CLE Anatomy & Physiology of Lactation 2

Question 1

Which hormone is primarily responsible for triggering milk ejection during breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Oxytocin

Answer

Oxytocin, released from the posterior pituitary, causes myoepithelial cells surrounding alveoli to contract and eject milk.

Question 2

What is the primary role of prolactin in lactation?

Accepted Answer

Stimulating milk synthesis in alveolar cells

Answer

Prolactin, secreted by the anterior pituitary, binds to receptors on alveolar epithelial cells to drive milk synthesis.

Question 3

During pregnancy, high levels of which hormones suppress full milk production despite rising prolactin?

Accepted Answer

Estrogen and progesterone

Answer

Placental estrogen and progesterone block prolactin's action on alveolar cells, preventing full lactogenesis until after delivery.

Question 4

Which cells in the breast surround alveoli and contract in response to oxytocin?

Accepted Answer

Myoepithelial cells

Answer

Myoepithelial cells are basket-like contractile cells that wrap around alveoli and squeeze milk into the ductal system when stimulated by oxytocin.

Question 5

Where is prolactin produced?

Accepted Answer

Anterior pituitary gland

Answer

Prolactin is produced by lactotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland in response to suckling stimuli.

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