The mammary gland develops through several distinct stages. The first transpires in the embryo as the ectoderm forms a mammary line that resolves into placodes which leads to various stages like mammary bud, primary sprout, secondary and tertiary sprouts. Simultaneously the connective tissue whorls, fat pad, teat and gland sinus and other associated structures like sweat and sebaceous glands are also developed. Regulated by epithelial/mesenchymal interactions, the placodes descend into the underlying mesenchyme and produce the ductal structure of the gland present at birth. These processes require numerous signaling pathways that fuel the dramatic changes in the gland occurring during prenatal life. Our knowledge of morphogenesis of mammary gland and its biology may reveal the ways to manipulate the development of mammary gland to enhance milk production in mature buffalo and to treat various diseases. | Morphogenesis of mammary gland in Indian buffalo (Bubalus Bubalis): A review on prenatal study
