Mammary stem cell research in veterinary science: an update

Stem Cells Dev. 2013 Jun 15;22(12):1743-51. doi: 10.1089/scd.2012.0677. Epub 2013 Mar 5.

Abstract

The mammary gland is an organ with a remarkable regenerative capacity that can undergo multiple cycles of proliferation, lactation, and involution. Growing evidence suggests that these changes are driven by the coordinated division and differentiation of mammary stem cell populations (MaSC). Whereas information regarding MaSC and their role in comparative mammary gland physiology is readily available in human and mice, such information remains scarce in most veterinary mammal species such as cows, horses, sheep, goats, pigs, and dogs. We believe that a better knowledge on the MaSC in these species will not only help to gain more insights into mammary gland (patho) physiology in veterinary medicine, but will also be of value for human medicine. Therefore, this review summarizes the current knowledge on stem cell isolation and characterization in different mammals of veterinary importance.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biomarkers / metabolism
  • Cattle
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Separation / methods
  • Dogs
  • Epithelial Cells / cytology
  • Epithelial Cells / metabolism
  • Female
  • Goats
  • Horses
  • Mammary Glands, Animal / cytology*
  • Mammary Glands, Animal / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Neoplastic Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Neoplastic Stem Cells / pathology*
  • Sheep, Domestic
  • Stem Cell Research*
  • Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Swine

Substances

  • Biomarkers