Selective DNA Segregation in Mammary Cells During Pregnancy
Author Information
Author(s): Brian W. Booth, Corinne A. Boulanger, Gilbert H. Smith
Primary Institution: National Cancer Institute
Hypothesis
The role of long label-retaining epithelial cells (LREC) during alveogenesis in the mouse mammary gland has not been determined.
Conclusion
Long-lived label-retaining cells in the mouse mammary gland persist during pregnancy and contribute to tissue expansion while maintaining their original DNA strands.
Supporting Evidence
- Estrogen receptor-α positive and progesterone receptor positive cells represented approximately 30% to 40% of the LREC.
- Pregnancy altered the percentage of LREC expressing estrogen receptor-α.
- New cycling LREC appeared during alveologenesis.
Takeaway
Some special cells in the breast can keep their DNA safe while they grow and divide, especially during pregnancy.
Methodology
Immunohistochemistry and autoradiography were performed on murine mammary glands labeled with 5-bromodeoxyuridine and [3H]-thymidine to identify label-retaining cells.
Limitations
The study was conducted on murine models, which may not fully represent human biology.
Participant Demographics
Pregnant female mice were used in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0446
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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