Abstract 1730 PTHrP Negatively Effects Ethanol-induced Proliferation and Migration of Mammary Epithelial Cells

Alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Several mechanisms involving alcohol-induced breast cancer have been suggested including increased estrogen induced cell proliferation and migration. In the present study we were interested in determining the effect of alcohol on the pubertal development of the mammary gland, a period of intense estrogen-induced growth. Three-week old WT mice fed a liquid diet consisting of 0, 10 and 20% ethanol showed an increase in epithelial density and proliferation at the terminal end bud (TEB), as shown by whole mount analysis and BrdU incorporation.