Which cell type of the anterior pituitary gland secretes prolactin?

• A. Lactotrophs
• B. Somatotrophs
• C. Gonadotrophs
• D. Corticotrophs

Answer: (A)

Prolactin is produced by specialized pituitary cells called lactotrophs (mammotrophs) in the anterior pituitary. These cells are the specific source of prolactin, the hormone that stimulates milk production in the mammary glands. Other anterior pituitary cell types secrete different hormones: somatotrophs make growth hormone, gonadotrophs secrete FSH and LH, and corticotrophs release ACTH. Thus, lactotrophs are the cell type responsible for prolactin secretion. Prolactin release is normally inhibited by dopamine and stimulated by other signals, but its origin remains tied to lactotrophs.