Prolactin: A New Actor in Musculoskeletal Physiology and its Implication in Orthopedic Pathologies

Original Article | Vol 5 | Issue 1 |  January-June 2025 | page: 14-18 | Paul Germán Terán Vela, Estefanía Anabel Lozada Tobar, Luis Eduardo Guzmán Freire

DOI: https://doi.org/10.13107/jrs.2025.v05.i01.161

Open Access License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Copyright Statement: Copyright © 2025; The Author(s).

Submitted Date: 10 May 2025, Review Date: 20 May 2025, Accepted Date: May 2025 & Published: 30 Jun 2025

Author: Paul Germán Terán Vela [1], Estefanía Anabel Lozada Tobar [1], Luis Eduardo Guzmán Freire [2]

[1] Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Orthopedic Specialties Center, Quito- Ecuador,
[2] Orthopedic Specialties Center, Quito-Ecuador.

Address of Correspondence
Dr. Paul Germán Terán Vela,
Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Orthopedic Specialties Center, Quito-Ecuador.
E-mail: paulteranmd@gmail.com

Abstract
Prolactin (PRL), traditionally known for its role in lactation, has emerged as a pleiotropic hormone with actions that extend beyond reproduction. Growing evidence suggests its involvement in pain modulation, immune function and tissue homeostasis, with potential repercussions on musculoskeletal health. This review analyzes in depth the available scientific literature on PRL and its relationship with orthopedic pathologies, including chronic pain, tendinopathies, and conditions of the muscle, ligaments, and articular cartilage. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the influence of PRL on musculoskeletal physiology are explored, as well as the clinical implications of its level disturbances, both hyperprolactinemia and hypoprolactinemia. Finally, future perspectives and lines of research are discussed to fully understand the role of PRL in the context of orthopedic pathologies are discussed.
Keywords: Prolactin, Hyperprolactinemia, Hypoprolactinemia, Chronic pain, Tendinopathies, Osteoarthritis, Skeletal muscle, Ligaments, Articular cartilage, Prolactin receptors

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