Effects of prolactin on lipid metabolism
Aisaka, K.
Nihon Sanka Fujinka Gakkai Zasshi 34(5): 559-568
1982
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-9165 PMID: 7086239 Document Number: 183094
Effects of prolactin (PRL) on lipid metabolism were examined in rabbits and patients with hyperprolactinemia. Significant correlation between serum PRL and triglyceride (TG) levels was observed in the patients with hyperprolactinemia (r = 0.417, P < 0.05). Serum TG levels in non-pregnant adult rabbits were elevated in feeded states by the administration of o-PRL. Marked changes were not observed in the activity of plasma lipoprotein lipase in rabbits by the administration of o-PRL, but in in vitro experiments, the up-take of 14C-acetate into lipid fraction of rabbit liver slice significantly increased by the addition of o-PRL. Evidently PRL activates TG synthesis in liver and consequently increases serum TG levels. The serum levels of TG, free fatty acid, cholesterol and glucose significantly rose in rabbits' fetuses after i.p. o-PRL administration. These facts also suggest that the high levels of PRL in maternal and fetal serum and amniotic fluid may have some roles in the growth of the fetus through lipid metabolism.