Proliferation kinetics in the mammary gland of the mouse during postnatal development
Korpsmeier, K.H.
Anatomischer Anzeiger 145(4): 313-318
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-2786 PMID: 507363 Document Number: 152186
Radioautographical studies after incorporation of [3H]thymidine in the mammary gland of the mouse demonstrated a decrease in the rate of mitosis in parenchymal epithelial cells from 80/1000 cells in the 1st wk of life to 15/1000 cells in the 2nd wk and an increase again at the 25th day of life of 100/1000 cells. The labelled nuclei were distributed irregularly in the glandular epithelium. Highest mitotic activity was found at the bifurcation of ducts and at the base of sprouting end buds. In contrast labelled myoepithelial cells were distributed uniformly throughout all parts of the developing gland. The external shape of the teat of the female mammary gland was a result of local differences in the rate of mitosis of the basal cell layer of the epidermis and the epithelium of the teat anlage.