Experimental and clinical endocrinology & diabetes : official journal, German Society of Endocrinology [and] German Diabetes Association
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Exp. Clin. Endocrinol. Diabetes · Nov 2006
Expression and distribution of prolactin receptor in normal, fibrotic, and cirrhotic human liver.
Liver cirrhosis is often associated with elevated levels of prolactin (PRL). This is commonly attributed to impaired hepatic metabolism of estrogens. However, there is evidence suggesting that PRL may be an important factor in hepatic tissue regeneration. ⋯ As no PRL-mRNA was detectable in normal, fibrotic or cirrhotic tissue, PRL does not act through autocrine or paracrine mechanisms. These data confirm previous results, which we obtained using an animal model for experimental liver cirrhosis in rats suggesting a metabolic function of PRL in normal liver and a regenerative function in fibrotic and cirrhotic liver. In conclusion, PRL might be involved in the pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis.