Which of the following is the functional unit of breast?
A. Ampulla
B. Myoepithelial cells
C. Acini cells
D. Lactiferous duct.
Correct answer: C. Acini cells
Explanation
Other Options Details
Here is the description of each option:
A. Ampulla
- The ampulla is the widened dilated part of the fallopian tube located between the infundibulum and isthmus.
- It is the site where fertilization commonly occurs when a sperm meets the ovum.
- Its structure allows the zygote to be transported toward the uterus.
B. Myoepithelial cells
- These are specialized contractile cells found around the alveoli (acini) and ducts of mammary glands.
- They respond to oxytocin, causing contraction that helps eject milk during breastfeeding (milk let-down reflex).
- They lie between the basal lamina and epithelial cells.
C. Acini cells
- Also called alveolar or secretory cells.
- These cells are part of the mammary gland lobules and are responsible for producing and secreting milk.
- They respond mainly to prolactin, which stimulates milk synthesis.
D. Lactiferous duct
- These ducts transport milk from the lobules (acini) to the nipple.
- They widen into a lactiferous sinus near the nipple where milk can be temporarily stored.
- They play an important role in milk drainage and breastfeeding.
The functional unit of the breast is the Alveolus (Acinus), also called the Terminal Duct Lobular Unit (TDLU).
Explanation
- The breast is composed of lobes, which are further divided into lobules.
- Each lobule contains many alveoli (acini).
- Alveoli are lined with secretory epithelial cells that produce milk.
- Milk is pushed out by myoepithelial cells surrounding the alveoli and travels through lactiferous ducts to the nipple.
Therefore
👉 Functional unit of the breast = Alveoli (Acini) / Terminal Duct Lobular Unit (TDLU)
Key points
Structure Function Alveoli / Acini Produce milk Myoepithelial cells Push milk out Lactiferous ducts Transport milk to nipple Lobules & Lobes Organizational structure, not functional
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)