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Androgen receptor expression in human tissues: an immunohistochemical study.
J A Ruizeveld de Winter1, J Trapman, M Vermey
1Department of Pathology, Erasmus University, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Summary
Immunohistochemistry with MAb F39.4 mapped human androgen receptor (AR) locations. This technique confirmed AR in many tissues but not thyroid or pancreas, highlighting its utility for studying AR expression.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
- Histology
Background:
- The human androgen receptor (AR) plays a crucial role in various physiological processes.
- Understanding AR cellular localization is vital for comprehending its function in health and disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To visualize the cellular and subcellular localization of the human androgen receptor (AR) in diverse human tissues.
- To evaluate the utility of a specific monoclonal antibody (MAb) F39.4 for immunohistochemical detection of AR.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical staining of human tissues using a mouse monoclonal antibody (MAb) F39.4, targeting the N-terminal domain of the AR.
- Comparison of immunohistochemical findings with existing biochemical and autoradiographic data.
Main Results:
- Nuclear immunoreactivity generally aligned with previous studies, but AR expression was not confirmed in thyroid, pancreatic, gastrointestinal, or bladder tissues.
- Selective basal cell layer staining in stratified squamous epithelia (vagina, cervix) and decreasing intensity with maturation in preputial epithelium.
- Distinct staining patterns in glandular epithelia (sweat glands, male accessory organs, breast) and specific cell types within the testis (Sertoli, peritubular myoid, interstitial cells).
- Smooth muscle AR expression was predominantly observed in male reproductive organs.
Conclusions:
- Immunohistochemistry with MAb F39.4 provides a sensitive and specific method for detecting human AR at the cellular level.
- This technique refines our understanding of AR tissue distribution, identifying discrepancies with prior reports.
- Immunohistochemistry is a valuable tool for investigating AR expression in both physiological and pathological conditions.