Prolactin isn't produced by a single hormone. Instead, its production is primarily controlled by other hormones and factors, notably dopamine and estrogen.
Here's a breakdown:
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Dopamine: This brain chemical acts as the main inhibitor of prolactin release from the pituitary gland. When dopamine levels are high, prolactin production is suppressed.
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Estrogen: This hormone generally stimulates prolactin production and release. Elevated estrogen levels, such as during pregnancy, lead to increased prolactin secretion.
It's also important to note that prolactin itself can be produced not only by the pituitary gland, but also by other tissues in the body, including the central nervous system, immune system, uterus, and mammary glands. The control mechanisms in these tissues may differ slightly from the pituitary gland.
In summary, while estrogen stimulates prolactin production, prolactin itself isn't produced by another hormone in the sense of a direct precursor-product relationship. The regulation is more complex, involving inhibitory and stimulatory influences.
