Work

Key stages in mammary gland development - Involution: apoptosis and tissue remodelling that convert the mammary gland from milk factory to a quiescent organ

Year: 2006

Type: review

Abstract: Involution of the mammary gland is an essential process that removes the milk-producing epithelial cells when they become redundant at weaning. It is a two-step process that involves the death of the secretory epithelium and its replacement by adipocytes. During the first phase, remodelling is inhibited and apoptotic cells can be seen in the lumena of the alveoli. In the second phase, apoptosis is accompanied by remodelling of the surrounding stroma and re-differentiation of the adipocytes. Considerable effort has been directed towards understanding the molecular mechanisms of the involution process and this has resulted in the identification of the principal signalling pathways involved.

Source: Breast Cancer Research

DOI: 10.1186/bcr1401

Author: Christine J Watson

Institution: University of Cambridge

Language: English

Topic: Estrogen and related hormone effects

Subfield: Endocrinology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $4,190