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Prolactin: A Key Immunoregulator in Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases
Mina Asadikaram1,2, Saeed Bahrampour3,4,5, Mahdis Rahimi Naiini1
1Applied Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, kmu.ac.ir.
Prolactin (PRL) is a hormone that impacts immune responses and inflammation. Elevated PRL levels in viral infections may enhance immunity but also contribute to autoimmune diseases, requiring further study.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
- Virology
Background:
- Prolactin (PRL) is a hormone secreted by multiple cell types, influencing diverse physiological functions including immune regulation.
- PRL levels are dynamic, affected by various factors and linked to conditions like autoimmune diseases and viral infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the immunomodulatory effects of prolactin in human viral infections.
- To explore prolactin's potential role in the development of autoimmune diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on prolactin, viral infections, and autoimmune diseases.
- Analysis of prolactin's effects on immune cells and cytokine production.
Main Results:
- PRL modulates immune cells (T cells, B cells, NK cells, macrophages) and cytokine production, influencing immune responses to viruses.
- Increased PRL levels are observed in viral infections (e.g., HIV, COVID-19) and may enhance antiviral immunity.
- PRL overexpression is implicated in various autoimmune diseases.
Conclusions:
- Prolactin plays a significant role in endocrine function and immune regulation.
- PRL's complex effects on immunity in viral infections warrant further investigation.
- Understanding prolactin's role may offer insights into managing viral infections and autoimmune diseases.
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