ETH Researchers Investigate the Process of Milk Production

(CONNECT) A group of ETH researchers led by Marcy Zenobi-Wong, Professor of Tissue Engineering and Biofabrication, is investigating the process of breast milk production. Using cells from human breast milk and material from the udder tissue of cows, they have developed tiny replicas of milk-producing breast tissue with the help of volumetric bioprinting, ETH Zurich reported in a press release. In volumetric bioprinting, a liquid is cured in selected areas using laser light.

In laboratory tests, the tissue has not yet produced breast milk, but has produced some typical milk components. "We have identified the first components, but milk consists of hundreds of components, including complex sugars, proteins, fats, immune cells and living microorganisms," Zenobi-Wong explains in the press release. "Next, we want to increase milk production in the model - this can be controlled using 3D printing."

The model developed by the researchers allows milk-forming cells to be observed and specifically influenced under controlled conditions for the first time. "I now know many women who have had difficulties breastfeeding," Amelia Hasenauer, PhD student at Zenobi-Wong and lead author of the study, is quoted as saying in the press release. "Our model could one day help to find answers." With their work, the two researchers also want to contribute to improving the visibility of aspects of female biology. ce/hs