gonadotropic hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary; in females it stimulates growth of the mammary glands and lactation after parturition

hormone responsible for milk production. It is produced by the anterior pituitary and works in concert with estrogen, progesterone, thyroxine, insulin, growth hormone, glucocorticoids to initiate and maintain milk production. Unknown in males, luteotropin synthesis and release from the pituitary is mediated by the central nervous system in response to suckling by the baby. When suckling, or its mechanical equivalent such as expressing, ceases, the secretion of luteotropin slows ending milk production. Also known as prolactin (PRL), lactogenic hormone or lactogen.