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Updated: Jul 15, 2025
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Changes in Mammary Gland Morphology and Breast Cancer Risk in Rats
Published on: October 16, 2010
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Morphofunctional Parameters of Mast Cell Population in Experimentally Induced Breast Cancer in Rats
L M Erofeeva1, M V Mnikhovich2, T B Bezuglova2
1A. P. Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, B. V. Pet-rovsky Russian Research Center of Surgery, Moscow, Russia. gystology@mail.ru.
Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine
|September 30, 2023
Summary
Mast cells (MC) in rat mammary glands show increased population and activation during breast cancer. These immune cells exhibit ultrastructural changes, indicating their active role in the tumor microenvironment.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Mast cells (MC) are immune cells involved in inflammatory and allergic responses.
- Their role in cancer, particularly breast cancer, is complex and requires further investigation.
- Understanding MC behavior in the tumor microenvironment is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the structural and functional changes of mast cells in rat mammary glands during experimentally induced breast cancer.
- To elucidate the specific alterations in MC population, degranulation, and secretory products.
- To assess the ultrastructural characteristics of MC in the context of breast cancer.
Main Methods:
- Histological analysis using cytograms and toluidine blue staining.
- Assessment of degranulation and saturation indices.
- Electron microscopy for ultrastructural evaluation of mast cells.
Main Results:
- Mast cell population expanded significantly in mammary glands with induced breast cancer.
- Mast cells exhibited signs of activation, including high degranulation and reduced saturation index.
- Ultrastructural analysis revealed MC deformation, polymorphism, pale granules, and increased cytoplasmic lacunae.
Conclusions:
- Mast cells are dynamically involved in the tumor microenvironment of breast cancer.
- The observed heteromorphism and activation suggest a significant role for MC in breast cancer pathogenesis.
- Further research into MC functions in various tumor diseases is warranted.
