Abstract
The effect of xenobiotics on milk secretion and composition has received limited systematic study. This review highlights current understanding of the mechanisms and regulation of milk secretion and indicates potential sites of xenobiotic perturbation. Major emphasis includes review of the cellular architecture and biochemical mechanisms of the differentiated mammary alveolar cell in relation to secretion of lipid, lactose, milk proteins, electrolytes, trace elements, host defense systems, vitamins, hormones, growth factors, and antioxidant enzyme systems. The regulation of milk secretion by oxytocin, prolactin, steroid hormones, and thyroxine is reviewed in the context of potential or known modulation by xenobiotics. Lastly, the impact of xenobiotic-induced changes in nutrient delivery to the mammary gland from altered mammary blood flow or malnutrition are considered. This review also summarizes the limited current knowledge of the impact of selected xenobiotics of environmental concern on milk secretion and composition. Attention is directed to alcohol, polychlorinated biphenyls, phthalate plasticizers, pharmacologic agents, tumor promotors, insecticides, heavy metals, and vitamins. The critical need for additional research is addressed, with proposals for epidemiologic studies in the human population and further development of animal and tissue culture models for mechanistic investigations.
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