Oxytocin is a neuropeptide known for its role in social behavior. An increasing number of studies suggest that it may also have therapeutic potential in Alzheimer’s disease (AD); however, its function in the context of this disorder has not yet been sufficiently clarified.
In this project, we use rodent models of AD to evaluate the effects of oxytocin on social behavior and social memory—domains that are often impaired already in the early stages of the disease. We focus on two key periods of AD progression: the early stage with initial accumulation of Aβ plaques, and the later stage with pronounced neurodegeneration.
We monitor oxytocin levels, changes in neuronal activity in the hippocampus, the extent of the inflammatory response, and beta-amyloid burden. In addition to behavioral testing and immunohistochemistry, we also employ electrophysiology and chemogenetics to determine whether modulation of oxytocin pathways can restore social memory.
Supported by grant GA25-16227S from the Czech Science Foundation.
