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Neuropsychological complications of hypoprolactinemia

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Abstract

Prolactin (PRL) is primarily produced by the pituitary lactotrophic cells and while initially named for its role in lactation, PRL has several other biological roles including immunomodulation, osmotic balance, angiogenesis, calcium metabolism, and appetite regulation. Most of the PRL-related literature has traditionally focused on hyperprolactinemia, whereas hypoprolactinemia has received little attention. There is evidence to suggest that PRL receptors are widely distributed within the central nervous system including the limbic system. Furthermore, PRL has been shown to play key role in the stress regulation pathway. Recent data also suggest that hypoprolactinemia may be associated with increased sexual dysfunction, anxiety, and depression. In this paper we discuss the current understanding regarding the neuropsychological impact of hypoprolactinemia and highlight the need for adequately defining hypoprolactinemia as an entity and consideration for future replacement therapies.

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  1. Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, B3H 2Y9, Canada

    Vicki Munro & Syed Ali Imran

  2. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IWK Hospital, 5850/5980 University Avenue, Halifax, B3K 6R8, NS, Canada

    Michael Wilkinson

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Munro, V., Wilkinson, M. & Imran, S.A. Neuropsychological complications of hypoprolactinemia. Rev Endocr Metab Disord (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11154-024-09892-y

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