Rectal volume is correlated with interfractional positional shifts of the prostate gland in dogs receiving radiation therapy.

Variability in prostate gland positioning during RT for prostate tumors is a recognized challenge in both human and veterinary oncology. This retrospective study investigates the interfractional variability in prostate gland positioning in relation to rectal and bladder volumes in dogs undergoing radiation therapy (RT) for prostate tumors. The study tracked 10 dogs undergoing five RT sessions from February 2016 to November 2021, delivering a total of 25 Gy each. Each dog underwent CT scans for treatment simulation, and cone-beam CT (CBCT) images were acquired before each RT. The focus was to analyze the positional shifts of the prostate gland concerning the volumes of the rectum and urinary bladder. The pelvic bones were used as the point of reference. The rectal and bladder volumes were measured before each RT, and shifts in the prostate gland position were calculated by comparing coordinates from planning CT and treatment session images. Findings revealed significant correlations between prostate positional shifts in the dorsal-ventral (repeated measures correlation coefficient of -0.58 [range 00.75-00.33]; P < .001) and cranial-caudal directions (repeated measures correlation coefficient [95%CI] 0.56 [range 0.31-0.74]; P < .001) and rectal volume, while no significant relationship was observed with bladder volume. Shifts in the lateral direction were not correlated with either organ's volume. This study highlights the importance of considering rectal volume in canine prostate tumor RT to minimize positional uncertainties. Maintaining consistent rectal volume may enhance the precision of prostate targeting, potentially influencing the safety of RT.

Quantitative morphological analysis of age structural changes in prostate of experimental animals with ethanol poisoning.

OBJECTIVE: Aim: To find out the age remodeling of the structural components of the prostate gland at alcohol poisoning using quantitative morphological analysis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The structure of the prostate gland of 4 white male rats groups were morphologically investigated. The 1 group included 30 control intact animals aged 8 months, the 2-nd group - 30 rats aged 24 months, the 3-rd group - 30 8-month-old animals with ethanol intoxication, and the 4-th group included 30 24-month-old rats with the specified simulated pathology. Ethanol intoxication was modeled by intragastric administration of 30% ethyl alcohol solution at a dose of 20 ml/kg once daily for 28 days. Rats were euthanized by bloodletting under general thiopental anesthesia 28 days after the beginning of the experiment. The area of glands, the height of glandular epithelial cells, the area of their nuclei and cytoplasm, the nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio in these cells and the stromal-parenchymal ratio in the organ were studied using light microscopy and were determined morphometrically. Morphometric parameters were processed statistically. RESULTS: Results: It was established that with age in the intact prostate of laboratory sexually mature white male rats, the area of glands, the height of glandular epitheliocytes, the area of their nuclei and cytoplasm, with the stability of nuclear-cytoplasmic ratios in the epithelial cells of the glands, significantly decreases, and the stromal-parenchymal ratio in the organ under study increases. Long-term ethanol poisoning leads to pronounced structural changes in the prostate, which is characterized by pronounced atrophy of the glandular epithelium, a decrease in the area of the glands, a decrease in the height of epithelial cells, a violation of nuclear-cytoplasmic relations in them, an increase in stromal-parenchymal ratio, and a prominent growth of the muscle-elastic stroma. The revealed structural changes of the studied components of the prostate dominated in 24-month-old experimental animals. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Morphological analysis of the prostate gland established that morphometric and morphological changed significantly according to the age and were depend on the ethanol poisoning.

Canine prostatic serum esterase and strain and 2D-shear wave sonoelastography for evaluation of normal prostate in dogs: Preliminary results.

Canine prostatic serum esterase (CPSE) is considered a useful tool to identify prostate disorders in dogs, with increasing interest in ultrasound (US)-based sonoelastography to non-invasively detect prostate disorders. Since no report is available about a possible correlation between these diagnostic tools, we aimed to investigate a possible correlation between strain elastography (SE) and 2D-shear wave elastography (SWE) and CPSE. Twenty-one dogs were included and, on each animal, CPSE was evaluated followed by a complete US examination and SE and 2D-SWE application. Healthy dogs were identified based on the CPSE results. All the dogs included were characterized by normal CPSE values (<52.3 ng/mL) and normal US prostate appearance. The prostate was characterized by intermediate stiffness with SE (pattern III - 84.7% for the left lobe and 79.27% for the right lobe) and softer than the abdominal wall (SR 0.6 for the left lobe and 0.56 for the right lobe), with low values for both m/s and kilopascals (kPa) for 2D-SWE, pointing that the healthy tissue is not hard. 2D-SWE results were, respectively, 13.51 ± 5.55 kPa and 2.31 ± 0.42 m/s for the left lobe and 18.05 ± 6.47 kPa and 2.39 ± 0.43 m/s for the right lobe. The significant difference between the right and left measurements expressed with kPa, not evidenced with m/s, can be considered indicative of m/s as the most reliable measurement to be considered regarding the prostate parenchyma. Even though no linear correlation was detected between CPSE and elastography values, these preliminary results evidence that the healthy prostates were characterized by a similar elastographic pattern, thus pointing that these techniques can be potentially useful to be applied in case of prostatic disorders to improve the accuracy of the final diagnosis in a non-invasive way.

Effects of Dibutylphthalate and Steroid Hormone Mixture on Human Prostate Cells.

Phthalates are a family of aromatic chemical compounds mainly used as plasticizers. Among phthalates, di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) is a low-molecular-weight phthalate used as a component of many cosmetic products, such as nail polish, and other perfumed personal care products. DBP has toxic effects on reproductive health, inducing testicular damage and developmental malformations. Inside the male reproductive system, the prostate gland reacts to both male and female sex steroids. For this reason, it represents an important target of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), compounds that are able to affect the estrogen and androgen signaling pathways, thus interfering with prostate homeostasis and inducing several prostate pathologies. The aim of this project was to investigate the effects of DBP, alone and in combination with testosterone (T), 17ß-estradiol (E2), and both, on the normal PNT1A human prostate cell-derived cell line, to mimic environmental contamination. We showed that DBP and all of the tested mixtures increase cell viability through activation of both estrogen receptor α (ERα) and androgen receptor (AR). DBP modulated steroid receptor levels in a nonmonotonic way, and differently to endogenous hormones. In addition, DBP translocated ERα to the nucleus over different durations and for a more prolonged time than E2, altering the normal responsiveness of prostate cells. However, DBP alone seemed not to influence AR localization, but AR was continuously and persistently activated when DBP was used in combination. Our results show that DBP alone, and in mixture, alters redox homeostasis in prostate cells, leading to a greater increase in cell oxidative susceptibility. In addition, we also demonstrate that DBP increases the migratory potential of PNT1A cells. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that DBP, alone and in mixtures with endogenous steroid hormones, acts as an EDC, resulting in an altered prostate cell physiology and making these cells more prone to cancer transformation.

QUANTITATIVE MORPHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE STRUCTURAL REARRANGEMENT OF THE VENOUS BLOOD VESSELS OF THE PROSTATE GLAND IN POST-RESECTION PORTAL HYPERTENSION.

OBJECTIVE: Aim: Using quantitative morphological methods to study the peculiarities of the structural reconstruction of the venous bad of the prostate at the conditions of post-resection portal hypertension. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: Morphologically, the venous bed of the prostate of 15 intact white rats, 30 animals with post-resection portal hypertension, 17 rats with a combination of post-resection portal hypertension with hepatargia, enteral, cardiac, and renal insufficiency was studied. Rats were slaughtered one month after the start of the experiment by bloodletting under general thiopental anesthesia. Morphometry of the venous blood vessels of the prostate gland was performed on histological specimens, during which the diameter of the postcapillary venules, the diameter of the venules, the external diameter of the venous vessels, the internal diameter of the venous vessels, the thickness of the wall of the venous vessels was determined. Also it was studied the height of endothelial cells, diameter of their nuclei, nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio in these cells, relative volume of damaged endothelial cells, density of vessels of microcirculatory bed per 1 mm² of prostate tissue. RESULTS: Results: It was found that resection of the left and right lobes of the liver leads to the development of postresection portal hypertension and pronounced remodeling of the vessels of the venous bed of the prostate gland, which was characterized by the expansion of the capillary venules of the prostate by 36.5%, with the occurrence of multiple organ failure by 38.5% (р<0.001 ), an increase in the lumen of veins, thinning of their wall, atrophy, dystrophy, and necrobiosis of endothelial cells, disruption of structural cellular homeostasis, endothelial dysfunction, hypoxia, dystrophic-necrotic changes in cells, stromal structures, infiltration, and sclerosis. Morphological changes in the structures of the prostate dominated when post-resection portal hypertension was combined with multiple organ failure. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Post-resection portal hypertension in laboratory sexually mature white male rats leads to pronounced remodeling of the venous bed of the prostate gland, which is characterized by the expansion of the lumen of the vessels, thinning of their walls, atrophic, dystrophic and necrobiotic changes in endothelial cells, a violation of structural cellular homeostasis in them, endothelial dysfunction, hypoxia, dystrophic-necrotic changes in cells, stromal structures, infiltration and sclerosis. Morphological changes in the structures of the prostate dominated when post-resection portal hypertension was combined with multiple organ failure.

FEATURES OF PRENATAL MORPHOGENESIS AND PECULARITIES OF THE UTRICULUS PROSTATICUS FETAL ANATOMY.

OBJECTIVE: Aim: To determine the peculiarities of the structural organization of the utriculus prostaticus (UP) in pre-fetuses and fetuses. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and methods: The study of macroscopic features and microscopic peculiarities of the prostate gland and the prostatic part of the urethra was carried out on 46 sections of human pre-fetuses and fetuses aged from 9 weeks to birth (31,0-375,0 mm PCL). The work uses the method of microscopic study of serial histological and topographic-anatomical specimens of the prostate gland, as well as the method of the thin preparation of the prostate part of the urethra in fetuses of different ages and morphometry. RESULTS: Results: In 58,0-66,0 mm PCL fetuses the paramesonephric ducts are reduced, except of their connected caudal part, which is a morphological substrate for the development of the UP. At 72,0-79,0 mm PCL fetuses, cavity is replaced by cellular mass. At the 85,0-120,0 mm PCL fetuses, the UP connects with the lumen of the urethra. The cavity of the UP intensivelly proliferates with cells. In fetuses of 125,0-135,0 mm PCL is presente dense arrangement of glandular elements, which are surrounded by fibrous-muscular membrane. In fetuses of 150,0-160,0 mm PCL, in the caudal direction, the cavity of the UP gradually narrows, it forms invaginations, especially in the middle and lower parts, or is divided into separate, interconnected chambers. In fetuses of 170,0-185,0 mm PCL, UP has elongated-oval or rounded-oval shape. In the caudal direction, the UP is directed ventral to the colliculus seminalis and is located slightly anterior and superior to the ejaculatory ducts. In 8-month-old fetuses, the lumen of the UP is lined with a pseudostratified cubical epithelium, outside of which there is a tunica muscularis. Ejaculatory ducts lined with a two-layer cuboidal epithelium are placed on both sides of the UP. A 270,0 mm PCL fetus has no UP at the apex of the colliculus seminalis. In fetuses 315,0-335,0 mm PCL, the process of cavity formation spreads to new areas of glandular formations of the prostate gland and their final branches. Most of the glandular formations open into the prostatic part of the urethra directly below the UP and the distal parts of the ejaculatory ducts. Microscopic examination of frontal sections of the prostate gland of a fetus with a 360,0 mm PCL revealed a septum in the UP which divides the cavity of the UP into the right and left halves of a round-oval shape. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: The formation of utriculus prostaticus occurs from the paramesonephric ducts in the 11th week of fetal development. At the beginning of the 4th month of intrauterine development, it gradually decreases in size. From the middle of the 5th month of prenatal development, the utriculus prostaticus lengthens, and starting from the fetus of 7 months, both its length and width increase. At the end of the fetal period, the utriculus prostaticus acquires a round-oval shape, its length increases from 0,5 to 4,3 mm during prenatal ontogeny.

Identification of castration-dependent and -independent driver genes and pathways in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).

BACKGROUND: Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most diagnosed cancers in the world. PCa inevitably progresses to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) after androgen deprivation therapy treatment, and castration-resistant state means a shorter survival time than other causes. Here we aimed to define castration-dependent and -independent diver genes and molecular pathways in CRPC which are responsible for such lethal metastatic events. METHODS: By employing digital gene expression (DGE) profiling, the alterations of the epididymal gene expression profile in the mature and bilateral castrated rat were explored. Then we detect and characterize the castration-dependent and -independent genes and pathways with two data set of CPRC-associated gene expression profiles publicly available on the NCBI. RESULTS: We identified 1,632 up-regulated and 816 down-regulated genes in rat's epididymis after bilateral castration. Differential expression analysis of CRPC samples compared with the primary PCa samples was also done. In contrast to castration, we identified 97 up-regulated genes and 128 down-regulated genes that changed in both GEO dataset and DGE profile, and 120 up-regulated genes and 136 down-regulated genes changed only in CRPC, considered as CRPC-specific genes independent of castration. CRPC-specific DEGs were mainly enriched in cell proliferation, while CRPC-castration genes were associated with prostate gland development. NUSAP1 and NCAPG were identified as key genes, which might be promising biomarkers of the diagnosis and prognosis of CRPC. CONCLUSION: Our study will provide insights into gene regulation of CRPC dependent or independent of castration and will improve understandings of CRPC development and progression.

Reference man for radiological protection: 71 chemical elements' content of the prostate gland (normal and cancerous).

Frequently knowledge of elemental content of human organs and tissues is required for a variety of applications. These can include brachytherapy and radiotherapy planning, radiation dosimetry and radiation protection. Revised reference values of chemical element mass fractions in normal and cancerous prostate tissues of the Reference (European Caucasian) Man are suggested as a result of this work. Autopsies of 37 apparently healthy males (mean age 55 ± 11 years, range 41-87 years) provided the prostatic tissues studied. The investigated individuals lived in a non-industrial, Central European region of Russia and had suffered sudden death. Also, tissues were studied from 62 subjects with prostate cancer (mean age 65 ± 10 years, range 40-79 years). Sixty-seven elemental mass fractions were determined in each of these 99 prostates. Analytical methods employed were inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry, neutron activation analysis with high-resolution spectrometry of short-lived and long-lived radionuclides, energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Whichever method was employed, the necessary quality control measures were utilized. Results presented here include a systematic analysis of both the prostatic data presented here for 67 elements and also others' published findings, to make a total of 71 elemental mass fraction values.

HEMODYNAMIC ANDCYTOLOGIC CHANGESINPROSTATE GLANDCAUSED BY CHRONIC HEPATITIS.

OBJECTIVE: The aim: Is to determine the features of hemodynamics and the character of structural and functional changes in the prostate gland in middle-aged infertile males in the conditions of chronic hepatitis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and methods: We studied the features of hemodynamics and structural and functional state of the prostate gland in middle-aged males who had suffered from chronic hepatitis with the help of ultrasound scanning, Color-Doppler sonography, and histology, morphology, and statistics. RESULTS: Results: It was detected that in 3-5 years after chronic viral hepatitis in middle-aged males (the first period), the volume of the prostate gland increases to (27.1±1.2) cm3, and its mass to (28.0±1.7) g compared to the control. Blood flow rates in the prostate gland: arterial blood flow velocity, blood flow diastolic velocity, volumetric blood flow are significantly lower than the control ones. Glandular zone surface decreases to 53% and connective tissue increases to 43%. Epithelium in the secretory area of the gland is compressed. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: 1.According to the data of ultrasound diagnostics and Color-Doppler sonography, the volume of the prostate gland increases to (27.1±1.8) cm3 and its mass to (28.0±1.7) g at chronic viral hepatitis, compared to the control (21.3±1.5) cm3 and (24.7±1.3) g (р<0.05). Atrophic changes in the prostate gland are manifested with the decreased height of the columnar epithelium of the gland and overgrowth of connective tissue in the stroma of the organ. 2.Angioechometric indices of arterial blood circulation in central and peripheral zone of the prostate decreases to (7.26±0.46) cm/sec and (7.80±0.32) cm/sec respectively compared to the control (18.30±3.10) cm/sec and (17.70±2.90) cm/sec. Venous blood flow rates decrease to (2.45±0.21) cm/sec and (2.60±0.16) cm/sec compared to (5.54±0.8) cm/sec and (5.36±0.03) cm/sec (р<0.05).

[The Value of MRI Texture Analysis in Identifying Intraductal Carcinoma of the Prostate Gland].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the value of a radiomics approach based on MRI texture analysis (TA) in identifying intraductal carcinoma of the prostate gland (IDCP). METHODS: MRI images of 56 patients with pathological proven prostate cancer were analyzed retrospectively, including 31 patients with pure prostate adenocarcinoma and 25 patients with IDCP component in the prostate adenocarcinoma lesions. After imaging features of lesions were analyzed, then enhanced arterial and venous phase images were imported into Omni-Kinetics software for the extraction the TA features of region of interests' lesion according to the T2-weighted imaging. In order to set up a regression prediction model which based on texture parameters and morphological features. Furthermore, the comparison of diagnostic accuracy of each TA regression models were assessed by operating characteristic curves (ROC). RESULTS: Among the imaging features of peripheral lesions, the incidence of surgical capsule invasion, prostatic capsule involvement, and seminal vesicle invasion in patients with IDCP was higher than that in patients with adenocarcinoma alone ( P<0.05). Among the imaging features of transitional zone lesions, patients with adenocarcinoma containing IDCP had a higher incience of imaging features as benign prostatic hyperplasia, extracapsular invasion of the prostate, seminal vesicles invasion, and vascular nerve bundles than that in pure adenocarcinoma group ( P<0.05). In order to differential diagnosis of simple adenocarcinoma and adenocarcinoma containing IDCP, 4 arterial phase texture features were used to build the regression model in the peripheral zone group, and the area under the curve ( AUC) of the TA model and combined model with or without seminal vesicles invasion were 0.890 and 0.938, respectively. In the transitional zone group, 2 arterial phase texture features and 2 venous phase features were used in TA regression model, and the AUC of texture model and the combined model with or without vascular nerve bundles were 0.844 and 0.901, respectively. CONCLUSION: The incidence of adenocarcinoma with IDCP is higher in high-grade invasive prostate cancer. It is wonderful that when compared with T2WI, enhanced sequential texture analysis is more valuable when using the radiomics approach based on MRI texture analysis in identifying IDCP in prostate cancer.

Morphine and Phoenix dactylifera (dates) effects on the histological features of male rat reproductive organs.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that morphine negatively effects male fertility while Phoenix dactylifera (dates) could cure male infertility by the exhibition of antagonist effects. This study was conducted to assess the possible ameliorating effects of dates on the histological features of morphine-induced male rat reproductive organs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adult male Sprague Dawley rats age 7-9 weeks old, 200-250 g body weight (BW) were divided into six rats per each group: Group 1, force-fed with distilled water, 1 ml/kg BW for 35 days (control); Group 2, intramuscularly (IM) injected with morphine, 20 mg/kg BW for 7 days followed by force-fed with distilled water for 28 days; Group 3, force-fed with distilled water for 7 days followed by crude P. dactylifera extract, 200 mg/kg for 28 days; Group 4, injected (IM) with morphine, 20 mg/kg BW for 7 days followed by force-fed of crude P. dactylifera extract, 200 mg/kg for 28 days. Rats were sacrificed on day 36. The seminal vesicle (SV) and prostate gland (PG) were removed and fixed before histological processes. RESULTS: In morphine-treated rats, the SV showed the absence of honeycomb-like appearance with flattened columnar cells while in the PG, eosinophilic secretion was noted to be absent from glandular lumina as compared to the control group. Administration of P. dactylifera extract in Group 4 showed improvement in histoarchitecture of the SV and PG with complex mucosal infoldings and glands luminal filled with secretion. CONCLUSION: P. dactylifera extract has a protective effect against the adverse effects of morphine on the male rat reproductive organs.

The role of WNT10B in normal prostate gland development and prostate cancer.

BACKGROUND: WNT signaling is implicated in embryonic development, and in adult tissue homeostasis, while its deregulation is evident in disease. This study investigates the unique roles of canonical WNT10B in both normal prostate development and prostate cancer (PCa) progression. METHODS: Organ culture and rat ventral prostates (VPs) were used to study Wnt10b ontogeny and growth effect of WNT10B protein. PB-SV40 LTag rat VPs were utilized for Wnt expression polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array and immunohistochemistry. Human localized PCa tissue microarrays (TMAs) were investigated for differential WNT10B expression. Human RNA-seq data sets were queried for differential expression of WNT10B in metastatic and localized PCa. Knockdown of WNT10B in PC3 cells was utilized to study its effects on proliferation, stemness, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and xenograft propagation. RESULTS: Wnt10b expression was highest at birth and rapidly declined in the postnatal rat VP. Exogenous WNT10B addition to culture developing VPs decreased growth suggesting an antiproliferative role. VPs from PB-SV40 LTag rats with localized PCa showed a 25-fold reduction in Wnt10b messenger RNA (mRNA) expession, confirmed at the protein level. Human PCa TMAs revealed elevated WNT10B protein in prostate intraepithelial neoplasia compared with normal prostates but reduced levels in localized PCa specimens. In contrast, RNA-seq data set of annotated human PCa metastasis found a significant increase in WNT10B mRNA expression compared with localized tumors suggesting stage-specific functions of WNT10B. Similarly, WNT10B mRNA levels were increased in metastatic cell lines PC3, PC3M, as well as in HuSLC, a PCa stem-like cell line, as compared with disease-free primary prostate epithelial cells. WNT10B knockdown in PC3 cells reduced expression of EMT genes, MMP9 and stemness genes NANOG and SOX2 and markedly reduced the stem cell-like side population. Furthermore, loss of WNT10B abrogated the ability of PC3 cells to propagate tumors via serial transplantation. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, these results suggest a dual role for WNT10B in normal development and in PCa progression with opposing functions depending on disease stage. We propose that decreased WNT10B levels in localized cancer allow for a hyperproliferative state, whereas increased levels in advanced disease confer a stemness and malignant propensity which is mitigated by knocking down WNT10B levels. This raises the potential for WNT10B as a novel target for therapeutic intervention in metastatic PCa.

Validation of canine prostate volumetric measurements in computed tomography determined by the slice addition technique using the Amira program.

BACKGROUND: Prostatic diseases are common and mostly associated with enlargement of the accessory gland. Thus, determining the prostate size has become a main criterion for evaluating prostate health status. Computed tomography (CT) is recommended as a beneficial tool for evaluating prostate size, morphology and surrounding tissues. The purpose of this study was to establish an accurate procedure for volume estimation and afterwards evaluate the prostate volume in CT. Data of 95 dogs were analysed (58 male intact, 37 male neutered) using the slice addition technique with the Amira program. Accuracy of volumetric measurements by CT was validated by comparing them with those of phantoms of known volume. Patients were grouped according to age (< 4 yrs., 4-8 yrs., > 8 yrs) and prostate morphology in CT (H = homogeneous, I = inhomogeneous, C = cystic). The length of the sixth lumbar vertebra was measured to relate prostate volume to body size. This ratio was generated to compare prostate volume between the groups, irrespective of body size (ratio volume = Rv). RESULTS: A high correlation between the CT-derived and phantom volume was found. Overall, the mean prostate volume was 58.6 cm3. The mean ratio volume was 1.3 in intact male dogs, this being significantly higher than in neutered dogs (0.7). The lowest ratio volume values were found in group H for intact (Rv = 0.9) and neutered dogs (Rv = 0.6), followed by group I (intact: Rv = 1.1; neutered: Rv = 0.7) and C (intact: Rv = 1.4; neutered: Rv = 0.8). The length of the sixth lumbar vertebra was well correlated with the prostate volume (intact: r = 0.63, p < 0.001; neutered: r = 0.48, p = 0.003), while age exhibited a correlation only in intact dogs (r = 0.52, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The present study is pioneering in applying a slice addition technique to volumetric measurements of the prostate gland in CT, resulting in a highly precise method. Volumetric measurements of the canine prostate gland in CT images provide information about the prostate structure, castration status, age and body size of the patients. Therefore, prostate volume is a relevant parameter for evaluating prostate health status.

An illustrated anatomical ontology of the developing mouse lower urogenital tract.

Malformation of the urogenital tract represents a considerable paediatric burden, with many defects affecting the lower urinary tract (LUT), genital tubercle and associated structures. Understanding the molecular basis of such defects frequently draws on murine models. However, human anatomical terms do not always superimpose on the mouse, and the lack of accurate and standardised nomenclature is hampering the utility of such animal models. We previously developed an anatomical ontology for the murine urogenital system. Here, we present a comprehensive update of this ontology pertaining to mouse LUT, genital tubercle and associated reproductive structures (E10.5 to adult). Ontology changes were based on recently published insights into the cellular and gross anatomy of these structures, and on new analyses of epithelial cell types present in the pelvic urethra and regions of the bladder. Ontology changes include new structures, tissue layers and cell types within the LUT, external genitalia and lower reproductive structures. Representative illustrations, detailed text descriptions and molecular markers that selectively label muscle, nerves/ganglia and epithelia of the lower urogenital system are also presented. The revised ontology will be an important tool for researchers studying urogenital development/malformation in mouse models and will improve our capacity to appropriately interpret these with respect to the human situation.

Prostatic Lesions in Odontocete Cetaceans.

The prostate is the only accessory male genital gland described in cetaceans. Although few studies describe the gross and histologic anatomy of the prostate in cetaceans, there is no information on pathological findings involving this organ. The prostate glands of 45 cetaceans, including 8 different odontocete species ( n = 44) and 1 mysticete, were evaluated. The main pathologic diagnoses were verminous prostatitis, septic prostatitis, viral prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and prostatitis of unknown etiology. Verminous prostatitis ( n = 12) was caused by nematodes of the genus Crassicauda, and different presentations were observed. Septic prostatitis, identified in 2 cases, both involved nematode infestation and Clostridium spp coinfection. One case of viral prostatitis was identified and was associated with morbillivirus infection. In prostatitis of unknown cause ( n = 7), varying degrees of prostatic lesions, mostly chronic inflammation, were identified. Impacts at individual levels (eg, localized disease, loss of reproductive capacity) and population levels (eg, decreased reproductive success) are plausible. Our results indicate a high occurrence of prostatic lesions in free-ranging odontocetes. For this reason, the prostate should be routinely inspected and sampled during necropsy of odontocete cetaceans.

Stereomorphology of the peripheral zone of the human prostate.

OBJECTIVE: Introduction: The human prostate gland is a complex organ that consists of two main components - glandular and non-glandular. The first of them represents a compound of components of different origin, structure, location, and complexity of spatial organization. Their stereomorphology and microanatomical interrelations remain understudied for a number of reasons. The aim: The objective of the research was to study the stereomorphological features of the glandular component of the peripheral zone of the prostate in view of its zonal structure concept. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and methods: The material for the study was the glandular zone of the human prostate, which corresponds to the peripheral zone of the prostate according to the classification (Mc.Neal J.E., 1988). The following methods were used in the study: histological (4 mkm thick paraffin sections), microscopic (light microscopy using the Olympus BX-41 microscope), stereomorphological (obtaining waxed model reconstructions based on graphic ones). The study was conducted on 10 isolated prostate preparations (10 series of 50 preparations in each) taken from the deceased men without changes in the organ under investigation. The prostate gland was fixed in a 10% solution of buffered formalin, followed by obtaining serial plane-parallel sections and staining with hematoxylin and eosin according to the conventional technique. RESULTS: Results and conclusions: The ducts of the glands of the peripheral zone of the human prostate normally have recurrent luminal dilatations, which, like the multi-cavity terminal portions, can serve as a place for depositing a secret. The ducts of the peripheral zone glands, with the exception of the main duct, visually differ little in diameter. Their walls and walls of intra-acinar cavities are lined with homologous epithelial cells. Therefore, there is no clear morphological boundary between the transfer of the terminal portion to the duct and from one excretory duct to the other.

Stereomorphology of the glandular parenchyma of the inferoposterolateral area of human prostate gland.

OBJECTIVE: Introduction: The human prostate gland contains numerous tubular masses of different calibers in its parenchyma. They form the tubuloalveolar prostate glandules, constituting from numerous prostatic excretory ductules as well as major excretory ducts. The aim: The study was aimed at 3D visualization of individual microelements of the tubuloalveolar aggregations, localized within the peripheral area. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and methods: To meet the objectives of the study a series of paraffin plane-parallel 4 µm sections has been obtained in the peripheral prostate area. The serial sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. After the analysis of the series of sections, the graphical two-dimensional and plastic 3D reconstructions of the investigated microobjects have been made sequentially in depth. RESULTS: Results: Presence of the epithelial creases and invaginations of the wall in the luminal contour of tubuloalveolar aggregations of the prostate has been found. Creases can be solitary, multiple, or wavy; they can be localized both symmetrically and asymmetrically, with different heights and thicknesses. Intraluminal invaginations, along with the epithelial crease, contain a stromal muscle component with localized blood loop-shaped microvessel. The creases of the glandular epithelium and intraluminal invaginations can "overlap" the lumens of the tubuloalveolar aggregations up to 2/3 of the width, making the inner lumen sinuous that influences the laminar flow of the liquid. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Alternation of the considerable enlargement and narrowing of the inner diameter is common for the tubuloalveolar aggregations which can affect the secreta deposition and movement.

[Morphological evidence of the ischemic nature of the prostatic fibrosis in the classical chronic pelvic pain syndrome / IIIB chronic prostatitis].

AIM: To examine the structure of the prostate tissue in patients with III B chronic prostatitis (CP) and chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study analyzed transrectal fine-needle biopsy specimens of 10 patients with the verified diagnosis of chronic pelvic pain syndrome/category III B chronic prostatitis (CPPS/IIIB CP) according to the National Institutes of Health classification. Tissues were examined using light and electron microscopy, and immunohistochemical study of the expression of CD31, CD34, NSE and S-100 markers. RESULTS: All biopsy specimens of all patients showed fibroplastic changes of the prostate tissue most markedly pronounced in the stroma and muscle fibers in the form of total fibrosis, myofibril atrophy, and extracellular lipofuscin deposition. The examination revealed a significant reduction in the density of microcirculatory bed vessels and arteriolar luminal stenosis, a reduction in the number of nerve fibers, and compression of their fibrous tissue. No inflammatory changes were found in the prostate. DISCUSSION: In patients with CPPS/IIIB CP, the changes in the prostate at the microscopic and ultrastructural levels are characteristic of severe chronic tissue hypoxia, which leads to the development of fibrosis resulting in stenosis of microcirculatory bed vessels and degenerative changes in nerve fibers and cells. No signs of an inflammatory reaction in the examined tissue were established. CONCLUSION: Changes in the prostate tissue in CPPS/IIIB CP suggest the presence of chronic pelvic ischemia and exclude its association with inflammation as the main pathological process.

Iron oxide nanoparticles modulate heat shock proteins and organ specific markers expression in mice male accessory organs.

With increased industrial utilization of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3-NPs), concerns on adverse reproductive health effects following exposure have been immensely raised. In the present study, the effects of Fe2O3-NPs exposure in the seminal vesicle and prostate gland were studied in mice. Mice were exposed to two different doses (25 and 50 mg/kg) of Fe2O3-NPs along with the control and analyzed the expressions of heat shock proteins (HSP60, HSP70 and HSP90) and organ specific markers (Caltrin, PSP94, and SSLP1). Fe2O3-NPs decreased food consumption, water intake, and organo-somatic index in mice with elevated iron levels in serum, urine, fecal matter, seminal vesicle and prostate gland. FTIR spectra revealed alterations in the functional groups of biomolecules on Fe2O3-NPs treatment. These changes are accompanied by increased lactate dehydrogenase levels with decreased total protein and fructose levels. The investigation of oxidative stress biomarkers demonstrated a significant increase in reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide, lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl content and glutathione peroxidase with a concomitant decrement in the glutathione and ascorbic acid in the male accessory organs which confirmed the induction of oxidative stress. An increase in NADPH-oxidase-4 with a decrease in glutathione-S-transferase was observed in the seminal vesicle and prostate gland of the treated groups. An alteration in HSP60, HSP70, HSP90, Caltrin, PSP94, and SSLP1 expression was also observed. Moreover, accumulation of Fe2O3-NPs brought pathological changes in the seminal vesicle and prostate gland of treated mice. These findings provide evidence that Fe2O3-NPs could be an environmental risk factor for reproductive disease.

Heparanase 1 involvement in prostate physiopathology.

The prostate is a compound exocrine gland of the male reproductive tract universally present in mammals. It is highly responsive to androgen and can be committed by a variety of pathological complications as prostatitis, benign, and malignant proliferative changes, which may be intensified by aging. Prostate intensively turnover its extracellular matrix (ECM) either at homeostasis or disease which includes a dynamically change of glycosaminoglycan composition during the life of an individual. Among the different enzymes playing a role in such changes, heparanase-1 is responsible for cleaving heparan sulfate (HS) at a limited number of sites, clearly involved in tissue remodeling. Its activity has been strongly implicated in cell invasion associated with cancer metastasis, a consequence of the structural modification that loosens the ECM barrier. In the present review we focuses in some aspects of the prostate physiology and diseases, particular prostate cancer, evidencing how the HPSE-1 activity encompasses the relationship of both processes.