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Experimental modification of rat pituitary prolactin cell function during and after spaceflight
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University 16802, USA.
Journal of Applied Physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Microgravity significantly reduced immunoreactive prolactin (PRL) in male rat pituitary cells during an 8-day spaceflight. Biological activity varied, suggesting potential posttranslational modifications and regional cell differences.
Area of Science:
- Space Biology
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Prolactin (PRL) plays a role in immune system regulation.
- Spaceflight is known to alter both cellular and humoral immunity.
- Understanding microgravity's effects on endocrine cells is crucial for astronaut health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of microgravity on prolactin (PRL) cells from male rat pituitaries.
- To investigate changes in PRL quantity and biological activity after spaceflight.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a passive closed-vial cell culture system for an 8-day spaceflight.
- Measured immunoreactive PRL in flight media and cell extracts.
- Assessed PRL biological activity using in vitro lymphocyte assays.
Main Results:
- Significantly lower amounts of immunoreactive PRL were found in flight samples compared to ground controls.
- In vitro lymphocyte assays showed disparate results for PRL biological activity.
- Apparent molecular weights of released PRL were not altered by microgravity.
- The origin of PRL cells (dorsal vs. ventral) significantly influenced PRL release and activity.
Conclusions:
- Microgravity affects PRL levels and potentially its biological activity in male rats.
- Posttranslational modifications and regional cell differences may influence PRL's response to spaceflight.
- Further research is needed to clarify PRL's role in spaceflight-induced immune changes.