Mammary gland in mammals are modified
A. Salivary gland
B. Lacrimal gland
C. Sweat gland
D. Sebaceous gland
Correct Answer:C. Sweat gland
Mammary glands in mammals are modified sweat glands.
Here’s a detailed explanation:
- Origin: Mammary glands are ectodermal in origin, arising from the skin.
- Modification: They are specialized apocrine sweat glands that have evolved to secrete milk instead of sweat.
- Function: Their primary function is lactation—producing and secreting milk to nourish offspring.
- Structure: They consist of lobes and lobules, with alveoli lined by secretory epithelial cells. Milk is collected in ducts and released through the nipple.
- Regulation: Their activity is regulated by hormones like prolactin (stimulates milk production) and oxytocin (stimulates milk ejection).
So, in short: mammary glands are modified sweat glands adapted for milk production in mammals.
Other Options Details
Here is the description for all the options:
A. Salivary gland
- These glands produce saliva, which contains enzymes such as amylase.
- Saliva helps in digestion of starch, lubrication of food, and speech.
- Examples: Parotid, Submandibular, and Sublingual glands.
B. Lacrimal gland
- These glands produce tears.
- Tears help in lubricating, cleaning, and protecting the surface of the eye.
- Located in the upper lateral part of the orbit (eye socket).
C. Sweat gland
- Also called sudoriferous glands.
- They produce sweat, which helps in temperature regulation and excretion of waste products like salts and urea.
- Two types: Eccrine (all over the body) and Apocrine (armpits, groin).
D. Sebaceous gland
- These glands secrete sebum, an oily substance.
- Sebum helps to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair.
- Most are associated with hair follicles.
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)