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Prolactin and immunomodulation

P M Reber1

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison.

The American Journal of Medicine
|December 1, 1993
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Prolactin plays a crucial role in immune function. Both low and high prolactin levels can suppress immunity, impacting autoimmune diseases and transplant rejection.

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Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Prolactin's influence on the immune system is a growing area of research.
  • Understanding prolactin's dual role in immune function is critical for therapeutic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the recent scientific literature on the role of prolactin in immune function.
  • To explore the implications of prolactin levels in autoimmune diseases and transplant outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE database.
  • Inclusion of studies from bibliographies of identified articles.

Main Results:

  • Hypophysectomy impairs both humoral and cell-mediated immunity; prolactin reintroduction restores function.
  • Prolactin receptors are present on lymphocytes, which can also secrete prolactin.

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  • Both prolactin deficiency and excess can lead to immunocompromise, observed in various animal models and humans.
  • Prolactin dysregulation is linked to autoimmune disorders like lupus and thyroid disease.
  • Dopaminergic agents suppressing prolactin are being investigated for autoimmune disease treatment and transplant tolerance.

    • Conclusions:

    • Physiological prolactin levels are essential for lymphocyte health.
    • Aberrant prolactin levels (too high or too low) can suppress immune responses.
    • Lymphocytes produce a prolactin-like substance, suggesting autocrine or paracrine roles.
    • Prolactin is implicated in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune conditions.