part of part of fibroblast fibroblast of mammary gland 2011-02-28T05:18:38Z Fibroblasts of the mammary gland, often referred to as mammary fibroblasts, are a specialized type of cell located within the connective tissue of the mammary glands. These cells are integral to the structure and composition of the gland and are one of its primary cell types, specializing in the production of the extracellular matrix and collagen. They are involved in tissue remodeling, shaping the structure and maintaining the integrity of the mammary tissue by providing necessary rigidity and elasticity through their production of structural proteins. These cells also play a crucial role in mammary gland development and lactation. During mammary gland development, fibroblasts play a significant role in the induction of branching morphogenesis, which is vital for establishing proper ductal architecture. They also support the immune response within the mammary gland by producing and secreting cytokines and growth factors. Importantly, mammary fibroblasts are important in the context of breast cancer. Changes in the characteristics and behavior of these fibroblasts, often spurred by interactions with tumor cells, can promote cancer progression and metastasis. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_0002555 A fibroblast that is part of the mammary gland. mammary gland