Yes, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) increases prolactin (PRL) secretion. VIP acts as a prolactin-releasing factor in the anterior pituitary gland.
How VIP Increases Prolactin:
VIP exerts its prolactin-releasing effect by binding to specific receptors on lactotroph cells (prolactin-secreting cells) within the anterior pituitary. This binding initiates a signaling cascade that leads to increased prolactin synthesis and release. Specifically, VIP stimulates adenylyl cyclase, increasing intracellular cAMP levels. This, in turn, activates protein kinase A (PKA), leading to prolactin gene transcription and release.
Mechanism Summary:
- VIP binds to receptors on lactotrophs.
- Stimulates adenylyl cyclase.
- Increases intracellular cAMP.
- Activates protein kinase A (PKA).
- Increases prolactin synthesis and release.
Therefore, the evidence clearly indicates that VIP plays a role in stimulating prolactin secretion from the anterior pituitary.
