Exposure to chronic isolation modulates receptors mRNAs for oxytocin and vasopressin in the hypothalamus and heart

► We examined the effect of repeated or chronic isolation on mRNAs for AVP and OT receptors in prairie voles. ► Chronic isolation increases plasma oxytocin in females and down-regulates OT receptor mRNAs in both sexes. ► Repeated isolation increased plasma AVP, which could be adaptive in response to stressor. ► The differential effects of isolation on OT and AVP systems help in understanding mechanisms through social interactions can be protective against emotional disorders.