How oxytocin affects parenting and social behavior in mice

Functional organization and plasticity of the oxytocin system for single or communal parenting in mice

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10912577

This study is looking at how a special brain chemical called oxytocin affects parenting and social interactions in mice, to see how differences in this system might change how well they bond and care for their young.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10912577 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of oxytocin, a neuropeptide linked to social behaviors like parenting and bonding, in mice. It aims to understand how different aspects of the oxytocin system may vary among individuals and how these differences influence parenting abilities and social interactions. By using advanced neural recording techniques and behavioral monitoring, the study will observe how oxytocin release is affected by factors such as sex, experience, and social context. The findings could provide insights into the biological underpinnings of parenting and social behavior.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for potential benefit from this research include individuals with autism spectrum disorders or social anxiety who may respond to oxytocin-based therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have social behavior challenges or related conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for conditions like autism spectrum disorders and social anxiety by targeting the oxytocin system.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in using oxytocin to improve social behaviors, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Autistic Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.