Mammary Gland-Endocrinology

Abstract The field of endocrinology spans basic physiology through clinical medical application. It focuses on organs and cell types that generate hormones and their signaling through receptors in target organs. The mammary gland both produces hormones and receives exogenous hormonal stimulation. In the mammary gland these include both steroid hormones such as estrogen and progesterone linked to sexual development and cytokine-like molecules including prolactin and related molecules that mediate lactation. Both types of hormones have been associated with breast cancer. Here we will review endogenous and exogenous mammary gland hormones, cognate receptor expression, and define influences on physiology and disease.