Microenvironmental control of cell fate decisions in mammary gland development and cancer

Cell fate decisions are critical for adequate tissue development, maintenance and regeneration. In the mammary gland, epithelial cell fates are tightly controlled by the microenvironment. Here, we review how cell fate decisions are regulated by components of the microenvironment during mammary gland development and how pathological changes in the microenvironment can alter cell fates, leading to malignancy. Specifically, we describe the current understanding of how mammary cell fate is controlled and directed by three elements: the extracellular matrix, the immune microenvironment, and hormones-and how these elements can converge to create microenvironments that promote a fourth element: DNA damage.

Automated summary

Cell fate decisions in the mammary gland are tightly controlled by the microenvironment, specifically by the extracellular matrix, immune microenvironment, and hormones. Pathological changes in the microenvironment can alter cell fates, leading to malignancy. This review highlights how these elements converge to promote DNA damage and affect mammary cell fate.