Correlation between anxiety and serum prolactin in humans

W. J. Jeffcoate, Nadina B. Lincoln, C. Selby, M. Herbert
In: Journal of Psychosomatic Research · 1986 · vol. 30(2) , pp. 217–222 · doi:10.1016/0022-3999(86)90052-8 · PMID:3723452 · W2008063769
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Abstract

The organised social structure of primate species largely determines individual behaviour. Moreover Keverne et al. in Advanced Views in Primate Biology, Springer, Berlin (1982) [1] have demonstrated that social interaction among confined male talapoin monkeys may result in endocrine changes, and that these in turn may modify behaviour. We have undertaken a study to determine whether similar endocrine changes can be induced in confined human volunteers. Five men were confined on a boat for fourteen days. Repeated plasma samples were taken under controlled conditions for assay of testosterone, prolactin and cortisol. After each sample the men completed a questionnaire to document self-perceived anxiety. The men were also secretly ranked for dominant/aggressive behaviour towards the other males. Significant correlation was found between day-to-day changes in anxiety and stress hormones, cortisol and prolactin. Significant correlation was found also between plasma prolactin, testosterone and rank position for dominance/aggression. It is concluded that under some circumstances social interaction may modify endocrine status in humans.

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