Читать книгу The SAGE Encyclopedia of Stem Cell Research - Группа авторов - Страница 231

Human breast development is a progressive process that is initiated during embryonic life. The glandular maturation occurs at puberty, while full breast differentiation is attained only with subsequent pregnancy and lactation. Breast tissue is composed of both epithelial and stromal elements. The epithelial components are branching ducts that connect the structural and functional units of the breast (the lobules) to the nipple. The stroma, which comprises the majority of the breast volume in the nonlactating state, is composed of adipose and fibrous connective tissue. The principal blood supply of the breast is derived from the internal mammary artery. Approximately one-third of the blood supply (mainly to the upper outer quadrant) is provided by the lateral thoracic arteries. Lymph flow from the deep subcutaneous and intramammary vessels moves centrifugally toward the axillary lymph nodes.