Explain the physiology of lactation, Science

Assignment Help:

Explain the Physiology of Lactation

Lactogenesis is the onset of copious milk secretion around parturition, triggered by a fall in plasma progesterone levels. Although some colostrum is secreted after delivery (2-3 days), full lactation begins later. The first 2-3 days after delivery is a period of rapid lactation initiation, followed by the longer period of maintenance of lactation. This complex neuroendocrine process is facilitated by interplay of various hormones. Oxytocin and prolactin instigate the lactation process, Prolactin is responsible for milk production and oxytocin is involved in milk ejection from the breast. The basic secretory units of the mammary gland, as you may already know now, are the alveoli composed of a single layer of epithelial cells. The alveoli produce the secretory product.

Surrounding the alveoli are the myoepithelial cells which are contractile and are responsible for the ejection of milk from alveoli and alveolar ducts. A cyclic process of secretory activity, luminal distention and expulsion of milk into the duct system continues throughout lactation as directed by the suckling of the infant and the letdown reflex.

Regular sucking stimulates the continuation of milk secretion. Milk removal from the breast is a product of coordinated interaction between suckling of the infant and letdown reflex of the mother. As the infant commences suckling, afferent impulses generated in the receptors in the areola travel to the brain where they stimulate the release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary. Oxytocin travels through the blood stream to the breast where it combines with specific receptors on the myoepithelial cells, stimulating them to contract and force milk from the alveoli into the mammary ducts and sinuses.


Related Discussions:- Explain the physiology of lactation

Protozoan, what is the scientific classification of a protozoan

what is the scientific classification of a protozoan

The effect of soap on surface tension, The effect of soap on surface tensio...

The effect of soap on surface tension Select a large plate and rinse it unless you are sure that it is very clean. Fill the plate with cold water and let it stand for a time on

Earth Science, What are the heat sources in the earth?

What are the heat sources in the earth?

Lmmunoglobulin g - classification of antibodies, lmmunoglobulin G  - class...

lmmunoglobulin G  - classification of antibodies Major defence against bacteria and their toxins. It is the major Ig - 80% in the body, can cross the capillary wall very easily

Neanderthals, Neanderthals: These were the first human like fossils fo...

Neanderthals: These were the first human like fossils found. The Neanderthals  existed  throughout western Europe and across into the near east and central Asia from about  10

Science in the post-renaissance period (1540- 1760) , Science in the post-...

Science in the post-renaissance period  (1540- 1760): We have seen above that  improved techniques as well as growing trade had  led to great voyages to many lands. These were

Explain bile salts - constituents of bile, Explain Bile Salts - Constituent...

Explain Bile Salts - Constituents of Bile The liver is the site for synthesis of bile salts. The amino acid glycine is synthesized in the body. Taurine is derived from the sulp

Eye injuries-first aid treatment of localized injuries, Eye Injuries : The...

Eye Injuries : The eyes are a particularly vulnerable part of your body. Safety glasses, goggles or a face shield are a 'must' for any experiment where there is any , danger of sp

Difference between bonded contact and standard contact, 1. What is the diff...

1. What is the difference between an explicit method over implicit in FEA? Which one will you use over the other? Name the kind of analysis. 2. What is the Newton Raphson method

SURVEYIN, how to overcome river in chain surveying

how to overcome river in chain surveying

Write Your Message!

Captcha
Free Assignment Quote

Assured A++ Grade

Get guaranteed satisfaction & time on delivery in every assignment order you paid with us! We ensure premium quality solution document along with free turntin report!

All rights reserved! Copyrights ©2019-2020 ExpertsMind IT Educational Pvt Ltd