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Updated: Jul 30, 2025

Evaluation of Mammary Gland Development and Function in Mouse Models
Published on: July 21, 2011
Changes in the mammary gland during aging and its links with breast diseases
Junqiang Lin1, Shihui Ye1, Hao Ke1
1Human Aging Research Institute (HARI) and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Human Aging, Nanchang 330031, China.
Abstract:
The functional capacity of organisms declines in the process of aging. In the case of breast tissue, abnormal mammary gland development can lead to dysfunction in milk secretion, a primary function, as well as the onset of various diseases, such as breast cancer. In the process of aging, the terminal duct lobular units (TDLUs) within the breast undergo gradual degeneration, while the proportion of adipose tissue in the breast continues to increase and hormonal levels in the breast change accordingly. Here, we review changes in morphology, internal structure, and cellular composition that occur in the mammary gland during aging. We also explore the emerging mechanisms of breast aging and the relationship between changes during aging and breast-related diseases, as well as potential interventions for delaying mammary gland aging and preventing breast disease.
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