UCSF

The mammary gland is a highly dynamic tissue that undergoes repeated cycles of growth and involution during pregnancy and menstruation. It is also the site from which breast cancers emerge. Organoids provide an in vitro model that preserves several of the cellular, structural, and microenvironmental features that dictate mammary gland function in vivo and have greatly advanced our understanding of glandular biology. Their tractability for genetic manipulation, live imaging, and high throughput screening have facilitated investigation into the mechanisms of glandular morphogenesis, structural maintenance, tumor progression, and invasion. Opportunities remain to enhance cellular and structural complexity of mammary organoid models, including incorporating additional cell types and hormone signaling.