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Question #46194
The Question
A female patient exhibits normal structural development of mammary glands but fails to initiate milk secretion postpartum, despite having normal circulating levels of prolactin and oxytocin. Clinical evaluation reveals abnormally high levels of progesterone due to a retained placental fragment. Which of the following best explains the physiological mechanism behind her inability to secrete milk?
Options
- A.
High progesterone exerts an inhibitory effect on the action of prolactin at the mammary alveolar cells.
- B.
High progesterone suppresses the release of oxytocin from the neurohypophysis, preventing the milk let-down reflex.
- C.
High progesterone exerts strong negative feedback on the anterior pituitary, suppressing prolactin synthesis.
- D.
High progesterone prevents the structural hypertrophy and differentiation of the mammary lobulo-alveolar system.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Mammalia Mammary Glands|Progesterone/Estrogen Feedback|Prolactin
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often misunderstand the dual role of Progesterone during pregnancy.
While it is essential for the structural maturation of the mammary alveoli, it acts as a functional antagonist to Prolactin at the receptor level to prevent premature milk secretion.
The trap also relies on Functional Confusion between milk synthesis (Prolactin) and milk ejection (Oxytocin).
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Animal Kingdom - Class 11 |
| Concept | Mammalia Mammary Glands |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |