GENERAL HISTOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -One example of a prolactin-stimulating factor for which a role has been identified is estrogen, which stimulates prolactin synthesis and secretion in the late stages of pregnancy to prepare the mammary glands for lactation.

Detailed explanation-2: -In addition to monomeric 23 kDa prolactin, two other major forms are present in the circulation: ‘big prolactin’ and ‘big-big prolactin’ (macroprolactin). Big prolactin is the dimer of monomeric form and big-big prolactin comprises high molecular mass (>150 kDa) complexes of 23 kDa prolactin and IgG autoantibodies.

Detailed explanation-3: -It is involved in the formation of steroid hormones. It helps in the initiation and maintenance of lactation. It induces ductal growth and lobular alveolar system in the breast. It is also involved in the synthesis of milk proteins like casein and lactalbumin.

Detailed explanation-4: -Prolactin is a polypeptide hormone that is responsible for lactation, breast development, and hundreds of other actions needed to maintain homeostasis. The chemical structures prolactin is similar to the structure of growth hormone and placental lactogen hormone.