Abstract

Objectives Based on its well-documented anti-inflammatory and restorative properties we propose trials with the natural hormone oxytocin for treatment of hospitalised Covid-19 patients. Methods We searched for, retrieved, and commented on specific literature regarding multiple functions of oxytocin with a special focus on its modulation of inflammatory, immune, and restorative functions. Results Available data gathered in animals and humans support the anti-inflammatory properties of oxytocin. The multiple anti-inflammatory effects of oxytocin have been demonstrated in vitro and in vivo in various animal models and also in humans in response to intravenous infusion of oxytocin. Furthermore, oxytocin has been documented to activate several types of protective and restorative mechanisms and to exert positive effects on the immune system. Conclusions In addition, to being anti-inflammatory, it may be hypothesised, that oxytocin may be less suppressive on adaptive immune systems, as compared with glucocorticoids. Finally, by its restorative effects coupled with its anti-stress and healing properties, oxytocin may shorten the recovery period of the Covid-19 patients.

Keywords

Oxytocin; inflammation; anti-inflammatory; immune system; restorative; Covid-19; clinical trials

Published in

The World Journal of Biological Psychiatry
2021, Volume: 22, number: 5, pages: 387-398
Publisher: TAYLOR AND FRANCIS LTD

SLU Authors

• Uvnäs-Moberg, Kerstin

  • Department of Applied Animal Science and Welfare, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

UKÄ Subject classification

Immunology in the medical area


Publication identifier

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/15622975.2020.1814408

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/108096