Preparation of S,S'-Dibenzyloxytocin and Its Reconversion to Oxytocin.*

Abstract
The benzylation of oxytocin by reduction with metallic Na in liquid ammonia and subsequent treatment with benzyl chloride results in the formation of an S,S[image]-dibenzyl derivative which is biologically inactive. The activity is regenerated by reduction of benzylated oxytocin with Na in liquid ammonia and a comparison of the material, after oxidation, with oxytocin itself led to the conclusion that the biologically active material so formed represents oxytocin.
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