Effect of prolactin on the steroidogenic response of rat luteal cells

The role of prolactin on some ovarian functions was studied in collagenase-dispersed luteal cells obtained from PMSG/hCG-primed rats. The in vitro effect of ovine prolactin (oPrl) on luteal cell function was assayed. This hormone produced a dose-dependent increase of progesterone production and an additive effect on hCG stimulation. oPrl had no effect on cAMP production. Chronic effects of prolactin were studied in sulpiride (S), bromocriptine (Br) and oPrl-treated rats. Serum levels of prolactin were significantly higher in S-treated animals whereas Br administration rendered undetectable values. Serum progesterone was reduced in Br-treated animals and LH levels were similar in all groups studied. In vitro studies demonstrated a marked reduction of hCG stimulation of progesterone and cAMP production by luteal cells from hypoprolactinemic animals, while a significant increase was observed in hyperprolactinemic states. oPrl and S treatment significantly increased ovarian LH binding sites while a reduction was observed in Br-treated rats. These data suggest that luteal cell function is regulated by circulating levels of prolactin and that this hormone has some direct effect on the steroidogenic process.