Fibroblast growth factor signalling in mouse mammary gland development

Fibroblast growth factors (Fgfs) and their receptors are important intercel lular signalling molecules involved in many aspects of animal development. The aberrant expression of the Fgfs or the inappropriate activation of thei r cell surface receptors have been implicated in tumorigenesis. Here, we de scribe the evidence that as well as playing a critical role in the formatio n of the mammary primordia during embryogenesis, signalling by Fgfs is nece ssary for optimal lobuloalveolar development of the mouse mammary gland dur ing pregnancy.