Hypothalamic prolactin signaling protects against overheating in pregnancy.

Abstract

Pregnancy involves physiological adaptations that optimize fetal development. Reduced maternal core temperature may protect offspring from the teratogenic effects of excess heat, but the mechanisms regulating body temperature during pregnancy remained largely unclear. In a recent study in mice, Ladyman and colleagues identified the prolactin receptor (Prlr) as a thermal switch lowering maternal core temperature and promoting offspring survival in warm environments.