Prolactin ELISA
Specification:
Catalog Number: PRL HU-LB25
Description: Prolactin ELISA
Sample Type: Serum
Sample Size: 50 µl
Available Sizes: 96 Wells
Range: 0-200 ng/ml
Sensitivity: 2.0 ng/ml
Incubation: 1 hour(s) 20 minutes (s)
Protocol: Prolactin ELISA
Regulatory Status: RUO
Product Distribution: Available worldwide

Human prolactin (lactogenic hormone) is secreted from the anterior pituitary gland in both men and woman. Human prolactin is a single chain polypeptide hormone with a molecular weight of approximately 23,000 daltons. The release and synthesis of prolactin is under neuroendocrinal control, primarily through Prolactin Releasing Factor and Prolactin Inhibiting Factor.

Women normally have slightly higher basal prolactiin levels than men; apparently, there is an estrogen-related rise at puberty and a corresponding decrease at menopause. The primary functions of prolactin are to initiate breast development and to maintain lactation. Prolactin also suppresses gonadal function. During pregnancy, prolactin levels increase progressively to between 10 to 20 times normal values, declining to non-pregnant levels by 3-4 weeks post-partum. Breast-feeding mothers maintain high levels of prolactin, and it may take several months for serum concentrations to return to non-pregnant levels.

Microadenomas (small pituitary tumors) may cause hyperprolactinemia, which is sometimes associated with male impotence. High prolactin levels are commonly associated with galactorrhea and amenorrhea. Prolactin concentrations have been shown to be increased by estrogen, thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), and several drugs affecting dopaminergic mechanism. Prolactin levels are elevated in renal disease and hypothyroidism, and in some situations of stress, excercise, and hypoglycemia. Additionally, the release of prolactin is episodic and demonstrates diurnal variation. Mildly elevated prolactin concentrations should be evaluated taking these considerations into account. Prolactin concentrations may also be increased by drugs such as chloropromazine and reserpine, and may be lowered by bromocyptine and L-dopa.

Prolactin ELISA - For the quantitative determination of Prolactin in human Serum.