Prolactin receptor in regulation of neuronal excitability and channels

Mayur J. Patil, Michael A. Henry, Armen N. Akopian

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

67 Scopus citations

Abstract

Prolactin (PRL) activates PRL receptor isoforms to exert regulation of specific neuronal circuitries, and to control numerous physiological and clinically-relevant functions including; maternal behavior, energy balance and food intake, stress and trauma responses, anxiety, neurogenesis, migraine and pain. PRL controls these critical functions by regulating receptor potential thresholds, neuronal excitability and/or neurotransmission efficiency. PR L also influences neuronal functions via activation of certain neurons, resulting in Ca2+ influx and/or electrical firing with subsequent release of neurotransmitters. Although PRL was identified almost a century ago, very little specific information is known about how PRL regulates neuronal functions. Nevertheless, important initial steps have recently been made including the identification of PRL-induced transient signaling pathways in neurons and the modulation of neuronal transient receptor potential (TR P) and Ca2+ -dependent K+ channels by PRL. In this review, we summarize current knowledge and recent progress in understanding the regulation of neuronal excitability and channels by PRL.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)193-202
Number of pages10
JournalChannels
Volume8
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 2014

Keywords

  • Neuroendocrinology
  • Neuronal channels
  • Neuropeptides
  • Prolactin receptor
  • TRP channels

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biophysics
  • Biochemistry

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