Week 1 SBL

Question 1

What is another name for prolactin inhibiting hormone? Where is it released, and what type of receptor might be involving in exerting this effect?

Answer 1

• Prolactin Inhibiting Hormone AKA Dopamine
• Released from the arcuate nucleus in the hypothalamus
• Binds to D2 receptors on lactotrophs (just like in basal ganglia); makes it inhibitory

Question 2

What hormones causes lactotrophs to release MORE prolactin (there are two)? What other THINGS can stimulate it?

Answer 2

• Thyrotropin releasing hormone (exerts direct effect on lactotrophs)
• Oestrogen (increase prolactin, and decreases dopamine production)
• Breastfeeding also increased TRH and Prolactin