Modulation of neuronal oxytocin – effects on social behaviour

Metallo‐peptidases cleave amino acids from either the N‐ and C‐termini of peptide hormones to either generate or degrade biologically active peptides. These enzymes play important roles in the body and alterations in their activities can impact on a diverse range of physiological processes in both healthy and diseased states. This project is focussed on one such enzyme known as insulin‐regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) or oxytocinase. Oxytocin is known as the social hormone, regulating complex social behaviours including promoting trust, pair‐bonding and has been explored as potential therapy for social behaviour impairments observed with autism spectrum disorders. This project will investigate the behavioural phenotypes in the oxytocinase deficient mice to determine if regulation of endogenous oxytocin levels will affect social behaviour.