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Summary
Prolactin influences male fertility by affecting reproductive organs and sperm function. Seminal fluid prolactin levels are inconsistent in studies due to varied methods and patient groups.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Andrology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Prolactin plays a role in male reproductive functions, including hormone regulation in testes and accessory organs.
- It facilitates sperm capacitation, a critical process for fertilization.
- Immunoreactive prolactin (iPRL) from blood is transported to semen via accessory sex organs over several days.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of prolactin in male reproduction.
- To discuss the transport and characteristics of prolactin in seminal fluid.
- To identify reasons for inconsistencies in clinical studies on seminal prolactin.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing clinical studies and biochemical data.
- Analysis of prolactin transport mechanisms from blood to semen.
- Examination of seminal prolactin heterogeneity and its association with spermatozoa.
Main Results:
- Immunoreactive prolactin (iPRL) is present in semen, with a portion potentially bound to spermatozoa.
- Seminal iPRL exhibits heterogeneity in size.
- Clinical data on seminal prolactin levels in fertile and infertile men are inconsistent.
Conclusions:
- Variability in patient populations, prolactin assays, and sample processing contribute to inconsistent clinical findings.
- Further standardized research is needed to clarify the precise role of seminal prolactin in male fertility.