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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
08:51
Evaluation of Mammary Gland Development and Function in Mouse Models
Published on: July 21, 2011
Autocrine regulation of milk secretion
C J Wilde1, C V Addey, J M Bryson
1Hannah Research Institute, Ayr, Scotland, U.K.
Biochemical Society Symposium
|March 26, 1998
Summary
A novel milk protein, the feedback inhibitor of lactation (FIL), regulates milk secretion rate and mammary gland development. FIL accumulation in the mammary gland inhibits milk production, while its removal stimulates secretion.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Lactation Physiology
Background:
- Mammary development and milk secretion are influenced by milk removal frequency.
- Chemical feedback inhibition by milk constituents plays a regulatory role.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize novel milk proteins involved in feedback inhibition of lactation.
- To elucidate the mechanism of action and physiological consequences of this feedback inhibitor.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of immunologically related milk proteins from caprine, bovine, and human milk.
- Inhibition assays in mammary tissue and cell cultures.
- Analysis of milk protein synthesis, messenger RNA abundance, and hormone receptor expression.
Main Results:
- Novel milk proteins, including caprine feedback inhibitor of lactation (FIL), were isolated.
- FIL inhibits milk constituent synthesis and secretion in a concentration-dependent manner.
- FIL acts via an autocrine mechanism, reversibly blocking the secretory pathway and down-regulating hormone receptors.
Conclusions:
- Feedback inhibitor of lactation (FIL) is a key regulator of milk secretion rate and mammary gland differentiation.
- FIL integrates acute intramammary regulation with endocrine control of mammary tissue development.
- Understanding FIL's mechanism provides insights into lactation control and mammary gland biology.
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