Expression of the mouse homologue for the human GCDFP-15/PIP gene during pre- and early post-natal development.

The function of the mouse submaxillary gland/prolactin inducible protein (mSMGP/mPIP), the homologue of the human gross cystic disease fluid protein 15 (GCDFP-15)/prolactin inducible protein (hPIP) remains unknown. The human gene, normally expressed in apocrine glands of healthy individuals, is aberrantly expressed in human breast cancers where it is regulated by hormones including androgens, and in prostate cancers. We have previously reported that in the adult mouse and rat, gene expression is tissue-specific for the salivary and lacrimal glands, and is hormonally regulated.