Recombinant mouse Prolactin/PRL protein (Active)

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Prolactin (PRL) also known as mammotropin is a peptide hormone with a molecular mass of approximately 23 kDa. PRL is primarily expressed in the anterior pituitary gland but can also be found in other tissues such as the mammary glands brain and immune system. PRL plays an important role in lactation stimulating milk production in mammals. The PRL protein functions by binding to the prolactin receptor a member of the cytokine receptor family initiating signal transduction pathways.

Biological function summary

PRL influences a variety of physiological processes including reproduction metabolism and osmoregulation. It acts as a single entity rather than part of a larger protein complex affecting development and growth through its regulatory activities. In addition to lactation PRL also plays roles in the immune system cell proliferation and the production of surfactant in the lungs.

Pathways

Prolactin is deeply involved in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway and the MAPK/ERK pathway which are pivotal for transmitting signals from the prolactin receptor to the nucleus. Through these pathways PRL interacts with proteins like Janus kinase (JAK) and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT) proteins facilitating its wide range of biological effects. This interplay helps regulate gene expression critical for various physiological conditions.

PRL is linked to conditions such as hyperprolactinemia and prolactinoma. Hyperprolactinemia characterized by elevated levels of prolactin in the blood can lead to symptoms such as galactorrhea and infertility. In the context of prolactinoma an adenoma of the pituitary gland PRL's overproduction is common. These disorders often relate to proteins like dopamine which typically acts to inhibit PRL secretion from the pituitary gland and any disruption in this regulation can result in the aforementioned conditions.