Indicator Explainer
Prolactin
Prolactin (227 aa, ~26 kDa) is encoded by the human PRL gene. This protein is involved in the promotion of lactation in the mammary gland.
This page explains what the indicator is and how results are interpreted in general terms. Reference ranges depend on the laboratory, the method, and your own situation — no single “normal value” applies to everyone. This page is health information, not a diagnosis. For symptoms, treatment, or urgent concerns, contact a healthcare professional.
When it is tested
Source: National Cancer Institute, NCI Thesaurus 26.09d, C778. NCI definition, reproduced without modification under CC BY 4.0. Source identity and definition checked automatically on 2026-10-18. No individual clinical interpretation or human reviewer is asserted.
Reading results
Reference intervals and interpretation depend on the laboratory, specimen, method and clinical context. This source definition is educational information; it does not establish a diagnosis, product approval or suitability for an individual.
Also Known As
References
- NCI Thesaurus 26.09d — Prolactin (C778)
- Source: National Cancer Institute, NCI Thesaurus 26.09d, C778. NCI definition, reproduced without modification under CC BY 4.0.
- Prolactin receptor signaling in liver homeostasis and disease. — Biochem Pharmacol, 2026-10-03 (PMID 42829116; literature)
- Nadir Prolactin-guided Individualized Cabergoline Therapy Achieves Durable Remission and Safe Pregnancy in Prolactinomas. — J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 2026-10-01 (PMID 42816952; literature)
- Prolactin receptor signalling contributes to the attenuation of stress-induced hyperthermia during pregnancy. — J Neuroendocrinol, 2026-10-01 (PMID 42805607; literature)