Question

Prolactin is secreted by which of the following parts?
(a) Neurohypophysis
(b) Adenohypophysis
(c) Adrenal cortex
(d) Adrenal medulla

Answer 1

Hint: Prolactin is a large protein (hormone) produced and secreted mainly by the anterior part of the pituitary. It is a vital hormone. This is the hormone that causes lactation in mammals.

Complete step by step answer:
The acidophil in the adenohypophysis (anterior pituitary) secretes prolactin, which is a large protein that stimulates tissue growth. Nipples and mammary gland stimulation during the nursing of a baby cause the secretion of prolactin.
Prolactin or PRL is the hormone that causes lactation in mammals. Other than that prolactin has a wide range of activities in mammals as it has a broad distribution of specific receptors in target tissues and organs. Prolactin is produced and secreted in the anterior pituitary I.e. adenohypophysis and is found in both female and male individuals. It is also secreted by breasts, uterus, adipose tissue, and even sometimes skin. The main function of prolactin is to differentiate the cells that perform their specific functions. When our body is exposed to a high level of cortisol hormone, the production of prolactin takes place. It plays a vital role in controlling osmolarity and also involved in the formation of steroid hormones, fatal lung development, lactation, ductal growth of breasts, and also in the metabolism of certain compounds. In males, they increase the reproductive functions by synergies with other hormones such as LH and testosterone.
So, the correct answer is ‘Adenohypophysis.’

Note: In this question, in place of the terms Neurohypophysis and Adenohypophysis, the posterior pituitary and anterior pituitary can be mentioned respectively. In that case, we need not be confused between the terms. The term Neurohypophysis means the posterior lobe of the pituitary whereas Adenohypophysis means the lobe present in the anterior side of the pituitary. The hormone prolactin is secreted by the anterior lobe, I.e. adenohypophysis.