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Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Evaluation of Mammary Gland Development and Function in Mouse Models
Published on: July 21, 2011
Parathyroid hormone-related protein and calcium homeostasis in lactating mice
M E Melton1, J J D'Anza, S A Wimbiscus
1Departmen of Medicine, Department of Veterans Affairs West Side, Chicago, Illinois.
Abstract:
Parathyroid hormone (PTH)-related protein has been shown to be a factor responsible for hypercalcemia of malignancy. Recent studies have shown the presence of mRNA for PTH-related protein in lactating breast tissue, suggesting a physiological role for this peptide during lactation. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of neutralization of PTH-related protein activity in lactating mice (by passive immunization) on various parameters of maternal and neonatal calcium homeostasis. PTH-related protein bioactivity, as tested in the adenylate cyclase assay, was present in mouse milk, and this activity was completely neutralized by the antisera used in the present study. In lactating mice, the effects of injection of PTH-related protein antisera on maternal serum calcium concentrations, milk calcium and phosphorus concentration, pup growth, dam femur calcium content, and pup calcium content were similar to those of the injection of normal rabbit serum. Therefore, maternal PTH-related protein does not appear to have a role in calcium homeostasis during lactation.
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