ABSTRACT
Despite the progress in the endocrinology of prolactin (PRL) the role of this hormone in prostatic physiology and pathology remains poorly defined. Clinically, unequivocal evidence to demonstrate a role of PRL in the pathogenesis of benign prostatic hyperplasia or carcinoma of the prostate is lacking. Although clinical evidence is lacking, there are ample experimental examples to indicate the prostate is a target tissue for PRL. In the rat, for instance, PRL is able to alter the fresh weight and secretory responses of the prostate. These observations have clearly established an important role of PRL in growth and function of the prostate. The major task remains the elucidation of the exact mechanism of action of this hormone in prostatic cells. In view of the diversified nature of PRL action in a wide range of target tissues, a major challenge for scientists is to pinpoint the exact mode of action of PRL in prostatic growth and function.
