Prolactin and oxytocin as modulators of intestinal contractility and glucose uptake

A single concentration of PRL or OT mostly preserved the contraction vs. % of the maximal contraction induced by KCl (100%), while PRL + OT reduced it and NO production in the duodenum and jejunum, but not in the ileum. Individually, PRL and OT increased glucose uptake, while their combination inhibited it, suggesting a modulatory mechanism regulating nutrient absorption. These findings support the role of PRL and OT as maternal milk-derived regulators of intestinal functions.