MILK GLAND Meaning and
Definition
-
A milk gland refers to a specialized glandular structure found in mammals, predominantly females, that produces and secretes milk for the nourishment of their offspring. It is an essential component of the mammary system, which plays a crucial role in the reproductive and nurturing functions of mammals.
Within the milk gland, various components work harmoniously to facilitate the production and release of milk. These components include alveoli, lobules, lactiferous ducts, and nipple openings. Alveoli are the tiny sac-like structures responsible for manufacturing the milk, while lobules form clusters of alveoli. The lactiferous ducts transport the synthesized milk from the alveoli to the nipple openings, through which it is expelled for consumption by the young.
The milk gland structure and its functionalities are under hormonal regulation, primarily by the hormones estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin. Estrogen and progesterone support the development and growth of the milk gland during pregnancy, preparing it for milk production after childbirth. Prolactin, stimulated by the suckling or stimulation of the nipple, triggers the synthesis and secretion of milk by the gland.
The presence of milk glands distinguishes mammals from other animal groups and is an evolutionary adaptation to sustain and nurture their young by providing them with essential nutrients, antibodies, and immune defenses. The complex and intricate system of milk glands enables lactation, a fundamental characteristic of mammals and a vital aspect of their reproductive and nurturing biology.
Common Misspellings for MILK GLAND
- nilk gland
- kilk gland
- jilk gland
- mulk gland
- mjlk gland
- mklk gland
- molk gland
- m9lk gland
- m8lk gland
- mikk gland
- mipk gland
- miok gland
- milj gland
- milm gland
- mill gland
- milo gland
- mili gland
- milk fland
- milk vland
- milk bland
Etymology of MILK GLAND
The word "milk" can be traced back to the Old English word "meoluc" or "milc", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "meluks" or "meluks", meaning milk. This ultimately comes from the Proto-Indo-European root "*h₂melǵ-" which also meant milk.
The word "gland" comes from the Latin word "glandula", which translates to "gland" or "acorn". It is believed that "glandula" originates from the Proto-Indo-European root "*gʷʰlend-", which meant lobe or acorn.
When combined, the term "milk gland" refers to a gland that secretes milk. In biology, it typically refers to mammary glands, the glands responsible for milk production in mammals.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
