Non-Mammalian Models for Neurohypophysial Peptides

Summary Oxytocin (OXT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) are evolutionarily conserved neuropeptides from nematodes to humans. This conservation is exemplified at the level of the neuropeptide sequence as well as their receptors and functions. Oxytocin and arginine vasopressin are involved in the maintenance of homeostatic functions such as water, salt, energy balance, and reproductive physiology as well as social and sexual behaviors. For the last century, the investigation of these neuropeptides in non-mammalian organisms has been pivotal in laying the foundations for the field of neuroendocrinology. Studying these model organisms has contributed to our basic understanding of the neuropeptides’ physiological functions and mechanisms of action. Using non-mammalian models combined with recent advancements in molecular genetics and imaging technologies will further allow us to unravel mechanisms underlying the development and function of the oxytocin/arginine vasopressin systems, including their cell biology, neuronal circuit function, and their physiological and behavioral outputs.