Mammary ridge

Mammary ridge also known as the milk line or mammary line is a primitive structure in the embryo that eventually gives rise to the mammary glands. It is a thickened band of ectoderm from which the mammary glands develop. The mammary ridge extends from the axilla (armpit) to the groin area on both sides of the body.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "mammary" is derived from the Latin word "mamma" which means "breast". The term "ridge" refers to a long, narrow elevated section or a raised strip.

Development[edit | edit source]

The mammary ridge appears in the sixth week of embryonic development. It starts as a thickening of the ectoderm, the outermost layer of the embryo. This thickening extends from the axilla to the groin on both sides of the body. The ridge then develops into a series of buds, which eventually form the mammary glands.

Related Terms[edit | edit source]

Ectoderm: The outermost layer of cells or tissue of an embryo in early development, or the parts derived from this, which include the epidermis, nerve tissue, and nephridia.
Mammary gland: The milk-producing gland in women and other female mammals, typically paired and each divided into lobes; they are modified sweat glands and are the characteristic of mammals which gave the group its name.
Axilla: The armpit or the cavity beneath the junction of the arm and shoulder.
Groin: The area of the body where the abdomen ends and the legs begin.

References[edit | edit source]

Mammary ridge Resources
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