Overview
Prolactin (PRL) is a 199-amino acid hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, with structural similarities to growth hormone. It plays multifunctional roles beyond its namesake lactation function, including immune modulation, metabolism regulation, and behavioral effects. In humans, PRL exists in multiple isoforms due to post-translational modifications, with the 23 kDa form being predominant. Discovered in the 1930s, PRL is now recognized as a cytokine-like hormone with receptors widely distributed across tissues. Its secretion is inhibited by dopamine and stimulated by thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), making it a key marker in endocrine disorder diagnostics.
Physical and Chemical Properties
PRL is a globular protein with three disulfide bonds stabilizing its tertiary structure. The hormone maintains stability between pH 5-8 but aggregates under extreme pH or temperature conditions. Its isoelectric point is approximately 6.3, and it exhibits absorbance maxima at 280 nm due to tyrosine residues. In solution, monomeric PRL predominates at neutral pH but may dimerize at higher concentrations. The protein is susceptible to proteolytic degradation unless stored lyophilized or with protease inhibitors. Analytical methods for characterization include SDS-PAGE (23-25 kDa band), HPLC, and mass spectrometry.
Main Applications
In clinical diagnostics, PRL immunoassays detect hyperprolactinemia, which causes galactorrhea and reproductive dysfunction. Pharmaceutical-grade PRL is investigated for wound healing applications due to its angiogenic properties. Veterinary medicine uses recombinant PRL to enhance milk yield in dairy animals. Research applications include studying PRL's role in autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus) and cancer progression (particularly breast and prostate). Cell culture laboratories employ PRL as a supplement for mammary epithelial cell studies. Emerging biotech applications explore PRL-receptor antagonists for oncology treatments.
Safety and Storage
Lyophilized PRL remains stable for years at -20°C when protected from moisture. Reconstituted solutions should be aliquoted and stored at -80°C, with avoidable freeze-thaw cycles. Transport requires cold chain maintenance (dry ice for international shipments). While non-toxic at physiological levels, concentrated PRL powder may cause irritation upon contact with mucous membranes. Laboratory handling requires standard PPE. Waste disposal follows institutional guidelines for proteinaceous compounds. Regulatory status varies by country—research-grade PRL typically requires no special permits.
B2B Procurement Guide
Bulk buyers should verify: 1) Biological activity (typically ≥15 IU/mg), 2) Endotoxin levels (<1 EU/μg for cell culture), 3) Certificate of Analysis with purity verification (RP-HPLC or SEC data). Leading suppliers include Sigma-Aldrich, R&D Systems, and ProSpec. For GMP-grade PRL (clinical applications), demand full documentation including viral clearance validation. Consider recombinant vs. natural sourcing—recombinant human PRL (rhPRL) avoids pituitary-derived contaminants but may lack some post-translational modifications. MOQ for bulk orders is typically 100 mg, with lead times of 4-8 weeks for customized specifications.
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