Mammariinäärmeid

Mammariinäärmeid, often referred to as mammary glands, are specialized organs found in female mammals responsible for producing milk to nourish their young. These glands are typically located on the chest or abdomen. The development and function of mammary glands are intricately linked to hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy and lactation.

Histologically, mammary glands are composed of glandular tissue embedded within a fatty stroma. The glandular tissue contains alveoli, which are small sac-like structures where milk is synthesized and secreted. These alveoli are connected to a network of ducts that eventually lead to the nipple, allowing for the expulsion of milk.

Hormones such as prolactin, estrogen, and progesterone play crucial roles in mammary gland development and milk production. Prolactin is essential for stimulating milk synthesis, while estrogen and progesterone influence the structural development of the glands during puberty and pregnancy. After birth, the act of suckling by the infant triggers the release of oxytocin, which stimulates the contraction of myoepithelial cells surrounding the alveoli, leading to milk ejection.

The composition of milk varies among different species, but it generally contains water, lactose, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. This nutrient-rich fluid provides essential nourishment and immunological protection for the developing offspring. The size and number of mammary glands can also vary significantly depending on the species, reflecting reproductive strategies and the number of offspring typically nursed.