The role of nitric oxide, reactive oxygen species, and protein kinase C in oxytocin-induced cardioprotection in ischemic rat heart

► There has an increased interest in mechanisms involved in oxytocin cardioprotection in recent years. ► We planned oxytocin effects against I/R via NO, ROS, and PKC in the preconditioned myocardium. ► Oxytocin benefit effects were abolished by L-NAME, chelerythrine, and N-acetylcysteine. ► The beneficial effects of oxytocin were achieved via NO release, PKC activation, and ROS balance.