Choriomammotrophin is a hormone produced during pregnancy that stimulates the mammary glands to produce milk. Its spelling is derived from its composition, chorio- meaning relating to the chorion (the outermost membrane surrounding the embryo) and mammotrophin meaning a hormone that stimulates the mammary glands. The word is pronounced [kɔr-ee-oh-mam-uh-troh-fin] in IPA phonetic transcription, with stress on the second syllable. The spelling can pose a challenge to those unfamiliar with medical terminology, but breaking it down into its root components can aid in memorization.
Choriomammotrophin, also known as placental lactogen or lactogenic hormone, is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. It plays a vital role in the regulation of maternal metabolism and the growth and development of the fetus.
Choriomammotrophin functions similarly to other growth hormone proteins in the body. It stimulates the growth of mammary glandular tissue and promotes milk secretion in the breasts, hence its name "mammotrophin." This hormone is responsible for the enlargement of the breasts and the production of colostrum, the precursor to breast milk, during pregnancy.
Furthermore, choriomammotrophin also has metabolic effects on the mother's body. It acts as a modulator of insulin actions, helping to increase maternal blood glucose levels by inhibiting the uptake of glucose by maternal tissues. This leads to an increase in free fatty acids in the maternal circulation, which can be utilized as an energy source by both the mother and the developing fetus.
In addition to its role in pregnancy, choriomammotrophin has been researched for its potential therapeutic uses. It has shown potential in regulating glucose metabolism and has been investigated for its potential in the treatment of diabetes and obesity. However, further studies are needed to fully understand its therapeutic applications.
Overall, choriomammotrophin is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy that plays a crucial role in mammary gland growth and development, milk production, and the regulation of maternal metabolism.
The word "choriomammotrophin" is derived from combining three different roots: "chorio-", "mammo-", and "-trophin".
1. "Chorio-" is derived from the Greek word "chorion" (χορίον), meaning "membrane" or "outer covering". the word "chorio-" often refers to the placenta or chorion, the outermost fetal membrane that surrounds the developing embryo.
2. "Mammo-" is derived from the Greek word "mamma" (μαμμα), meaning "breast". the word "mammo-" is used to refer to the mammary glands or breast tissue.
3. "-trophin" is a suffix derived from the Greek word "trophē" (τροφή), meaning "to nourish" or "to grow".