Prolactin is a hormone primarily known for its role in milk production in mammals, but it has over 300 functions in the body. It plays crucial roles in reproductive health, metabolism, immune system regulation, and behavioral processes.
In humans, prolactin is primarily produced by lactotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland, where it is stored and then released into the bloodstream. However, prolactin is also produced in smaller amounts in other tissues, including the uterus, immune cells, brain, breasts, prostate, skin, and fat.
The wide range of prolactin’s functions highlights its importance beyond lactation, influencing various physiological processes like fertility, immune response, and mood regulation. Abnormal levels of prolactin can be linked to conditions such as infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, and lactation disorders.