[Prolactin receptors in the prostate]

Abstract

Following article describes available information presenting current knowledge on prolactin receptors expression and prolactin actions in the prostate gland. Prostate is strongly androgen dependent gland, however poseses receptors for other ligands including hypophyseal hormones and growth factors. More over prolactin is also locally produced and secreted acting also in paracrine way on the prostate. Prolactin alone and in cooperation with these hormones and growth factors plays essential role in regulation morphology and function of prostate gland, takes part in embryonic development, secretory function and pathological stages in prostate. Studies carried out in the human and animals in vivo and in vitro revealed presence of prolactin receptors in normal, benign and malignant prostate tissues.