Overview of Mammary Gland Development: A Comparison of Mouse and Human

Hormonal regulation of miRNA during mammary gland development

The mammary gland is a unique organ as most of its development occurs after birth through stages of proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis that are tightly regulated by circulating hormones and growth factors. Throughout development, hormonal cues induce the regulation of different pathways, ultimately leading to differential transcription and expression of genes involved in this process, but also in the activation or inhibition of post-transcriptional mechanisms of regulation. However, the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the different phases of mammary gland remodeling is still poorly understood. The objectives of this study were to analyze the expression of miRNA in key stages of mammary gland development in mice and to determine whether it could be associated with hormonal variation between stages. To do so, miRNAs were isolated from mouse mammary glands at stages of adulthood, pregnancy, lactation and involution, and sequenced. Results showed that 490, 473, 419, and 460 miRNAs are detected in adult, pregnant, lactating and involuting mice, respectively, most of them being common to all four groups, and 58 unique to one stage. Most genes could be divided into six clusters of expression, including two encompassing the highest number of miRNA (clusters 1 and 3) and showing opposite profiles of expression, reaching a peak at adulthood and valley at lactation, or showing the lowest expression at adulthood and peaking at lactation. GO and KEGG analyses suggest that the miRNAs differentially expressed between stages influence the expression of targets associated with mammary gland homeostasis and hormone regulation. To further understand the links between miRNA expression and hormones involved in mammary gland development, miRNAs were then sequenced in breast cells exposed to estradiol, progesterone, prolactin and oxytocin. Four, 38, 24 and 66 miRNAs were associated with progesterone, estradiol, prolactin, and oxytocin exposure, respectively. Finally, when looking at miRNAs modulated by the hormones, differentially expressed during mammary gland development, and having a pattern of expression that could be correlated with the relative levels of hormones known to be found in vivo, 16 miRNAs were identified as likely regulated by circulating hormones. Overall, our study brings a better understanding of the regulation of miRNAs throughout mammary gland development and suggests that there is a relationship between their expression and the main hormones involved in mammary gland development. Future studies will examine this role more in detail.

Epithelial IL-2 is critical for NK cell-mediated cancer immunosurveillance in mammary glands

Interleukin 2 (IL-2) is the first identified cytokine and its interaction with receptors has been known to shape the immune responses in many lymphoid or non-lymphoid tissues for more than four decades. Active T cells are the primary cellular source for IL-2 production and epithelial cells have never been considered the major cellular source of IL-2 under physiological conditions. It is, however, tempting to speculate that epithelial cells could potentially express IL-2 that regulates the intricate interactions between epithelial cells and lymphocytes. Datamining our recently published single-cell RNAseq in the mouse mammary gland identified IL-2 expression in mammary epithelial cells, which is induced by prolactin via the STAT5 signaling pathway. Furthermore, epithelial IL-2 plays a crucial role in maintaining the physiological functions of natural killer (NK) cells within the mammary glands. IL-2 deletion in the mammary epithelial cells leads to a significant reduction in the number and function of NK cells, which in turn results in defective immunosurveillance, expansion of luminal epithelial cells, and tumor development. Interestingly, T cells in the mammary glands are not changed, indicating the specific regulation of NK cells by epithelial IL-2 production. In agreement, we also found that human epithelial cells express IL-2 and NK cells express the highest level of IL2RB among all the immune cells. Here, we provide the first evidence that epithelial cells produce IL-2, which is critical for maintaining the physiological functions of NK cells in immunosurveillance.

Protein Dynamic Landscape during Mouse Mammary Gland Development from Virgin to Pregnant, Lactating, and Involuting Stages

The mammary gland undergoes significant physiological changes as it undergoes a transition from virgin to pregnancy, lactation, and involution. However, the dynamic role of proteins in regulating these processes during mouse mammary gland development has not been thoroughly explored. In this study, we collected mouse mammary gland tissues from mature virgins aged 8-10 weeks (V), day 16 of pregnancy (P16d), day 12 of lactation (L12d), day 1 of forced weaning (FW 1d), and day 3 of forced weaning (FW 3d) stages for analysis using DIA-based quantitative proteomics technology. A total of 3,312 proteins were identified, of which 843 were DAPs that were categorized into nine clusters based on their abundance changes across developmental stages. Notably, DAPs in cluster 2, which peaked at the L12d stage, were primarily associated with mammary gland development and lactation. The protein-protein interaction network revealed that the epidermal growth factor (EGF) was central to this cluster. Our study provides a comprehensive overview of the mouse mammary gland development proteome and identifies some important proteins, such as EGF, Janus kinase 1 (JAK1), and signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) that may serve as potential targets for future research to provide guidelines for a deeper understanding of the developmental biology of mammary glands.

Deciphering the spatial landscape and plasticity of immunosuppressive fibroblasts in breast cancer

Although heterogeneity of FAP+ Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAF) has been described in breast cancer, their plasticity and spatial distribution remain poorly understood. Here, we analyze trajectory inference, deconvolute spatial transcriptomics at single-cell level and perform functional assays to generate a high-resolution integrated map of breast cancer (BC), with a focus on inflammatory and myofibroblastic (iCAF/myCAF) FAP+ CAF clusters. We identify 10 spatially-organized FAP+ CAF-related cellular niches, called EcoCellTypes, which are differentially localized within tumors. Consistent with their spatial organization, cancer cells drive the transition of detoxification-associated iCAF (Detox-iCAF) towards immunosuppressive extracellular matrix (ECM)-producing myCAF (ECM-myCAF) via a DPP4- and YAP-dependent mechanism. In turn, ECM-myCAF polarize TREM2+ macrophages, regulatory NK and T cells to induce immunosuppressive EcoCellTypes, while Detox-iCAF are associated with FOLR2+ macrophages in an immuno-protective EcoCellType. FAP+ CAF subpopulations accumulate differently according to the invasive BC status and predict invasive recurrence of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), which could help in identifying low-risk DCIS patients eligible for therapeutic de-escalation.

Mechanisms of adverse mammary effect induced by olanzapine and therapeutic interventions in rat model

BACKGROUND

Olanzapine antagonizes dopamine receptors and is prescribed to treat multiple psychiatric conditions. The main side effect of concern for olanzapine is weight gain and metabolic syndrome. Olanzapine induces hyperprolactinemia, however its effect on the mammary gland is poorly documented.

METHODS

Rats received olanzapine by gavage or in drinking water at 1, 3, and 6 mg/kg/day for 5-40 days or 100 days, with and without coadministration of bromocriptine or aripiprazole and using once daily or continuous administration strategies. Histomorphology of the mammary gland, concentrations of prolactin, estradiol, progesterone, and olanzapine in serum, mammary gland and adipose tissue, and mRNA and protein expressions of prolactin receptors were analyzed.

RESULTS

In adult and prepubescent female rats and male rats, olanzapine induced significant development of mammary glands in dose- and time-dependent manners, with histopathological hyperplasia of mammary ducts and alveoli with lumen dilation and secretion, marked increase of mammary prolactin receptor expression, a marker of breast tissue, and with mild increase of circulating prolactin. This side effect can be reversed after medication withdrawal, but long-term olanzapine treatment for 100 days implicated tumorigenic potentials indicated by usual ductal epithelial hyperplasia. Olanzapine induced mammary development was prevented with the coaddition of the dopamine agonist bromocriptine or partial agonist aripiprazole, or by continuous administration of medication instead of a once daily regimen.

CONCLUSIONS

These results shed light on the previously overlooked effect of olanzapine on mammary development and present experimental evidence to support current clinical management strategies of antipsychotic induced side effects in the breast.

Transcriptome analysis reveals immune function-related mRNA expression in donkey mammary glands during four developmental stages

The low susceptibility to mastitis of female donkey (jenny) mammary glands and the strong immune properties of donkey milk are acknowledged, but little is known about the genes involved in mammary gland immunity in jennies. Herein, we used RNA-sequencing and bioinformatics analyses to explore jenny mammary gland transcriptomes and detect potential functional differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs related to immunity during four specific developmental stages: foetal (F), pubertal (P), adult parous nonlactation (N) and lactation (L). A total of 2497, 583 and 1820 DE mRNAs were identified in jenny mammary glands at F vs. P, P vs. N, and N vs. L, respectively. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomes (KEGG) analyses revealed numerous GO terms related to immune function, especially between F and P. Seven significantly enriched profiles were identified, among which 497 and 1261 DE mRNAs were upregulated in profiles 19 and 17. Eleven mRNAs were enriched in over 10 KEGG pathways. β-2-microglobulin (B2M), immunoglobulin heavy constant mu (IGHM), toll like receptor 2 (TLR2), toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MYD88) were mainly involved in phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt signalling, phagosome and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-kappa B) signalling pathways. The findings provide insight into the molecular features underpinning the low prevalence of intramammary infections (i.e., mastitis) in donkeys.

Codonopsis lanceolata polysaccharide ameliorates high-fat diet induced-postpartum hypogalactia via stimulating prolactin receptor-mediated Jak2/Stat5 signaling

This study aims to investigate the ameliorative effect of Codonopsis lanceolata polysaccharide (PCL) on mice with hypogalatia induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and the potential underlying mechanism. We found that oral administration of PCL demonstrated significant benefits in countering the negative effects of HFD, including weight gain, hepatic steatosis, mesenteric adipocyte hypertrophy, and abnormal glucose/lipid metabolism. In addition, PCL improved mammary gland development and enhanced lactogenesis performance. Histologically, PCL ameliorated the retardation of ductal growth, reduced mammary fat pad thickness, improved the incomplete linear encapsulation of luminal epithelium and myoepithelium, and increased the proliferation of mammary epithelial cells. Flow cytometry analysis showed that PCL mitigated the detrimental effects of HFD on mammary gland development by promoting the proliferation and differentiation of mammary epithelial cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that PCL upregulated the levels of prolactin (PRL) and its receptor (PRLR) in the mammary gland, activated JAK2/STAT5 signaling pathway, and increased the expression of p63, ERBB4, and NRG1. Overall, PCL can ameliorate HFD-induced hypogalactia by activating PRLR-mediated JAK2/STAT5 signaling. Our findings offer a methodological and theoretical foundation for investigating the functional constituents of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of hypogalactia.

A Decision Tree to Guide Human and Mouse Mammary Organoid Model Selection

Over the past 50 years, researchers from the mammary gland field have launched a collection of distinctive 3D cell culture systems to study multiple aspects of mammary gland physiology and disease. As our knowledge about the mammary gland evolves, more sophisticated 3D cell culture systems are required to answer more and more complex questions. Nowadays, morphologically complex mammary organoids can be generated in distinct 3D settings, along with reproduction of multiple aspects of the gland microenvironment. Yet, each 3D culture protocol comes with its advantages and limitations, where some culture systems are best suited to study stemness potential, whereas others are tailored towards the study of mammary gland morphogenesis. Therefore, prior to starting a 3D mammary culture experiment, it is important to consider and select the ideal culture model to address the biological question of interest. The number and technical requirements of novel 3D cell culture methods vastly increased over the past decades, making it currently challenging and time consuming to identify the best experimental testing. In this chapter, we provide a summary of the most promising murine and human 3D organoid models that are currently used in mammary gland biology research. For each model, we will provide a brief description of the protocol and an overview of the expected morphological outcome, the advantages of the model, and the potential pitfalls, to guide the reader to the best model of choice for specific applications.

Cancer invasion and metastasis: Insights from murine pubertal mammary gland morphogenesis

Cancer invasion and metastasis accounts for the majority of cancer related mortality. A better understanding of the players that drive the aberrant invasion and migration of tumors cells will provide critical targets to inhibit metastasis. Postnatal pubertal mammary gland morphogenesis is characterized by highly proliferative, invasive, and migratory normal epithelial cells. Identifying the molecular regulators of pubertal gland development is a promising strategy since tumorigenesis and metastasis is postulated to be a consequence of aberrant reactivation of developmental stages. In this review, we summarize the pubertal morphogenesis regulators that are involved in cancer metastasis and revisit pubertal mammary gland transcriptome profiling to uncover both known and unknown metastasis genes. Our updated list of pubertal morphogenesis regulators shows that most are implicated in invasion and metastasis. This review highlights molecular linkages between development and metastasis and provides a guide for exploring novel metastatic drivers.

Evolutionary histories of breast cancer and related clones

Recent studies have documented frequent evolution of clones carrying common cancer mutations in apparently normal tissues, which are implicated in cancer development1-3. However, our knowledge is still missing with regard to what additional driver events take place in what order, before one or more of these clones in normal tissues ultimately evolve to cancer. Here, using phylogenetic analyses of multiple microdissected samples from both cancer and non-cancer lesions, we show unique evolutionary histories of breast cancers harbouring der(1;16), a common driver alteration found in roughly 20% of breast cancers. The approximate timing of early evolutionary events was estimated from the mutation rate measured in normal epithelial cells. In der(1;16)(+) cancers, the derivative chromosome was acquired from early puberty to late adolescence, followed by the emergence of a common ancestor by the patient's early 30s, from which both cancer and non-cancer clones evolved. Replacing the pre-existing mammary epithelium in the following years, these clones occupied a large area within the premenopausal breast tissues by the time of cancer diagnosis. Evolution of multiple independent cancer founders from the non-cancer ancestors was common, contributing to intratumour heterogeneity. The number of driver events did not correlate with histology, suggesting the role of local microenvironments and/or epigenetic driver events. A similar evolutionary pattern was also observed in another case evolving from an AKT1-mutated founder. Taken together, our findings provide new insight into how breast cancer evolves.

Hormonal regulation of mammary gland development and lactation

Lactation is critical to infant short-term and long-term health and protects mothers from breast cancer, ovarian cancer and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The mammary gland is a dynamic organ, regulated by the coordinated actions of reproductive and metabolic hormones. These hormones promote gland development from puberty onwards and induce the formation of a branched, epithelial, milk-secreting organ by the end of pregnancy. Progesterone withdrawal following placental delivery initiates lactation, which is maintained by increased pituitary secretion of prolactin and oxytocin, and stimulated by infant suckling. After weaning, local cytokine production and decreased prolactin secretion trigger large-scale mammary cell loss, leading to gland involution. Here, we review advances in the molecular endocrinology of mammary gland development and milk synthesis. We discuss the hormonal functions of the mammary gland, including parathyroid hormone-related peptide secretion that stimulates maternal calcium mobilization for milk synthesis. We also consider the hormonal composition of human milk and its associated effects on infant health and development. Finally, we highlight endocrine and metabolic diseases that cause lactation insufficiency, for example, monogenic disorders of prolactin and prolactin receptor mutations, maternal obesity and diabetes mellitus, interventions during labour and delivery, and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as polyfluoroalkyl substances in consumer products and other oestrogenic compounds.

Segmentation and Tracking of Mammary Epithelial Organoids in Brightfield Microscopy

We present an automated and deep-learning-based workflow to quantitatively analyze the spatiotemporal development of mammary epithelial organoids in two-dimensional time-lapse (2D+t) sequences acquired using a brightfield microscope at high resolution. It involves a convolutional neural network (U-Net), purposely trained using computer-generated bioimage data created by a conditional generative adversarial network (pix2pixHD), to infer semantic segmentation, adaptive morphological filtering to identify organoid instances, and a shape-similarity-constrained, instance-segmentation-correcting tracking procedure to reliably cherry-pick the organoid instances of interest in time. By validating it using real 2D+t sequences of mouse mammary epithelial organoids of morphologically different phenotypes, we clearly demonstrate that the workflow achieves reliable segmentation and tracking performance, providing a reproducible and laborless alternative to manual analyses of the acquired bioimage data.

Cellular Plasticity and Heterotypic Interactions during Breast Morphogenesis and Cancer Initiation

Simple Summary

This review aims to discuss the structure, function and dynamics of the breast gland and how changes to the function of the breast’s cells can lead to different types of cancer.

Abstract

The human breast gland is a unique organ as most of its development occurs postnatally between menarche and menopause, a period ranging from 30 to 40 years. During this period, the monthly menstruation cycle drives the mammary gland through phases of cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, facilitated via a closely choreographed interaction between the epithelial cells and the surrounding stroma preparing the gland for pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs, maximal differentiation is reached to prepare for lactation. After lactation, the mammary gland involutes to a pre-pregnant state. These cycles of proliferation, differentiation, and involution necessitate the presence of epithelial stem cells that give rise to progenitor cells which differentiate further into the luminal and myoepithelial lineages that constitute the epithelial compartment and are responsible for the branching structure of the gland. Maintaining homeostasis and the stem cell niche depends strongly on signaling between the stem and progenitor cells and the surrounding stroma. Breast cancer is a slowly progressing disease whose initiation can take decades to progress into an invasive form. Accumulating evidence indicates that stem cells and/or progenitor cells at different stages, rather than terminally differentiated cells are the main cells of origin for most breast cancer subgroups. Stem cells and cancer cells share several similarities such as increased survival and cellular plasticity which is reflected in their ability to switch fate by receiving intrinsic and extrinsic signals. In this review, we discuss the concept of cellular plasticity in normal breast morphogenesis and cancer, and how the stromal environment plays a vital role in cancer initiation and progression.

Interplay of the transcription factor MRTF-A and matrix stiffness controls mammary acinar structure and protrusion formation

Background

Ongoing differentiation processes characterize the mammary gland during sexual development and reproduction. In contrast, defective remodelling is assumed to be causal for breast tumorigenesis. We have shown recently that the myocardin-related transcription factor A (MRTF-A) is essential for forming regular hollow acinar structures. Moreover, MRTF-A activity is known to depend on the biochemical and physical properties of the surrounding extracellular matrix. In this study we analysed the mutual interaction of different matrix stiffnesses and MRTF-A activities on formation and maintenance of mammary acini.

Methods

Human MCF10A acini and primary mature organoids isolated from murine mammary glands were cultivated in 3D on soft and stiff matrices (200–4000 Pa) in conjunction with the Rho/MRTF/SRF pathway inhibitor CCG-203971 and genetic activation of MRTF-A.

Results

Three-dimensional growth on stiff collagen matrices (> 3000 Pa) was accompanied by increased MRTF-A activity and formation of invasive protrusions in acini cultures of human mammary MCF10A cells. Differential coating and synthetic hydrogels indicated that protrusion formation was attributable to stiffness but not the biochemical constitution of the matrix. Stiffness-induced protrusion formation was also observed in preformed acini isolated from murine mammary glands. Acinar outgrowth in both the MCF10A acini and the primary organoids was partially reverted by treatment with the Rho/MRTF/SRF pathway inhibitor CCG-203971. However, genetic activation of MRTF-A in the mature primary acini also reduced protrusion formation on stiff matrices, whilst it strongly promoted luminal filling matrix-independently.

Conclusion

Our results suggest an intricate crosstalk between matrix stiffness and MRTF-A, whose activity is required for protrusion formation and sufficient for luminal filling of mammary acini.

HOXA1, a breast cancer oncogene

More than 25 years ago, the first literature records mentioned HOXA1 expression in human breast cancer. A few years later, HOXA1 was confirmed as a proper oncogene in mammary tissue. In the following two decades, molecular data about the mode of action of the HOXA1 protein, the factors contributing to activate and maintain HOXA1 gene expression and the identity of its target genes have accumulated and provide a wider view on the association of this transcription factor to breast oncogenesis. Large-scale transcriptomic data gathered from wide cohorts of patients further allowed refining the relationship between breast cancer type and HOXA1 expression. Several recent reports have reviewed the connection between cancer hallmarks and the biology of HOX genes in general. Here we take HOXA1 as a paradigm and propose an extensive overview of the molecular data centered on this oncoprotein, from what its expression modulators, to the interactors contributing to its oncogenic activities, and to the pathways and genes it controls. The data converge to an intricate picture that answers questions on the multi-modality of its oncogene activities, point towards better understanding of breast cancer aetiology and thereby provides an appraisal for treatment opportunities.

The immune environment of the mammary gland fluctuates during post-lactational regression and correlates with tumour growth rate

Post-lactational mammary gland regression encompasses extensive programmed cell death and removal of milk-producing epithelial cells, breakdown of extracellular matrix components and redifferentiation of stromal adipocytes. This highly regulated involution process is associated with a transient increased risk of breast cancer in women. Using a syngeneic tumour model, we show that tumour growth is significantly altered depending on the stage of involution at which tumour cells are implanted. Tumour cells injected at day 3 involution grew faster than those in nulliparous mice, whereas tumours initiated at day 6 involution grew significantly slower. These differences in tumour progression correlate with distinct changes in innate immune cells, in particular among F4/80-expressing macrophages and among TCRδ⁺ unconventional T cells. Breast cancer post-pregnancy risk is exacerbated in older first-time mothers and, in our model, initial tumour growth is moderately faster in aged mice compared with young mice. Our results have implications for breast cancer risk and the use of anti-inflammatory therapeutics for postpartum breast cancers.

Summary: Mammary gland involution is associated with dynamic changes in immune cell types and numbers at different stages that correlates with the initial rate of growth of implanted tumour cells.

Dormant Nfatc1 reporter-marked basal stem/progenitor cells contribute to mammary lobuloalveoli formation

The Mammary gland undergoes complicated epithelial remodeling to form lobuloalveoli during pregnancy, in which basal epithelial cells remarkably increase to form a basket-like architecture. However, it remains largely unknown how dormant mammary basal stem/progenitor cells involve in lobuloalveolar development. Here, we show that Nfatc1 expression marks a rare population of mammary epithelial cells with the majority being basal epithelial cells. Nfatc1 reporter-marked basal epithelial cells are relatively dormant mammary stem/progenitor cells. Although Nfatc1 reporter-marked basal epithelial cells have limited contribution to the homeostasis of mammary epithelium, they divide rapidly during pregnancy and contribute to lobuloalveolar development. Furthermore, Nfatc1 reporter-marked basal epithelial cells are preferentially used for multiple pregnancies. Using single-cell RNA-seq analysis, we identify multiple functionally distinct clusters within the Nfatc1 reporter-marked cell-derived progeny cells during pregnancy. Taken together, our findings underscore Nfatc1 reporter-marked basal cells as dormant stem/progenitor cells that contribute to mammary lobuloalveolar development during pregnancy.

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Nfatc1 marked a subpopulation of basal dormant stem/progenitor cells

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Nfatc1-marked cells have limited contribution to the homeostasis of mammary gland

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Nfatc1 reporter-marked cells divide rapidly during pregnancy

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Nfatc1 reporter-marked cells are preferentially used for multiple pregnancies

An Organotypic Assay to Study Epithelial-Fibroblast Interactions in Human Breast

Epithelial-stromal interactions play an essential role in regulation of mammary gland development, homeostasis, and tumorigenesis. Fibroblasts constitute a substantial proportion of mammary gland stromal cells in human breast and have been recognized for their paracrine signaling and extracellular matrix production and remodeling roles during normal breast development as well as in breast cancer. However, our current knowledge on human breast fibroblast functions is incomplete. Here we provide a detailed protocol for an organotypic human breast assay to facilitate research in the roles of human breast fibroblasts in mammary epithelial morphogenesis and early tumorigenesis.

The inflammatory environment mediated by a high-fat diet inhibited the development of mammary glands and destroyed the tight junction in pregnant mice

Long-term intake of a high-fat diet seriously affects the health of pregnant women and leads to increased levels of inflammation in the mammary gland. Therefore, to further explore the effect of a high-fat diet on mammary gland development and the tight junction (TJ) during pregnancy, we placed mice into two groups: a high-fat diet group and a control group. We detected the expression of proteins related to fat synthesis in the mammary gland by western blotting. The results showed that a high-fat diet could lead to an increase in fat synthesis in the mammary gland. Then, the inflammatory levels and acinar cell morphology in the mammary gland were detected by ELISA and H&E staining. We also measured the levels of MAPK and NF-κB signal pathway-related proteins by western blotting. The results showed that a high-fat diet activated the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways and promoted the expression of inflammatory factors. Finally, the development of the mammary gland and the integrity of the TJ were determined by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and western blotting. The results showed that a high-fat diet inhibited the development of the mammary gland and the expression of tight junction proteins (TJs). Our study showed that a high-fat diet could promote the expression of inflammatory factors by activating the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways and could reshape the microenvironment through extramammary inflammation. Finally, a high-fat diet inhibited the development of the mammary gland during pregnancy and destroyed the integrity of the TJ.

Tissue mechanics in stem cell fate, development, and cancer

Cells in tissues experience a plethora of forces that regulate their fate and modulate development and homeostasis. Cells sense mechanical cues through localized mechanoreceptors or by influencing cytoskeletal or plasma membrane organization. Cells translate force and modulate their behavior through a process termed mechanotransduction. Cells tune their tension upon exposure to chronic force by engaging cellular machinery that modulates actin tension, which in turn stimulates matrix remodeling and stiffening and alters cell-cell adhesions until cells achieve a state of tensional homeostasis. Loss of tensional homeostasis can be induced through oncogene activity and/or tissue fibrosis, accompanies tumor progression, and is associated with increased cancer risk. The mechanical stresses that develop in tumors can also foster the mesenchymal-like transdifferentiation of cells to induce a stem-like phenotype that contributes to their aggression, metastatic dissemination, and treatment resistance. Thus, strategies that ameliorate tumor mechanics may comprise an effective strategy to prevent aggressive tumor behavior.

BAD regulates mammary gland morphogenesis by 4E-BP1-mediated control of localized translation in mouse and human models

Elucidation of non-canonical protein functions can identify novel tissue homeostasis pathways. Herein, we describe a role for the Bcl-2 family member BAD in postnatal mammary gland morphogenesis. In Bad^3SA knock-in mice, where BAD cannot undergo phosphorylation at 3 key serine residues, pubertal gland development is delayed due to aberrant tubulogenesis of the ductal epithelium. Proteomic and RPPA analyses identify that BAD regulates focal adhesions and the mRNA translation repressor, 4E-BP1. These results suggest that BAD modulates localized translation that drives focal adhesion maturation and cell motility. Consistent with this, cells within Bad^3SA organoids contain unstable protrusions with decreased compartmentalized mRNA translation and focal adhesions, and exhibit reduced cell migration and tubulogenesis. Critically, protrusion stability is rescued by 4E-BP1 depletion. Together our results confirm an unexpected role of BAD in controlling localized translation and cell migration during mammary gland development.

Modern, exogenous exposures associated with altered mammary gland development: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Many women report low milk supply as the reason for premature breastfeeding cessation. Altered mammary gland development may impact a woman's lactation ability.

OBJECTIVE

This review identifies modern exogenous exposures which alter mammary gland development during embryonic life, puberty and pregnancy.

METHODS

A systematic review was undertaken whereby Medline, CINAHL and Embase articles published from January 1, 2005 to November 20, 2020 were searched using the keywords puberty or embry* or fetal or foetal or foetus or fetus or pregnan* or gestation* AND "mammary gland development" or "breast development" or "mammary development" or "mammary gland function" or "mammary function" or "insufficient glandular tissue" or "mammary hypoplasia" or "breast hypoplasia" or "mammary gland hypoplasia" or "tubular breast*" or "tuberous breast*" or "glandular tissue" or "breast composition" or "mammary composition" or "mammary gland composition". After initial screening of 1207 records, 60 full texts were assessed for eligibility; 6 were excluded due to lack of information about exposure or outcome, leaving 54 studies.

RESULTS

The review included results from 52 animal (rats and mice, monkeys, rabbits, sheep, goats pigs and cows) and 2 human studies. Various endocrine disrupting chemicals and an obesogenic diet were found to be associated with altered mammary gland morphology during key development stages.

CONCLUSIONS

To improve lactation outcomes, future studies need to focus on lactation as the endpoint and be conducted in a standardised manner to allow for a more significant contribution to the literature that allows for better comparison across studies.

Nutritional Regulation of Mammary Gland Development and Milk Synthesis in Animal Models and Dairy Species

In mammals, milk is essential for the growth, development, and health. Milk quantity and quality are dependent on mammary development, strongly influenced by nutrition. This review provides an overview of the data on nutritional regulations of mammary development and gene expression involved in milk component synthesis. Mammary development is described related to rodents, rabbits, and pigs, common models in mammary biology. Molecular mechanisms of the nutritional regulation of milk synthesis are reported in ruminants regarding the importance of ruminant milk in human health. The effects of dietary quantitative and qualitative alterations are described considering the dietary composition and in regard to the periods of nutritional susceptibly. During lactation, the effects of lipid supplementation and feed restriction or deprivation are discussed regarding gene expression involved in milk biosynthesis, in ruminants. Moreover, nutrigenomic studies underline the role of the mammary structure and the potential influence of microRNAs. Knowledge from three lactating and three dairy livestock species contribute to understanding the variety of phenotypes reported in this review and highlight (1) the importance of critical physiological stages, such as puberty gestation and early lactation and (2) the relative importance of the various nutrients besides the total energetic value and their interaction.

Niacin stimulates EPH4EV mammary epithelial cell proliferation and mammary gland development in pubertal mice through activation of AKT/mTOR and ERK1/2 signaling pathways

Previous studies have shown the effects of vitamins on the development of the mammary gland. However, the role of niacin in this process has not been reported. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effects of niacin on mammary gland development in pubertal mice and to use a mouse mammary epithelial cell line to study the underlying mechanism. The results showed that niacin could activate the AKT/mTOR and ERK signaling pathways and increase phosphorylation of 4EBP1 to promote the synthesis of cell proliferation markers, leading to the dissociation of the Rb-E2F1 complex in mMECs. In addition, 0.5% niacin promoted mammary duct development, increased the expression of cyclin D1/D3 and PCNA and activated Akt/mTOR and ERK1/2 in the mammary glands of pubertal mice. These results strongly suggest that niacin stimulates mammary gland development in pubertal mice through the Akt/mTOR and ERK1/2 signaling pathways.

Nonhuman primate model in mammary gland biology and neoplasia research

Research on breast cancer pathogenesis, prevention and drug development remains an important field as this disease is still one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide. Nonhuman primates, particularly macaque species, may serve as a highly translational animal model in breast cancer studies due to their similarity with humans in genetics, anatomy, reproductive and endocrine physiology including mammary gland development profile. The use of nonhuman primates in biomedical research, however, requires high ethical standards and an increasing expectation to improve strategies to replace, reduce and refine their use. Here, we discuss some key features of nonhuman primate mammary gland biology relevant to their strengths and limitations as models in studies of breast development and cancer risk.

Mammary Organoids and 3D Cell Cultures: Old Dogs with New Tricks

3D cell culture methods have been an integral part of and an essential tool for mammary gland and breast cancer research for half a century. In fact, mammary gland researchers, who discovered and deciphered the instructive role of extracellular matrix (ECM) in mammary epithelial cell functional differentiation and morphogenesis, were the pioneers of the 3D cell culture techniques, including organoid cultures. The last decade has brought a tremendous increase in the 3D cell culture techniques, including modifications and innovations of the existing techniques, novel biomaterials and matrices, new technological approaches, and increase in 3D culture complexity, accompanied by several redefinitions of the terms "3D cell culture" and "organoid". In this review, we provide an overview of the 3D cell culture and organoid techniques used in mammary gland biology and breast cancer research. We discuss their advantages, shortcomings and current challenges, highlight the recent progress in reconstructing the complex mammary gland microenvironment in vitro and ex vivo, and identify the missing 3D cell cultures, urgently needed to aid our understanding of mammary gland development, function, physiology, and disease, including breast cancer.

Intraductal Injection of Lentivirus Vectors for Stably Introducing Genes into Rat Mammary Epithelial Cells in Vivo

Various retroviral and lentiviral vectors have been used for up-the-teat intraductal injection to deliver markers, oncogenes, and other genes into mammary epithelial cells in mice. These methods along with the large number of genetically engineered mouse lines have greatly helped us learn normal breast development and tumorigenesis. Rats are also valuable models for studying human breast development and cancer. However, genetically engineered rats are still uncommon, and previous reports of intraductal injection of retroviral vectors into rats appear to be inefficient in generating mammary tumors. Here, we report, and describe the method for, stably introducing marker genes and oncogenes into mammary glands in rats using intraductal injection of commonly used lentiviral vectors. This method can infect mammary epithelial cells efficiently, and the infected cells can initiate tumorigenesis, including estrogen receptor-positive and hormone-dependent tumors, which are the most common subtype of human breast cancer but are yet still difficult to model in mice. This technique provides another tool for studying formation, prevention, and treatment of breast cancer, especially estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

Mammary development in the embryo and adult: new insights into the journey of morphogenesis and commitment

The mammary gland is a unique tissue and the defining feature of the class Mammalia. It is a late-evolving epidermal appendage that has the primary function of providing nutrition for the young, although recent studies have highlighted additional benefits of milk including the provision of passive immunity and a microbiome and, in humans, the psychosocial benefits of breastfeeding. In this Review, we outline the various stages of mammary gland development in the mouse, with a particular focus on lineage specification and the new insights that have been gained by the application of recent technological advances in imaging in both real-time and three-dimensions, and in single cell RNA sequencing. These studies have revealed the complexity of subpopulations of cells that contribute to the mammary stem and progenitor cell hierarchy and we suggest a new terminology to distinguish these cells.

Fibroblasts: The grey eminence of mammary gland development

The essential role of mammary gland stroma in the regulation of mammary epithelial development, function, and cancer has long been recognized. Only recently, though, the functions of individual stromal cell populations have begun to become more clarified. Mammary fibroblasts have emerged as master regulators and modulators of epithelial cell behavior through paracrine signaling, extracellular matrix production and remodeling, and through regulation of other stromal cell types. In this review article, we summarize the crucial studies that helped to untangle the roles of fibroblasts in mammary gland development. Furthermore, we discuss the origin, heterogeneity, and plasticity of mammary fibroblasts during mammary development and cancer progression.

Alterations in Progesterone Receptor Isoform Balance in Normal and Neoplastic Breast Cells Modulates the Stem Cell Population

To investigate the role of PR isoforms on the homeostasis of stem cells in the normal and neoplastic mammary gland, we used PRA and PRB transgenic mice and the T47D human breast cancer cell line and its derivatives, T47D YA and YB (manipulated to express only PRA or PRB, respectively). Flow cytometry and mammosphere assays revealed that in murine breast, overexpression of PRB leads to an increase in luminal and basal progenitor/stem cells. Ovariectomy had a negative impact on the luminal compartment and induced an increase in mammosphere-forming capacity in cells derived from WT and PRA mice only. Treatment with ICI 182,780 augmented the mammosphere-forming capacity of cells isolated from WT and PRA mice, whilst those from PRB remained unaltered. T47D YB cells showed an increase in the CD44⁺/CD24^Low/- subpopulation; however, the number of tumorspheres did not vary relative to T47D and YA, even though they were larger, more irregular, and had increased clonogenic capacity. T47D and YA tumorspheres were modulated by estrogen/antiestrogens, whereas YB spheres remained unchanged in size and number. Our results show that alterations in PR isoform balance have an impact on normal and tumorigenic breast progenitor/stem cells and suggest a key role for the B isoform, with implications in response to antiestrogens.

Hydrogen sulfide is a regulator of mammary gland development in prepubescent female mice

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of exogenous H2S on mammary gland development in pubescent mice and to explore the underlying mechanism. The mouse mammary epithelial cell line HC11, along with C57BL/6J mice, were treated with different concentrations of sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS), which is a donor of H2S. The HC11 cell viability, pubescent mammary gland development, and the involvement of proliferative proteins and pathways were assessed by CCK‑8 assay, EdU assay, whole mount staining, H&E staining, western blotting and reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR. Both in vitro and in vivo, a low concentration of NaHS (100 µM in vitro; 9 mg/kg in vivo) significantly promoted the viability of HC11 cells and the development of mammary glands by increasing the expression of the proliferative markers cyclin D1/3 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen. However, a high concentration of NaHS (1,000 µM in vitro; 18 mg/kg in vivo) inhibited HC11 cell viability, mammary gland development and the expression levels of proteins involved in proliferation. Subsequent experiments revealed that NaHS regulated the phosphatidylinositol 3‑kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)‑mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway during this process. In vivo, intraperitoneal injection of low concentration NaHS (9 mg/kg) activated the PI3K/Akt‑mTOR pathway in mammary glands of pubescent mice, increased the secretion of insulin‑like growth factor 1 (IGF‑1) and estradiol (E2), and then stimulated mammary gland ductal development. Whereas a high concentration of NaHS (18 mg/kg) elicited the opposite effects to those of low‑dose NaHS. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that exogenous H2S supplied by NaHS may exert bidirectional effects on mammary gland ductal development; promoting ductal development at a low concentration and inhibiting it at a high concentration. The effects of H2S may occur via the intracellular PI3K/Akt‑mTOR signaling pathway, or by regulation of the secretion of IGF‑1 and E2.

Two Sides of the Same Coin: The Role of Developmental pathways and pluripotency factors in normal mammary stem cells and breast cancer metastasis

Breast cancer initiation and progression are often observed as the result of dysregulation of normal developmental processes and pathways. Studies focused on normal mammary stem/progenitor cell activity have led to an understanding of how breast cancer cells acquire stemness-associated properties including tumor initiation, survival and multi-lineage differentiation into heterogeneous tumors that become difficult to target therapeutically. Importantly, more recent investigations have provided valuable insight into how key developmental regulators can impact multiple phases of metastasis, where they are repurposed to not only promote metastatic phenotypes such as migration, invasion and EMT at the primary site, but also to regulate the survival, initiation and maintenance of metastatic lesions at secondary organs. Herein, we discuss findings that have led to a better understanding of how embryonic and pluripotency factors contribute not only to normal mammary development, but also to metastatic progression. We further examine the therapeutic potential of targeting these developmental pathways, and discuss how a better understanding of compensatory mechanisms, crosstalk between pathways, and novel experimental models could provide critical insight into how we might exploit embryonic and pluripotency regulators to inhibit tumor progression and metastasis.

Retrotransposons spread potential cis-regulatory elements during mammary gland evolution

Acquisition of cis-elements is a major driving force for rewiring a gene regulatory network. Several kinds of transposable elements (TEs), mostly retrotransposons that propagate via a copy-and-paste mechanism, are known to possess transcription factor binding motifs and have provided source sequences for enhancers/promoters. However, it remains largely unknown whether retrotransposons have spread the binding sites of master regulators of morphogenesis and accelerated cis-regulatory expansion involved in common mammalian morphological features during evolution. Here, I demonstrate that thousands of binding sites for estrogen receptor α (ERα) and three related pioneer factors (FoxA1, GATA3 and AP2γ) that are essential regulators of mammary gland development arose from a spreading of the binding motifs by retrotransposons. The TE-derived functional elements serve primarily as distal enhancers and are enriched around genes associated with mammary gland morphogenesis. The source TEs occurred via a two-phased expansion consisting of mainly L2/MIR in a eutherian ancestor and endogenous retrovirus 1 (ERV1) in simian primates and murines. Thus the build-up of potential sources for cis-elements by retrotransposons followed by their frequent utilization by the host (co-option/exaptation) may have a general accelerating effect on both establishing and diversifying a gene regulatory network, leading to morphological innovation.

Cracking the Cell Death Code

Cell death is an invariant feature throughout our life span, starting with extensive scheduled cell death during morphogenesis and continuing with death under homeostasis in adult tissues. Additionally, cells become victims of accidental, unscheduled death following injury and infection. Cell death in each of these occasions triggers specific and specialized responses in the living cells that surround them or are attracted to the dying/dead cells. These responses sculpt tissues during morphogenesis, replenish lost cells in homeostasis to maintain tissue/system function, and repair damaged tissues after injury. Wherein lies the information that sets in motion the cascade of effector responses culminating in remodeling, renewal, or repair? Here, we attempt to provide a framework for thinking about cell death in terms of the specific effector responses that accompanies various modalities of cell death. We also propose an integrated threefold "cell death code" consisting of information intrinsic to the dying/dead cell, the surroundings of the dying cell, and the identity of the responder.

R-spondin-mediated WNT signaling potentiation in mammary and breast cancer development

The mammary gland is a secretory organ, which develops as a network of growing epithelial ducts composed of luminal and basal cells that invade the surrounding adipose tissue through a series of developmental cycles. Mammary stem cells (MaSCs) maintain an accurate tissue homeostasis, and their proliferation and cell fate determination are regulated by multiple hormones and local factors. The WNT pathway plays a critical role in controlling the enormous tissue expansion and remodeling during mammary gland development through the maintenance and differentiation of MaSCs, and its deregulation has been implicated in breast cancer (BC) initiation and progression. The R-spondins (RSPOs) are four secreted proteins that strongly enhance target cell sensitivity to WNT ligands. Moreover, leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptors (LGRs) 4-6 are considered obligate high-affinity receptors for RSPOs and have been described as stem cell markers. Importantly, elevated RSPO expression has been recently identified in several tumor types from patients, including BC, and it has been reported that they play a significant role in mammary tumor progression in experimental models. In this review, exploring our present knowledge, we summarize the role of the RSPO-LGR axis as a WNT-enhancing signaling cascade in the MaSC compartment and during the normal and neoplastic mammary gland development. In addition, we include an updated expression profile of the RSPOs and their action mediators at the cell membrane, the LGRs, and the ubiquitin-ligases ZNRF3/RNF43, in different BC subtypes. Finally and based on these data, we discuss the significance of tumor-associated alterations of these proteins and their potential use as molecular targets for detection and treatment of BC.

Modeling chemical effects on breast cancer: the importance of the microenvironment in vitro

Accumulating evidence suggests that our ability to predict chemical effects on breast cancer is limited by a lack of physiologically relevant in vitro models; the typical in vitro breast cancer model consists of the cancer cell and excludes the mammary microenvironment. As the effects of the microenvironment on cancer cell behavior becomes more understood, researchers have called for the integration of the microenvironment into in vitro chemical testing systems. However, given the complexity of the microenvironment and the variety of platforms to choose from, identifying the essential parameters to include in a chemical testing platform is challenging. This review discusses the need for more complex in vitro breast cancer models and outlines different approaches used to model breast cancer in vitro. We provide examples of the microenvironment modulating breast cancer cell responses to chemicals and discuss strategies to help pinpoint what components should be included in a model.

Mifepristone Treatment in Pregnant Murine Model Induced Mammary Gland Dysplasia and Postpartum Hypogalactia

Mammary gland dysplasia and postpartum hypogalactia often occur in humans and in the livestock breeding industry. However, their underlying mechanisms are not clear yet. Mifepristone, which has a high affinity for progesterone (P4) and glucocorticoid receptors, was exploited here to induce the disorders of mammary gland development and lactation. Four strategies were devised for treating pregnant mice with mifepristone. In the first strategy, mice were administered 1.20 mg mifepristone/kg body weight (BW) on pregnancy day 4 (Pd4). In the second strategy, mifepristone was administered to mice twice, with 1.20 mg/kg BW on Pd4 and 0.40 mg/kg BW on Pd8. In the third strategy, mice were treated with a single dose of 0.40 mg mifepristone/kg BW on Pd8. In the fourth strategy, mice were administered 0.40 mg mifepristone/kg BW on Pd8 and 0.20 mg mifepristone/kg BW on Pd12. The results suggested that mifepristone administration at the dose of 1.20 mg/kg BW on Pd4 caused significant reduction in milk production on lactation day 1 (Ld1), Ld2, and Ld3, as assessed using a weigh-suckle-weigh assay. Mammary β-casein expression, milk yields, litter growth rates, gland structure, and serum concentrations of 17-β estrogen (E2), P4, prolactin (PRL), growth hormone (GH), corticosterone (CORT) and oxytocin (OT) as well as the receptors of these hormones were determined during pregnancy or lactation after performing the first (Pd4) strategy. The results demonstrated that mifepristone administration during early pregnancy decreased β-casein expression, milk yields and litter growth rates, induced fewer alveoli, enlarged alveolar lumina, and altered the levels of E2, P4, PRL, GH, CORT, and OT as well as the mRNA expression of these hormonal receptors during pregnancy or early lactation. The present study on pregnant mice treated with mifepristone offers an innovative murine model to study the mechanism underlying mammary gland dysplasia and postpartum hypogalactia.

Aberrant WNT/CTNNB1 Signaling as a Therapeutic Target in Human Breast Cancer: Weighing the Evidence

WNT signaling is crucial for tissue morphogenesis during development in all multicellular animals. After birth, WNT/CTNNB1 responsive stem cells are responsible for tissue homeostasis in various organs and hyperactive WNT/CTNNB1 signaling is observed in many different human cancers. The first link between WNT signaling and breast cancer was established almost 40 years ago, when Wnt1 was identified as a proto-oncogene capable of driving mammary tumor formation in mice. Since that discovery, there has been a dedicated search for aberrant WNT signaling in human breast cancer. However, much debate and controversy persist regarding the importance of WNT signaling for the initiation, progression or maintenance of different breast cancer subtypes. As the first drugs designed to block functional WNT signaling have entered clinical trials, many questions about the role of aberrant WNT signaling in human breast cancer remain. Here, we discuss three major research gaps in this area. First, we still lack a basic understanding of the function of WNT signaling in normal human breast development and physiology. Second, the overall extent and precise effect of (epi)genetic changes affecting the WNT pathway in different breast cancer subtypes are still unknown. Which underlying molecular and cell biological mechanisms are disrupted as a result also awaits further scrutiny. Third, we survey the current status of targeted therapeutics that are aimed at interfering with the WNT pathway in breast cancer patients and highlight the importance and complexity of selecting the subset of patients that may benefit from treatment.

Role of Vitamin A in Mammary Gland Development and Lactation

Vitamin A (all-trans-retinol), its active derivatives retinal and retinoic acid, and their synthetic analogues constitute the group of retinoids. It is obtained from diet either as preformed vitamin A or as carotenoids. Retinal plays a biological role in vision, but most of the effects of vitamin A are exerted by retinoic acid, which binds to nuclear receptors and regulates gene transcription. Vitamin A deficiency is an important nutritional problem, particularly in the developing world. Retinol and carotenoids from diet during pregnancy and lactation influence their concentration in breast milk, which is important in the long term, not only for the offspring, but also for maternal health. In this study, we review the role of vitamin A in mammary gland metabolism, where retinoid signaling is required not only for morphogenesis and development of the gland and for adequate milk production, but also during the weaning process, when epithelial cell death is coupled with tissue remodeling.

Reproductive tract biology: Of mice and men

The study of male and female reproductive tract development requires expertise in two separate disciplines, developmental biology and endocrinology. For ease of experimentation and economy, the mouse has been used extensively as a model for human development and pathogenesis, and for the most part similarities in developmental processes and hormone action provide ample justification for the relevance of mouse models for human reproductive tract development. Indeed, there are many examples describing the phenotype of human genetic disorders that have a reasonably comparable phenotype in mice, attesting to the congruence between mouse and human development. However, anatomic, developmental and endocrinologic differences exist between mice and humans that (1) must be appreciated and (2) considered with caution when extrapolating information between all animal models and humans. It is critical that the investigator be aware of both the similarities and differences in organogenesis and hormone action within male and female reproductive tracts so as to focus on those features of mouse models with clear relevance to human development/pathology. This review, written by a team with extensive expertise in the anatomy, developmental biology and endocrinology of both mouse and human urogenital tracts, focusses upon the significant human/mouse differences, and when appropriate voices a cautionary note regarding extrapolation of mouse models for understanding development of human male and female reproductive tracts.

chi-miR-143-3p Promotes Apoptosis of Mammary Gland Epithelial Cells from Dairy Goats by Targeting Ndfip1

The mammary gland is an important organ for lactation in dairy goats. Mammary gland development and lactation functions are primarily regulated by natural hormones and certain crucial regulatory factors. Nedd4 family-interacting protein 1 (Ndfip1) can specifically bind to neural precursor cell-expressed, developmentally downregulated protein 4 (Nedd4) family members to participate in ubiquitination, which in turn regulates a range of biological processes in the body. However, the effects of Ndfip1 expression regulation at the post-transcriptional level on the development of mammary gland cells have not been previously reported. To study the regulation of Ndfip1 at post-transcriptional level, the overexpression and interference vectors of Ndfip1 were constructed, and co-transfected into the primary mammary gland epithelial cells cultured in vitro with miR-143 mimics and inhibitor. Dual luciferase reporter gene system, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, cholecystokinin octapeptide assays, and flow cytometry were used to identify their regulation and function. As a result, Ndfip1 was targeted and regulated by miR-143, which influences the development of mammary gland epithelial cells in dairy goats cultured in vitro. This study will lay an experimental foundation for further understanding the functions of Ndfip1 and miR-143.

Modelling the MYC-driven normal-to-tumour switch in breast cancer

The potent MYC oncoprotein is deregulated in many human cancers, including breast carcinoma, and is associated with aggressive disease. To understand the mechanisms and vulnerabilities of MYC-driven breast cancer, we have generated an in vivo model that mimics human disease in response to MYC deregulation. MCF10A cells ectopically expressing a common breast cancer mutation in the phosphoinositide 3 kinase pathway (PIK3CA^H1047R) led to the development of organised acinar structures in mice. Expressing both PIK3CA^H1047R and deregulated MYC led to the development of invasive ductal carcinoma. Therefore, the deregulation of MYC expression in this setting creates a MYC-dependent normal-to-tumour switch that can be measured in vivo. These MYC-driven tumours exhibit classic hallmarks of human breast cancer at both the pathological and molecular level. Moreover, tumour growth is dependent upon sustained deregulated MYC expression, further demonstrating addiction to this potent oncogene and regulator of gene transcription. We therefore provide a MYC-dependent model of breast cancer, which can be used to assay invivo tumour signalling pathways, proliferation and transformation from normal breast acini to invasive breast carcinoma. We anticipate that this novel MYC-driven transformation model will be a useful research tool to better understand the oncogenic function of MYC and for the identification of therapeutic vulnerabilities.

Summary: We present a MYC-driven transformation model of breast cancer that recapitulates the disease in vivo and which can be used to identify MYC-dependent cancer vulnerabilities.

Rodent Models Assessing Mammary Tumor Prevention by Soy or Soy Isoflavones

While epidemiological studies performed in Asian countries generally show that high levels of dietary soy are associated with reduced breast cancer risk, studies in Western countries have typically failed to show this correlation. In an attempt to model the preventative actions of soy on mammary tumor development, rodent models have been employed. Thirty-four studies were identified that evaluated the impact of soy products or purified soy isoflavones on mammary tumor initiation (studies evaluating established mammary tumors or mammary tumor cell lines were not included) and these studies were separated into mammary tumors induced by chemical carcinogens or transgenic expression of oncogenes based on the timing of soy administration. Regardless of when soy-based diets or purified isoflavones were administered, no consistent protective effects were observed in either carcinogen-induced or oncogene-induced mammary tumors. While some studies demonstrated that soy or purified isoflavones could reduce mammary tumor incidence, other studies showed either no effect or tumor promoting effects of soy products or isoflavones. Most importantly, only five studies found a decrease in mammary tumor incidence and six studies observed a decrease in tumor multiplicity, two relevant measures of the tumor preventative effects of soy or isoflavones. The variable outcomes of the studies examined were not completely surprising given that few studies employed the same experimental design. Future studies should be carefully designed to more accurately emulate soy consumption observed in Asian cultures including lifetime exposure to less refined soy products and potentially the incorporation of multigenerational feeding studies.

p63 at the Crossroads between Stemness and Metastasis in Breast Cancer

After lung cancer, breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cause of cancer death among women, worldwide. Although advances in screening approaches and targeted therapeutic agents have decreased BC incidence and mortality, over the past five years, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains the breast cancer subtype that displays the worst prognosis, mainly due to the lack of clinically actionable targets. Genetic and molecular profiling has unveiled the high intrinsic heterogeneity of TNBC, with the basal-like molecular subtypes representing the most diffuse TNBC subtypes, characterized by the expression of basal epithelial markers, such as the transcription factor p63. In this review, we will provide a broad picture on the physiological role of p63, in maintaining the basal epithelial identity, as well as its involvement in breast cancer progression, emphasizing its relevance in tumor cell invasion and stemness.

The Activin Social Network: Activin, Inhibin, and Follistatin in Breast Development and Cancer

Activins and inhibins are closely related protein heterodimers with a similar tissue distribution; however, these two complexes have opposing functions in development and disease. Both are secreted cytokine hormones, with activin the primary inducer of downstream signaling cascades and inhibin acting as a rheostat that exquisitely governs activin function. Adding to the complexity of activin signaling, follistatin, a highly glycosylated monomeric protein, binds activin with high affinity and restrains downstream pathway activation but through a mechanism distinct from that of inhibin. These three proteins were first identified as key ovarian hormones in the pituitary-gonadal axis that direct the synthesis and secretion of FSH from the pituitary, hence controlling folliculogenesis. Research during the past 30 years has expanded the roles of these proteins, first by discovering the ubiquitous expression of the trio and then by implicating them in a wide array of biological functions. In concert, these three hormones govern tissue development, homeostasis, and disease in multiple organ systems through diverse autocrine and paracrine mechanisms. In the present study, we have reviewed the actions of activin and its biological inhibitors, inhibin, and follistatin, in mammary gland morphogenesis and cancer.

The biology of the extracorporeal vasculature of Botryllus schlosseri

The extracorporeal vasculature of the colonial ascidian Botryllus schlosseri plays a key role in several biological processes: transporting blood, angiogenesis, regeneration, self-nonself recognition, and parabiosis. The vasculature also interconnects all individuals in a colony and is composed of a single layer of ectodermally-derived cells. These cells form a tube with the basal lamina facing the lumen, and the apical side facing an extracellular matrix that consists of cellulose and other proteins, known as the tunic. Vascular tissue is transparent and can cover several square centimeters, which is much larger than any single individual within the colony. It forms a network that ramifies and expands to the perimeter of each colony and terminates into oval-shaped protrusions known as ampullae. Botryllus individuals replace themselves through a weekly budding cycle, and vasculature is added to ensure the interconnection of each new individual, thus there is continuous angiogenesis occurring naturally. The vascular tissue itself is highly regenerative; surgical removal of the ampullae and peripheral vasculature triggers regrowth within 24-48 h, which includes forming new ampullae. When two individuals, whether in the wild or in the lab, come into close contact and their ampullae touch, they can either undergo parabiosis through anastomosing vessels, or reject vascular fusion. The vasculature is easily manipulated by direct means such as microinjections, microsurgeries, and pharmacological reagents. Its transparent nature allows for in vivo analysis by bright field and fluorescence microscopy. Here we review the techniques and approaches developed to study the different biological processes that involve the extracorporeal vasculature.

Cdh1 and Pik3ca Mutations Cooperate to Induce Immune-Related Invasive Lobular Carcinoma of the Breast

CDH1 and PIK3CA are the two most frequently mutated genes in invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) of the breast. Transcription profiling has identified molecular subtypes for ILC, one of which, immune-related (IR), is associated with gene expression linked to lymphocyte and macrophage infiltration. Here, we report that deletion of Cdh1, together with activation of Pik3ca in mammary epithelium of genetically modified mice, leads to formation of IR-ILC-like tumors with immune cell infiltration, as well as gene expression linked to T-regulatory (Treg) cell signaling and activation of targetable immune checkpoint pathways. Interestingly, these tumors show enhanced Rac1- and Yap-dependent transcription and signaling, as well as sensitivity to PI3K, Rac1, and Yap inhibitors in culture. Finally, high-dimensional immunophenotyping in control mouse mammary gland and IR-ILC tumors by mass cytometry shows dramatic alterations in myeloid and lymphoid populations associated with immune suppression and exhaustion, highlighting the potential for therapeutic intervention via immune checkpoint regulators.

Dissecting the mammary gland one cell at a time

Dissecting cellular differentiation hierarchies in the mammary gland is a prerequisite for understanding both normal development and malignant transformation during tumorigenesis and tumor cell-of-origin. To achieve these goals, several recent papers utilized single cell RNA-seq and lineage tracing to improve our understanding of the composition of the mammary epithelium at different developmental stages.