Prolactin as a novel biomarker in malignancy

Apart from lactation, prolactin is engaged in a wide range of physiological activities and mostly generated by lactotroph cells in the anterior pituitary. Among these actions are metabolic, immunological, and reproductive ones. Prolactin acts through the binding of the hormone to its receptor, PRLR. Among organs in which this receptor is found include the liver, adipose tissue, immunological cells, and the central nervous system. Because of its control of glucose and lipid metabolism, adipogenesis, and leptin production, prolactin is a fundamental component in the control of metabolism. It is responsible for maintaining energy homeostasis during critical physiological states such as increasing immune cell diversity and proliferation. However, elevated levels of prolactin have been linked to exacerbated autoimmune diseases. An association has been established between the hormone prolactin and the development and progression of a number of malignancies, including breast, ovarian, prostate, and hepatic cancers. Investigations are now being conducted to determine the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of prolactin. The objective of this review is to investigate the various functions that prolactin serves, as well as the ways in which high or low amounts of the hormone influence certain cancers.