The Prolactin and Non-endocrine Diseases

Clinical Center of Endocrinology and Gerontology, Medical University-Sofia

 

Abstract:

Prolactin is a hormone stimulating milk se-cretion and reproductive function. Its biological activity is mediated by specific receptors making part of cytokine receptor family. Prolactin effect on the immune system and oncogenesis is still not well enough clarified. In this review literature data concerning the role played by prolactin in the gen-esis and development of some autoimmune disor-ders and tumors are summarized. Its action at en-docrine, as well as at auto- and paracrine levels is discussed.

As shown by the results, changes in prolac¬tin secretion against the background of autoimmune diseases and tumors involving breast, prostate, rec¬tum etc may have both diagnostic and therapeutic implications.

Further studies along this lines are needed to clarify whether or not prolactin may be considered as a marker of pathological processes, or a factor promoting their occurrence and develop¬ment with a view to undertake eventual medical treatment.

 

Keywords: prolactin, autoimmune dis­eases, cytokine receptors, oncogenesis, breast can­cer.