In humans, mammary gland is divided into __________ lobes.
15 – 20
Understanding the Mammary Gland Structure
The human mammary gland is a complex structure primarily involved in lactation, the production of milk to nourish offspring. Understanding its anatomy is important in reproductive biology.
The mammary gland is composed of glandular tissue, connective tissue, and adipose (fat) tissue. The glandular tissue is organized into distinct units called lobes. These lobes are separated by connective tissue and fat.
Mammary Gland Lobes Explained
Each mammary gland in humans is divided into several lobes. Within each lobe are smaller structures called lobules, which contain the alveoli where milk is produced. Ducts carry the milk from the alveoli through the lobules and lobes towards the nipple.
The number of lobes can vary slightly from person to person, but there is a typical range.
Number of Lobes in the Mammary Gland
Based on anatomical studies, the human mammary gland is typically described as being divided into a specific range of lobes. Let's look at the options provided regarding the number of lobes:
- 10 – 12 lobes
- 25 – 30 lobes
- 30 – 35 lobes
- 15 – 20 lobes
Anatomy textbooks and medical resources commonly state that the human mammary gland is divided into approximately 15 to 20 lobes.
Therefore, the range that accurately represents the number of lobes in the human mammary gland is 15 – 20.
Revision Table: Key Mammary Gland Anatomy
| Structure | Description | Typical Number (per gland) |
|---|---|---|
| Lobes | Main divisions of glandular tissue containing lobules and ducts. | 15 – 20 |
| Lobules | Smaller units within lobes containing alveoli. | Numerous (within each lobe) |
| Alveoli | Milk-producing sacs within lobules. | Numerous (within each lobule) |
| Lactiferous Ducts | Carry milk from alveoli towards the nipple. | Corresponding to the number of lobes |
Additional Information: Mammary Gland Function
The primary function of the mammary gland is lactation, which is regulated by hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin stimulates milk production in the alveoli, while oxytocin causes the contraction of myoepithelial cells surrounding the alveoli and ducts, leading to milk ejection (let-down reflex).
Development of the mammary glands occurs in stages throughout a person's life, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, and lactation.
Understanding the structure, including the division into lobes, is fundamental to comprehending the process of milk production and flow.
Similar Questions
Which of the following does not constitute an accessory duct of the female reproductive system?
The female external genitalia include:
(A) Mons pubis
(B) Hymen
(C) Mammary ducts
(D) Clitoris
(E) Cervix
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Select the organ of the female reproductive system where the sperm is not transported at the time of coitus:
Which of the following does not take place before ovulation in human females?
Match List-I with List-II:
List-I (Phase of menstrual cycle) List-II (Days of menstrual cycle) (A) Proliferative phase (I) 14th day (B) Menstrual phase (II) 15th–28th/29th days (C) Secretory phase (III) 1st–5th days (D) Ovulatory phase (IV) 5th–13th days Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Sex in human embryo is determined by:
Arrange the following stages of oogenesis in order of their occurrence:
(A) Ovum
(B) Oogonia
(C) Primary oocyte
(D) Secondary oocyte
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Important Questions from Human Reproduction
Arrange the following events chronologically as they occur during embryonic development:
- (A) Appearance of heart sounds
- (B) Development of limbs and digits
- (C) Formation of three primary germ layers
- (D) Separation of eyelids
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Which of the following hormone is generally not produced by the placenta?
In plants, continued self-pollination results in
Arrange the stages of oogenesis in order of their occurrence:
A. Formation of ovum & second polar body
B. Meiosis II begins but is held at Metaphase II
C. Meiosis I started but is held at Prophase I
D. Formation of primary oocyte from oogonia
E. Completion of Meiosis-I and formation of secondary oocyte and first polar body
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Signals of parturition originate from which of the following?
Human Placental Lactogen
Parturition hormone
Fully developed foetus
Placenta
