Mammary Gland Development

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What are the primary stages of mammary gland development?

The primary stages include embryonic development, puberty, pregnancy, lactation, and involution.

Which hormones are crucial for mammary gland development during puberty?

Estrogen and progesterone are crucial hormones for mammary gland development during puberty.

How does the mammary gland change during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the mammary gland undergoes proliferation and differentiation in preparation for lactation.

What role does prolactin play in mammary gland development?

Prolactin stimulates milk production in the alveolar cells of the mammary gland.

What is the significance of involution in mammary glands?

Involution is the process of mammary gland regression that occurs post-lactation when milk production ceases.

How does the mammary gland begin its development in embryos?

Mammary gland development in embryos begins with the formation of mammary lines or milk lines.

Which structure in the mammary gland is primarily responsible for milk production?

The alveoli are the primary structures responsible for milk production in the mammary gland.

In human biology, what is the function of the mammary gland?

The primary function of the mammary gland is to produce and secrete milk to nourish newborns.

What changes occur in breast tissue during lactation?

During lactation, breast tissue undergoes enlargement, increased vascularization, and functional differentiation to produce milk.

Which type of tissue predominantly makes up the mammary gland?

The mammary gland is predominantly made up of glandular and adipose tissue.

How do mammary glands change during menopause?

During menopause, mammary glands typically undergo a decrease in glandular tissue and an increase in adipose tissue.

What is the role of myoepithelial cells in mammary glands?

Myoepithelial cells contract to aid the expulsion of milk from the alveoli into the ducts.

Describe the structure of mammary lobules.

Mammary lobules are clusters of alveoli, connected by small ducts, responsible for milk production and secretion.

What triggers the onset of mammary gland function in a newborn’s development?

The onset of mammary gland function is triggered by hormonal changes leading to lactogenesis.

How are genetic factors involved in mammary gland development?

Genetic factors influence the growth, differentiation, and functional capacity of mammary glands through gene expression and hormonal regulation.

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