Question

The cuboidal/columnar epithelial cells of alveoli in the mammary gland perform which of the following functions?

• A. It synthesizes and secretes steroid hormones
• B. It releases proteins by exocytosis and lipid by an apocrine secretion mechanism
• C. It contracts in response to oxytocin from the posterior pituitary gland
• D. Secretes prolactin

Answer 1

The correct option is B It releases proteins by exocytosis and lipid by an apocrine secretion mechanism

• A mammary alveolus is a small cavity found in the mammary gland. Mammary alveoli are the site of milk production and storage in the mammary gland.
• Mammary alveoli cluster into groups called lobules, and each breast may contain 15–20 of these lobules.
• The secretory component of mammary glands has two parts. The first part is composed of columnar cells that form the alveolar epithelium. The second part is composed of columnar cells forming the intralobular ducts.
• The cells typically release proteins by exocytosis and lipid by an apocrine secretion mechanism. Hence, The cuboidal/columnar epithelial cells of alveoli in the mammary gland releases proteins by exocytosis and lipid by an apocrine secretion mechanism.

So, the correct answer is 'The cuboidal/columnar epithelial cells of alveoli in the mammary gland'.