Investigating the localised movements of the primitive mammary epithelial cells within the nascent mammary primordium.

Our long-term goal is to derive a fundamental understanding of how precursors to mammary cells are selected to undergo this specific differentiation pathway and how the initial mammary phenotype is conferred. The initial stages of mammary morphogenesis are likely coupled to local migration of precursor cells. We are investigating the localised movements of the primitive mammary epithelial cells within the nascent mammary primordium and the migratory properties and routes of the precursor mammary cells.

Both mammary cell fate determination and migration have profound implications for breast cancer biology as well as understanding the development of the gland. The combined results from these various projects are expected to define specific functional roles for Nrg3 in mammary gland morphogenesis.