Editing Prolactin cell (section)

== Function ==
When prolactin cells are observed in vitro, they are responsible for firing spontaneous action potentials, causing Ca2+ to follow the action potential pathway and allows for the exocytotic pathway, prolactin gene transcription, and hormone synthesis to remain active throughout.<ref name = "Kucka_2013" /> Prolactin gene transcription is responsible for the production of prolactin.

Prolactin is involved in the maturation of [[Mammary gland|mammary glands]] and their secretion of milk in association with oxytocin, estrogen, progesterone, glucocorticoids, and others. Prolactin has numerous other effects in both sexes.<ref name="MC_Prolactinoma">{{Cite web |date=April 7, 2024 |title=Prolactinoma |url=https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prolactinoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20376958 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |website=Mayo Clinic}}</ref>

=== Conditions ===
Prolactin cells are [[acidophilic]] by hematoxylin & eosin stains and, If these cells undergo [[Neoplasm|neoplastic]] transformation, they will give rise to a [[prolactinoma]], a prolactin-secreting [[pituitary adenoma]].<ref name="MC_Prolactinoma" />

[[Prolactinoma]] is a tumor of the pituitary gland that is typically non-cancerous. This disorder is more common in females than males. Although the tumor itself may not cause symptoms, the tumor can cause an increased production of prolactin and decreased levels of estrogen and testosterone.<ref name="MC_Prolactinoma" />

Symptoms of both sexes could include osteoporosis, infertility, or a decrease in sexual desire.
[[File:Celula Lactotropa.png|thumb|Lactotropic Cells (in blue)]]
In men, prolactinoma could also cause erectile dysfunction, enlarged breast tissue, small muscles or a decrease in the amount of body hair. In women, this could cause breast discharge, irregular menstrual cycles, painful intercourse, acne, or an increase in the amount of body hair.