bonds.”
Claims other papers make about this one
Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?
The NAc integrates social memories and contextual information from hippocampus, goal-directed information from PFC, and emotional valence from amygdala to influence behavioral output through projections to ventral pallidum.
“The NAc integrates social memories and contextual information from hippocampus, goal-directed information from prefrontal cortex (PFC), and emotional valence from amygdala to influence an organism’s behavioral output through its projections to the ventral pallidum [23].”
From Translational opportunities for circuit-based social neuroscience: advancing 21st century psychiatry (2021) · cites this paper as [23]
Interactions with the oxytocin system extend beyond the opioid pathway, including the dopaminergic and muscarinic acetylcholine circuits, with possible implications for social behavior and psychiatric disorders.
“The interactions with the oxytocin system extend beyond the opioid pathway, including the dopaminergic17,18 and muscarinic acetylcholine12,19 circuits, with possible implications for social behavior and psychiatric disorders.”
From Oxytocin pathway gene networks in the human brain (2019) · cites this paper as [17]
Data from both co-expression and meta-analytic analyses provide converging evidence that oxytocin may exert its effects synergistically with the dopaminergic network.
“Data from both our co-expression and meta-analytic analyses provides converging evidence that oxytocin may exert its effects synergistically with the dopaminergic network17.”
From Oxytocin pathway gene networks in the human brain (2019) · cites this paper as [17]
Our findings corroborate emerging evidence for interactions between the oxytocin, acetylcholine, and dopaminergic signaling systems.
“Altogether, our findings corroborate emerging evidence for interactions between the oxytocin, acetylcholine12, and dopaminergic signaling systems17.”
From Oxytocin pathway gene networks in the human brain (2019) · cites this paper as [17]
A current leading theory rests on neurological evidence that oxytocin modulates mesolimbic dopaminergic neurons, thereby affecting both incentive motivation and attention re-orienting.
“A current leading theory to account for why OT can stimulate both prosocial and anti-social behaviors rests on neurological evidence that OT modulates mesolimbic dopaminergic neurons, thereby affecting both incentive motivation as well as attention re-orienting.”
From A registered replication study on oxytocin and trust (2020) · cites this paper as [35]
By boosting the dopaminergic signal in the mesolimbic network, oxytocin is thought to enhance the salience of social cues that emphasize the value of approach behavior.
“By boosting the dopaminergic signal in the mesolimbic network, OT is thought to enhance the salience of social cues that emphasize the value of approach behavior 7,35,36 .”
From A registered replication study on oxytocin and trust (2020) · cites this paper as [35]
The co-release of dopamine and oxytocin associated with repeated interactions with a specific partner contributes to additional reward-driven learning about romantic behaviors.
“The co-release of dopamine and oxytocin associated with repeated interactions with a specific partner contributes to additional reward-driven learning about romantic behaviors.”
From Becoming a sexual being: The “elephant in the room” of adolescent brain development (2017) · cites this paper as Love, 2013
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References 229 · Cited by 369
- Authors
- Love, T. M.
- Affiliations
- University of Michigan (US)
- Corresponding author
- Love, Tiffany M.
- ORCID
- Love, Tiffany M.
- Venue
- Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior
- Publisher
- Elsevier BV
- Published
- 2014-04
- Volume
- 119
- Pages
- 49-60
- ISSN
- 0091-3057 (ISSN-L)
- PMC
- PMC3877159
- OpenAlex
- W2072083924
- Semantic Scholar
- a45f658082e85bdbfa217fc89c6225b638ce7676
- Cited by
- 369
- References
- 229
- Citations by year
- 2026: 16 · 2025: 44 · 2024: 37 · 2023: 39 · 2022: 29 · 2021: 34 · 2020: 30 · 2019: 20 · 2018: 27 · 2017: 27 · 2016: 26 · 2015: 25 · 2014: 12 · 2013: 3
- FWCI
- 2.88
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- green
- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Locations
- Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior (publishedVersion)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- Europe PMC (PubMed Central) (acceptedVersion)
- PubMed Central (acceptedVersion)
- Funders
- National Center for Research Resources (UL1RR024986)
- Topics
- Social Sciences › Psychology › Social Psychology › Neuroendocrine regulation and behavior
- Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience › Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior
- Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience › Neuropeptides and Animal Physiology
- Keywords
- oxytocin, motivation, dopamine, mesocorticolimbic dopamine system, affiliative behavior, social behavior, pair bonding, parental behavior, reward
- MeSH terms
- Animals, Behavior, Animal, Dopamine, Motivation, Oxytocin, Social Behavior
About these checks
Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.
Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-09.
Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-09.
Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.
Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.
What counts as a claim ›How we measure confidence ›How we check this ›
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