Conclusions

Abstract

The mammary gland represents a unique organ from a neuroendocrine point of view, since its development and secretory function are regulated by a harmonious concord of most of the endocrine glands and the central nervous system. Few other tissues in the body are influenced by so many endocrine, neural, and environmental factors. All of the anterior and posterior pituitary hormones may act on the mammary gland, either directly or through hormones of target organs, and all of them are controled by the hypothalamus. Parathormone, insulin, placental hormones, and perhaps relaxin may also influence mammary function. Since the survival of most mammalian species would not be possible without milk, which requires an immense supply of protein, fats, sugar and calcium, it is perhaps not surprising that so many mechanisms have been evoked to permit the growth and secretory function of the mammary gland.