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In vivo modulation of androgen receptor by androgens
V L Kumar1, P K Majumder, V Kumar
1Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi 110 029, India. kumarvl98@hotmail.com
Asian Journal of Andrology
|October 5, 2002
Summary
Androgens increase prostate size and negatively regulate androgen receptor (AR) mRNA levels. Antiandrogens like flutamide also increase AR mRNA, indicating complex hormonal feedback in prostate tissue.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Urology
Background:
- Androgens are critical regulators of prostate development and function.
- The androgen receptor (AR) plays a central role in mediating androgenic effects.
- Understanding AR regulation is key to managing prostate diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of androgens and antiandrogens on androgen receptor (AR) mRNA levels in prostate tissue.
- To elucidate the transcriptional regulation of the AR gene under varying hormonal conditions.
Main Methods:
- Prostate tissue from rats was used for total RNA extraction.
- Slot blot analysis and hybridization with AR cDNA probe were employed.
- Autoradiography and densitometry quantified AR mRNA levels relative to an internal control.
Main Results:
- Androgenic deprivation via castration reduced prostate weight and elevated AR mRNA levels.
- Testosterone treatment in castrated rats restored prostate weight and decreased AR mRNA.
- Flutamide treatment in normal rats reduced prostate weight and increased AR mRNA levels.
Conclusions:
- Androgens exert a proliferative effect on the prostate gland.
- Androgens negatively regulate androgen receptor (AR) transcription.
- The findings suggest a feedback mechanism where androgens downregulate their own receptor's mRNA expression.