maitorauhassoluja

Maitorauhassoluja, also known as mammary epithelial cells, are the functional cells of the mammary gland. These cells are responsible for the production and secretion of milk, a vital source of nutrition for newborns. They line the alveoli, which are small, sac-like structures within the mammary gland.

The development and function of these cells are tightly regulated by hormones, particularly prolactin, which stimulates milk production, and oxytocin, which causes milk ejection. During pregnancy, under the influence of estrogen and progesterone, the mammary glands undergo significant proliferation and differentiation, preparing the epithelial cells for lactation.

Milk secretion occurs through a process called lactation. This involves two primary mechanisms: apocrine secretion, where a portion of the cell membrane pinches off to release milk fat, and merocrine secretion, where proteins and lactose are released into the alveolar lumen. The composition of milk, including its fat, protein, and carbohydrate content, is determined by the metabolic activity of the maitoarauhassoluja.

After weaning, these cells undergo involution, a process of programmed cell death and tissue remodeling, returning the mammary gland to a non-lactating state. The health and function of maitoarauhassoluja are crucial for successful breastfeeding and infant development.