International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

Lactose is synthesized in which part of the body?

1. Liver

2. Adipose tissue

3. Lactocytes of the mammary glands

4. Intestinal cells

The correct answer is: Lactocytes of the mammary glands

Lactose is synthesized in the lactocytes of the mammary glands. During lactation, these specialized epithelial cells are responsible for the production of lactose, which is a disaccharide sugar composed of glucose and galactose. The synthesis of lactose occurs as part of the milk production process, where lactose serves as the primary carbohydrate found in human milk. It provides an essential source of energy for the nursing infant and plays a role in the absorption of calcium and other minerals. The enzymatic activity involved in lactose synthesis primarily occurs through the action of lactase, which is produced by the lactocytes. This process is critical for milk production and overall infant nutrition, emphasizing the importance of these cells in lactation physiology. Understanding this process is vital for those in the field of lactation and nursing, highlighting the specific role of mammary gland cells in creating the nutritional components necessary for breastfeeding.