The anterior pituitary gland secretes prolactin.
Prolactin is a protein hormone essential for lactation and reproductive function. It's produced by specific cells within the anterior pituitary called lactotrophs. These cells are also sometimes referred to as acidophilic cells due to their staining properties under a microscope.
Here's a breakdown:
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Anterior Pituitary Gland: This is the front portion of the pituitary gland, a small, pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain. It's responsible for producing a variety of hormones that regulate growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
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Lactotrophs: These specialized cells within the anterior pituitary are dedicated to synthesizing and secreting prolactin. The activity of lactotrophs is regulated by various factors, including dopamine, which inhibits prolactin secretion.
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Prolactin Function: Prolactin's primary role is to stimulate milk production (lactation) in females after childbirth. It also plays a role in reproductive function in both males and females, although its exact functions are still being studied.
In summary, the anterior pituitary gland, specifically the lactotroph cells within it, is responsible for secreting prolactin.
