Metabolic effects of prolactin

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Regulation
• Neuroendocrinology

Background:

• The metabolic functions of prolactin (PRL) are increasingly recognized.
• Hyperprolactinemia is linked to weight gain, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and dysregulated glucose and lipid metabolism, potentially via altered dopaminergic tone.
• Prolactin and dopamine receptors are present on pancreatic beta cells and adipocytes, indicating peripheral metabolic roles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of hyperprolactinemia and its management with dopamine agonists (DAs) on food intake, body weight, and metabolic profiles.
• To discuss the metabolic impact of hypoprolactinemia.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on prolactin's metabolic role.
• Analysis of studies on dopamine agonist treatment for hyperprolactinemia.
• Examination of research on the effects of low prolactin levels.

Main Results:

• Dopamine agonist therapy (bromocriptine, cabergoline) improves metabolic syndrome, obesity, and lipid/glucose profiles in hyperprolactinemic individuals.
• Hormone replacement in men with hyperprolactinemia and hypogonadism restores metabolic function.
• Low prolactin levels are associated with adverse effects on weight and metabolism, increasing metabolic syndrome prevalence.

Conclusions:

• Hyperprolactinemia negatively impacts metabolic health, but can be effectively managed with dopamine agonists.
• Specific prolactin ranges may represent a physiological adaptation for metabolic homeostasis (HomeoFIT-PRL).
• Both excess and deficiency of prolactin have significant metabolic consequences, highlighting its crucial role in metabolic regulation.