Neuropeptides, Altruism, and Adverse Childhood Experiences: Investigating Biological and Behavioral Correlations in Medical Students.

ABSTRACT: Background/Objectives: This pilot study aimed to investigate the relationship between salivary neuropeptides levels, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and altruism in a sample of medical students. Additionally, the study examined potential sex differences in these relationships. Methods: Sixty medical students (36.6% men, 63.3% women) provided saliva samples to measure oxytocin, α-MSH, β-endorphin, neurotensin, and substance P using a custom 5-plex human peptide assay. Participants completed the ACE Survey and Compassionate Love Scale for Humanity (CLS-H) Altruism Survey. Descriptive statistics characterized demographics and survey data, with out-of-range values adjusted to the standard curve maximum. Data normality was assessed with the Jarque-Bera test; due to non-norma

SUBMITTER: Khong J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12564630 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature