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Stem and progenitor cell division kinetics during postnatal mouse mammary gland development
Rajshekhar R Giraddi1, Mona Shehata1, Mercedes Gallardo2
1Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, University of Cambridge, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK.
Nature Communications
|October 30, 2015
Summary
Mammary stem cell division is primarily linked to estrogen receptor-expressing luminal cells. These cells, along with basal and milk cells, are maintained by restricted progenitors, not a strict hierarchy.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Stem Cell Biology
Background:
- The cell division patterns of mammary stem and progenitor cells are not well understood.
- Investigating these patterns is crucial for understanding mammary gland development and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the division properties of mammary stem and progenitor cells.
- To elucidate the hierarchical organization and self-renewal mechanisms within the mammary gland.
Main Methods:
- Administration of synthetic nucleosides to mice at different developmental stages.
- Monitoring nucleoside uptake in various mammary cell compartments.
- Analysis of telomere lengths and cell division kinetics.
Main Results:
- Most adult virgin mammary gland cell division occurs in estrogen receptor-expressing luminal cells.
- Estrogen receptor-expressing, milk, and basal cell subpopulations exhibit division kinetics and telomere lengths inconsistent with hierarchical organization.
- Transplantable mammary stem cells are quiescent during oestrus and cycling during dioestrus.
Conclusions:
- Mammary gland homeostasis in adult mice is maintained by restricted progenitors for each cell type.
- Estrogen receptor signaling plays a key role in regulating mammary stem and progenitor cell division.
- Progesterone levels influence mammary stem cell cycling, with increased activity during dioestrus.
