Branching isn’t just for trees. This biological process occurs in animal development, enabling organs to perform complex functions. Branch-like structures form in the lungs, kidneys, and breasts, among other places. Importantly, only in female mammary glands does most branching occur years after birth. It happens during puberty and again during pregnancy as milk ducts branch out in preparation for breastfeeding. Disturbances here have been linked to breast cancer. However, studying branching can be difficult and time-consuming.
This article was originally published on MedicalXpress.com
