Prolactin

Also known as:  Lactogenic Hormone;  Luteotrophic Hormone (LTH);  Luteotrophin

Prolactin is a Hormone that is synthesized, stored in, and released from the anterior Pituitary Gland.  The biological implications of Prolactin are opposite to those of Human Growth Hormone.

Sexual System

 Prolactin stimulates Lactation in women after childbirth (by stimulating the production of Progesterone within female Ovaries).

Excessive Prolactin levels are known as Hyperprolactinaemia or Hyperprolactinemia.

Immune System

 Excessive production/release of Prolactin may increase the risk of Breast Cancer.  ^[1]

 Excessive production/release of Prolactin may suppress the Immune System.

 Prolactin is involved in the activation of the cells (by Estrogens) that are involved in autoimmunity in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).  Reducing Prolactin levels is therefore beneficial for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus patients.

 Excessive production/release of Prolactin is speculated to contribute to the proliferation of Prostate Cancer cells:  ^[2]

 Research indicates that Prolactin is involved in excessive growth of the Prostate and that a rising level of serum Prolactin is associated with further progression of Prostate Cancer in patients in advanced stages of this form of Cancer.

Metabolism

 Prolactin may stimulate the formation of Adipose Tissue.

 Excessive production/release of Prolactin may contribute to Obesity (as Prolactin increases Adipose Tissue formation).

Sexual System

 Excessive production and secretion of Prolactin may cause Amenorrhea.

 Excessive Prolactin production may cause Gynecomastia (female-like Breast development) in males.

 Excessive production/secretion of Prolactin may cause Female Infertility.