Abstract
Development of the mammary gland requires the coordinated action of proteolytic enzymes during two phases of remodelling. Firstly, new ducts and side-branches thereof need to be established during pregnancy to generate an extensive ductal tree allowing the secretion and transport of milk. A second wave of remodelling occurs during mammary involution after weaning. We have analysed the role of the cell surface protease aminopeptidase N (Anpep, APN, CD13) during these processes using Anpep deficient and Anpep over-expressing mice. We find that APN deficiency significantly delays mammary gland morphogenesis during gestation. The defect is characterised by a reduction in alveolar buds and duct branching at mid-pregnancy. Conversely over-expression of Anpep leads to accelerated ductal development. This indicates that Anpep plays a critical role in the proteolytic remodelling of mammary tissue during adult mammary development.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 425-434 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Transgenic Research |
Volume | 22 |
Issue number | 2 |
Early online date | 15 Sept 2012 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Apr 2013 |
Keywords
- mammary gland
- protease
- gene locus
- homologous recombination
- development