Oxytocin protects cardiomyocytes from apoptosis induced by ischemia-reperfusion in rat heart: Role of mitochondrial ATP-dependent potassium channel and permeability transition pore

► The current study examines the protective effect of oxytocin (OT) on apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. ► We using immunohistochemistry studies and transmission electron microscopy showed that oxytocin decreases apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. ► Our findings suggest that oxytocin cardioprotective role mediated by the mitochondrial ATP-dependent potassium channel and permeability transition pore modulation.