The effects of prolactin on the immune system, its relationship with the severity of COVID-19, and its potential immunomodulatory therapeutic effect
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info:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccessDate
2023Author
Rasmi, YousefJalali, Ladan
Khalid, Saliha
Shokati, Ameneh
Tyagi, Poonam
Ozturk, Alpaslan
Nasimfar, Amir
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Prolactin (PRL) is an endocrine hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that has a variety of physiological effects, including milk production, immune system regulation, and anti-inflammatory effects. Elevated levels of PRL have been found in several viral infections, including 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2), a viral pathogen that has recently spread worldwide. PRL production is increased in SARS-CoV2 infection. While PRL can trigger the production of proinflammatory cytokines, it also has several anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce hyperinflammation. The exact mechanism of PRL's contribution to the severity of COVID-19 is unknown. The purpose of this review is to discuss the interaction between PRL and SARS-CoV2 infection and its possible association with the severity of COVID-19.