| Prolactin | |
|---|---|
| [[File:|250px]] | |
| Abbreviation | PRL |
| Molecular formula | N/A, Single-chain polypeptide (~23 kDa, 199 amino acids) |
| Type | Pituitary peptide hormone |
| Administration | Endogenous only |
| Bioavailability | N/A, regulated by dopamine (inhibits) and serotonin/estrogen/TRH (stimulate) |
| Synonyms | Luteotropic hormone (LTH), Lactotropin, Mammotropin, "Molting hormone" (in birds) |
| Source | Interior pituitary gland (lactotroph cells); also produced locally in various tissues |
| Ray's verdict | Strongly negative, a reliable marker of stress and estrogen |