Review Article
Published: 15 October, 2025 | Volume 9 - Issue 1 | Pages: 001-009
Prolactin (PRL), a hormone traditionally associated with lactation, has been increasingly recognized for its significant role in the immune system. This paper explores the multifaceted functions of PRL, particularly its contribution to immunosuppressive and corticosteroid drug unresponsiveness, commonly referred to as drug resistance. Hyperprolactinemia has been observed in various autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis (SSc), Sjögren’s syndrome (SS), and multiple sclerosis (MS). The association between PRL and these diseases is partly explained by the proximity of the PRL gene to the HLA-DBR1 region on chromosome 6, suggesting a genetic link to autoimmune pathogenesis. Furthermore, PRL’s interaction with immune cells, including T-cells, B-cells, and macrophages, as well as its production by these cells, underscores its role in modulating immune responses. This paper hypothesizes that hyperprolactinemia contributes significantly to the resistance to immunosuppressive and corticosteroid therapy frequently observed in autoimmune diseases. The mechanisms involve PRL’s interference with corticosteroid receptor signaling pathways, STAT5 pathways, and the IL-2 receptor pathways, leading to diminished anti-inflammatory effects.
Furthermore, PRL is involved in PRL/JAK2 interactions, activation of the Ras/Raf/MAP kinase pathways, as well as the pathways involving the Src family of kinases (e.g, Fyn) and SHP2, IRS-1, and PI-3 kinase activation. In vitro and animal studies further support the immunomodulatory effects of PRL, demonstrating its ability to alter lymphocyte sensitivity to corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs. This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the complex interplay between PRL and the immune system, highlighting the potential for targeting PRL pathways in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and overcoming drug resistance.
Read Full Article HTML DOI: 10.29328/journal.acem.1001031 Cite this Article Read Full Article PDF
Prolactin; Drug resistance; Rheumatoid arthritis; SLE; Systemic sclerosis; Sjogren’s; Multiple sclerosis; Transplant rejection; Corticosteroids; Autoimmune disease; Hyperprolactinemia; STAT5; IL-2; T-cells and B-cells; IL-1β; TNF-α
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