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Development and heterogeneity of prolactin cells
1Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Okayama University, Japan.
International Review of Cytology
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Pituitary prolactin (PRL) cells are diverse, with varying structures and functions. This heterogeneity in PRL cell populations is crucial for understanding their development and age-related changes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Prolactin (PRL) is synthesized by pituitary mammotrophs (PRL cells).
- The PRL cell population exhibits significant structural and functional heterogeneity.
- PRL molecule variants and distinct subtypes of PRL cells exist in various species, particularly in rodents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the significance of heterogeneity within PRL cell populations.
- To present updated reports on PRL cell differentiation, proliferation, and development.
- To discuss factors contributing to functional differences and age-related alterations in PRL secretion.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of existing literature on PRL cell biology.
- Analysis of age-related changes in PRL secretion in rats.
- Discussion of the developmental lineage and relationships between PRL cells, somatotrophs, and mammosomatotrophs.
Main Results:
- PRL cell heterogeneity may reflect different maturation stages or functional specializations.
- Age-related alterations in PRL secretion are a key aspect of PRL cell development.
- Mammosomatotrophs, co-secreting growth hormone and PRL, share a common lineage with PRL cells and somatotrophs.
Conclusions:
- Understanding PRL cell heterogeneity is vital for comprehending their diverse roles and developmental trajectories.
- The functional diversity of PRL cells is influenced by developmental and age-related factors.
- The shared lineage of PRL cells, somatotrophs, and mammosomatotrophs highlights complex pituitary cell differentiation pathways.