[Neurotransmitters, neurohormones and prolactin]

Area of Science:

• Neuroendocrinology
• Hormone Regulation
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Prolactin secretion is a complex process influenced by various neuroendocrine factors.
• Understanding prolactin regulation is crucial for diagnosing and treating related disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the neuroendocrine mechanisms controlling prolactin secretion.
• To investigate the specific roles of various chemical agents in prolactin regulation.

Main Methods:

• Review and discussion of existing literature on neuroendocrine control of prolactin.
• Analysis of the effects of specific chemical agents on prolactin secretion.

Main Results:

• Dopamine exerts a net inhibitory effect on prolactin secretion.
• Nicotine and somatostatin show inhibitory effects, while serotoninergic pathways, TRH, histamine, and endorphins are facilitatory.
• GABA and noradrenaline exhibit dual effects, and certain drugs show paradoxical actions on prolactin release.

Conclusions:

• Multiple chemical agents significantly influence prolactin secretion through diverse mechanisms.
• The study postulates a potential novel control mechanism at the anterior pituitary receptor level.