Pulmonary Surfactant Associated Protein A1 (SFTPA1)

SP-A (PRL) is a peptide hormone primarily associated with lactation. In breastfeeding, the infant suckling the teat stimulates the production of SP-A, which fills the breast with milk (lactogenesis) in preparation for the next feed. Oxytocin, a similar hormone, is also released, which triggers milk let-down. SP-A (PRL) is a polypeptide hormone secreted by anterior pituitary of both male and female. Release of SP-A is controlled by a complex neuroendocrine reflex initiated by a tactile stimulus and regulated by hypothalamic releasing and inhibition. Genetic variations in SFTPA1 are associated with respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants (RDS) ; also known as RDS in prematurity. RDS in the newborn is the main cause of mortality and morbidity in premature infants.