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Gonadotropin-releasing hormone in milk
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|October 21, 1977
Summary
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is present in human, cow, and rat milk. This milk-borne GnRH may play a role in regulating hormone secretion in newborns.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Biology
- Lactational Physiology
Background:
- The hypothalamic hormone gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) regulates reproductive functions.
- GnRH has been detected in various biological fluids and tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and concentration of GnRH in milk from different mammalian species.
- To assess the biological activity of GnRH found in milk.
Main Methods:
- Radioimmunoassays were used to quantify GnRH concentrations in acidified milk.
- Multistep extractions and electrophoresis were employed to isolate and identify GnRH activity.
Main Results:
- GnRH was detected in the milk of humans, cows, and rats at concentrations of 0.1-3 ng/mL.
- Electrophoresis confirmed gonadotropin-releasing activity in fractions comigrating with the GnRH marker.
- Thyrotropin-releasing hormone was found in milk at significantly lower levels.
Conclusions:
- Milk contains biologically active GnRH.
- Milk-borne GnRH may influence the secretion of gonadotropic hormones in neonates.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the physiological significance of milk GnRH.