Key Findings:  This study looked at gut motility and permeability in rats to determine the role of oxytocin in leaky gut syndromes. Results found oxytocin centrally acts in the brain leading to reduced colon hyperpermeability, and that vagus nerve cholinergic, and therefore cannabinoid 1 receptors, play an important role in gut signaling and regulation. These results may have implications for autism disorder and irritable bowel syndrome.
Type of Study:  Animal Study
Study Result:  Positive
Research Location(s):  Japan
Year of Pub:  2022
Cannabinoids Studied:  Endocannabinoid (unspecified)
Phytocannabinoid Source:  Not Applicable
Receptors Studied:  CB1
Ligands Studied:  Ghrelin, Oxytocin
Citation:  Okumura T, et al. Oxytocin acts centrally in the brain to improve leaky gut through the vagus nerve and a cannabinoid signaling in rats. Physiol Behav. 2022; 254:113914. doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2022.113914
Authors:  Okumura T, Nozu T, Ishioh M, Igarashi S, Funayama T, Kumei S, Ohhira M