Effect of the circulating renin-angiotensin system on prolactin release in humans.

What Was Tested

This controlled clinical trial looks at Angiotensin II and Captopril.

The present study was designed to determine whether angiotensin modulates PRL secretion in vivo.

Why It Was Studied

The researchers recently reported that renin, angiotensinogen, and angiotensin-converting enzyme were present in normal human pituitary lactotroph cells and PRL-secreting adenomas.

In 36 hypertensive patients with widely varying renin levels, active renin and basal PRL levels did not correlate.

Who Took Part

The study group was 36 patients.

How the Study Was Run

The researchers set it up as a placebo-controlled and crossover study.

Some patients received a placebo instead of Angiotensin II, giving a reference point.

In the crossover set-up each of the patients took both Angiotensin II and the comparison in turn, acting as their own control.

What Was Measured

In 36 hypertensive patients with widely varying renin levels, active renin and basal PRL levels did not correlate.

PubMed files the paper under topics including Adenoma, Aldosterone, Angiotensin I, Angiotensin II, Captopril, Circadian Rhythm and Enalapril.

What This Means in Plain Language

The paper is a placebo-controlled and crossover study of Angiotensin II and Captopril in 36 patients.

With fewer than 40 people, it is a small study, so it is better read as an early signal for further research than as a settled answer.

The publication is from 1990 (The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism), a journal based in United States.

More context: all human trials.