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New concepts in prolactin biology
Sophie Bernichtein1, Philippe Touraine, Vincent Goffin
1Inserm, Unit 845, Research Center Growth and Signaling, University Paris Descartes, Faculty of Medicine, Paris, France.
The Journal of Endocrinology
|April 8, 2010
Summary
Human prolactin (PRL) is a risk factor for breast cancer, with local production and receptor variants contributing to tumor growth. Novel PRL analogs may offer therapeutic strategies against these effects.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Human prolactin (PRL) was traditionally considered a pituitary hormone regulating lactation and reproduction.
- Recent research suggests PRL is linked to breast cancer risk and local tumor growth.
- Genetic variations in the PRL receptor have been identified in breast cancer patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review novel concepts in prolactin (PRL) biology.
- To discuss the role of PRL in cancer development and progression.
- To explore potential therapeutic applications of engineered PRL analogs.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies on PRL and cancer risk.
- Analysis of experimental data on local PRL production in tumors.
- Investigation of functional germinal polymorphisms in PRL receptors.
- Evaluation of engineered PRL analogs in preclinical models.
Main Results:
- Epidemiological data link circulating PRL to increased breast cancer risk.
- Locally produced PRL acts via autocrine/paracrine mechanisms to promote tumor growth in breast and prostate cancers.
- Constitutively active PRL receptor variants identified in breast tumors.
- Engineered PRL analogs demonstrate potential for competitive antagonism and inverse agonism.
Conclusions:
- PRL's role extends beyond traditional reproductive functions to include cancer pathology.
- Local PRL production and receptor polymorphisms are significant in tumorigenesis.
- Engineered PRL analogs represent a promising therapeutic avenue for PRL-driven cancers.
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