Episodic prolactin and growth hormone secretion not related to the actual suckling activity in lactating rats.

In order to characterize the secretion pattern of prolactin and GH in freely behaving lactating rats, frequent serial blood samples were collected through indwelling atrial cannulae and their prolactin and GH concentrations determined by radioimmunoassay. At the time of blood sampling, physical contact with the pups was recorded. Plasma prolactin and GH levels showed episodic changes which were independent of each other and there was no apparent correlation between hormone levels and contact between mother and pups. The data suggest that there are episodic fluctuations in plasma prolactin and GH concentrations in lactating rats. These changes do not appear to be closely correlated with the proximity of the mother to her pups.