prolactin

[ proh-lak-tin ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. an anterior pituitary polypeptide hormone that stimulates lactation by the mammary glands at parturition in mammals, the activity of the crop in birds, and in some mammalian species the production of progesterone by the corpus luteum.

prolactin

/ prəʊˈlæktɪn /

noun

1. a gonadotrophic hormone secreted by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. In mammals it stimulates the secretion of progesterone by the corpus luteum and initiates and maintains lactation Also calledluteotrophinluteotrophic hormone See also follicle-stimulating hormone luteinizing hormone

prolactin

/ prō-lăk′tĭn /

1. A protein hormone secreted by the anterior portion of the pituitary gland that stimulates and maintains the secretion of milk in mammals.

Word History and Origins

Origin of prolactin¹

First recorded in 1930–35; pro- ¹ + lact- + -in ²

Example Sentences

"Thus, growth hormone and prolactin could be considered as new adjuvants to promote immune responses following vaccination, especially in aged people, who typically display reduced levels of these hormones during sleep."

From Science Daily

Though changes in hormones such as prolactin, estrogen, and progesterone can occur, there’s no clear pattern or elevation of hormone levels associated with the condition, Clark says.

From National Geographic

Those who haven't given birth need to experience that rise in prolactin another way.

From Salon

Instead, following climax, the brain releases many chemicals used for cellular signaling including dopamine, oxytocin and prolactin, which a 2019 study described as generating "a deep sense of well-being."

From Salon

"Exposure to 4 ingredients are needed to transform the breast and allow for milk production and expression — estradiol, progesterone, prolactin, and oxytocin."

From Salon