Description: Mammary glands are specialized structures found in female mammals, whose primary function is to produce milk to feed their offspring. These glands are a type of glandular tissue that develops from the skin and are composed of lobules containing milk-producing cells, known as alveolar cells. During pregnancy and lactation, mammary glands undergo significant changes in size and functionality, stimulated by hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin. The milk produced is rich in nutrients, antibodies, and growth factors, making it an ideal food for the initial development of mammals. In addition to their nutritional function, mammary glands also play an important role in the mother-offspring bond, facilitating interaction and parental care. The arrangement and number of mammary glands can vary between species; for example, humans typically have two mammary glands, while other mammals, such as rats, may have more. In summary, mammary glands are essential for the survival of mammalian offspring, providing not only food but also immune protection and an emotional bond between mother and child.
