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Journal of Mammary Gland Biology and Neoplasia
Published in: Journal of Mammary Gland Biology and Neoplasia 4/2020

01-12-2020 | Lactation

Got Milk? Identifying and Characterizing Lactation Defects in Genetically-Engineered Mouse Models

Authors: Teneale A. Stewart, Felicity M. Davis

Published in: Journal of Mammary Gland Biology and Neoplasia | Issue 4/2020

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Abstract

The ability to produce and expel milk is important for the health and survival of all mammals. Nevertheless, our understanding of the molecular events underlying the execution of this process remains incomplete. Whilst impaired mammary gland development and lactational competence remains the subject of focused investigations, defects in these events may also be an unintended consequence of genetic manipulation in rodent models. In this technical report, we outline established and emerging methods to characterize lactation phenotypes in genetically-engineered mouse models. We discuss important considerations of common models, optimized conditions for mating and the importance of litter size and standardization. Methods for quantifying milk production and quality, as well as protocols for wholemount preparation, immunohistochemistry and the preparation of RNA and protein lysates are provided. This review is intended to help guide researchers new to the field of mammary gland biology in the systematic analysis of lactation defects and in the preparation of samples for more focused mechanistic investigations.
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Metadata
Title
Got Milk? Identifying and Characterizing Lactation Defects in Genetically-Engineered Mouse Models
Authors
Teneale A. Stewart
Felicity M. Davis
Publication date
01-12-2020
Publisher
Springer US
Keyword
Lactation
Published in
Journal of Mammary Gland Biology and Neoplasia / Issue 4/2020
Print ISSN: 1083-3021
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7039
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10911-020-09467-y

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