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Interstitial cells in the human prostate: a new therapeutic target?
Frank Van der Aa1, Tania Roskams, Wim Blyweert
1Department of Urology, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Kuleuven, Belgium.
The Prostate
|July 15, 2003
Summary
Interstitial cells, crucial for organ function, have been identified in the human prostate. These cells, expressing specific receptors and proteins, are likely involved in normal prostate physiology.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Cell Biology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Interstitial cells regulate motility in organs like the gut and bladder.
- These cells are implicated in conditions ranging from motility disorders to vanilloid therapy mechanisms.
- Recent findings indicated interstitial cells and slow wave potentials in guinea pig prostates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and characteristics of interstitial cells in the human prostate gland.
- To determine the potential physiological role of these cells in prostate function.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical staining was performed on 14 fresh frozen prostatectomy specimens.
- Antibodies used included c-kit, vanilloid receptor 1 (VR1), cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1), connexin43, and neurofilament.
- Cellular morphology and location were analyzed within the prostatic duct system and smooth muscle layers.
Main Results:
- Stellate-shaped interstitial cells were observed beneath the basal layer of prostatic ducts and among smooth muscle cells.
- These cells demonstrated immunoreactivity for c-kit, VR1, and connexin43.
- No immunoreactivity was found for CB1 or neurofilament, suggesting specific cell markers.
Conclusions:
- The study provides evidence for the existence of interstitial cells within the human prostate.
- Based on their location, markers, and comparison with other organs, these cells are proposed to play a role in normal prostate physiology.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the function of these newly identified prostatic interstitial cells.