The regulation of prolactin secretion and its targeting function of teleost

•Factors from CNS and peripheral tissues are involved in the regulation of prolactin secretion.•Reproduction and osmoregulation are known to be the major functions of prolactin in teleost.•Prolactin on growth and immunity in fish waits for deep research for potential application. Prolactin is involved in regulating various physiological activities of vertebrates and is one of the most momentous pituitary hormones. However, not enough attention is currently paid to prolactin, especially in teleost. This paper aims to gather, organize, and analyze recent studies on the regulation and functions of prolactin. By comparing with other animal groups, it highlights the significant role of prolactin in fish reproduction, immunity, growth, and osmotic pressure regulation, as well as the upstream and downstream factors that may be involved in the regulation of prolactin functions were introduced to provide a theoretical basis for the in-depth study and potential practical application of prolactin.