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Hypophysectomized rats depend on residual prolactin for survival
1Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
Endocrinology
|June 1, 1991
Summary
Prolactin (PRL) is vital for maintaining bodily functions. Studies show PRL replacement therapy in hypophysectomized rats prevents anemia and immune deficiency, highlighting its crucial trophic effects.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
- Physiology
Background:
- Hypophysectomy (Hypox) in female rats leads to reduced serum lactogenic activity.
- Hypox animals exhibit anemia, immunological anergy, and decreased organ weights.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of prolactin (PRL) in maintaining physiological functions in hypophysectomized rats.
- To determine the effects of PRL replacement on anemia, immune function, and organ health.
Main Methods:
- Hypophysectomized Fischer 344 rats were treated with antirat PRL serum or syngeneic pituitaries (SPG).
- Prolactin (PRL) and growth hormone (GH) effects were assessed in vitro using bone marrow cell assays.
- Hematological parameters, immune function, organ weights, and nucleic acid synthesis were measured.
Main Results:
- Antirat PRL serum treatment exacerbated anemia and led to death in Hypox rats.
- Untreated Hypox rats showed gradual recovery of lactogenic activity but persistent deficiencies.
- SPG grafting and ovine PRL treatment normalized hematological parameters and organ weights.
- PRL, GH, and human placental lactogen stimulated bone marrow cell proliferation in vitro.
Conclusions:
- Prolactin (PRL) possesses significant multiple trophic effects, essential for maintaining vital bodily functions.
- PRL replacement therapy can counteract the detrimental effects of hypophysectomy, including anemia and immune dysfunction.
- PRL plays a critical role in long-term physiological homeostasis.