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Updated: May 31, 2026
The Examination of Peroxidase-Positive Leukocytes in Semen
Published on: January 19, 2024
Intriguing location of myeloperoxidase in the prostate: a preliminary immunohistochemical study
Th Roumeguère1, P Delree, P Van Antwerpen
1Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Unit 222, ULB, CHU Charleroi, Belgium. thierry.roumeguere@erasme.ulb.ac.be
Background:
Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is a member of the peroxidase-cyclooxygenase superfamily, which is secreted from stimulated leucocytes at inflammatory sites. It is well known that MPO catalyses oxidation reactions via the release of reactive halogenating and nitrating species and thus induces tissue damage. Several studies have already implicated MPO in the development of neoplasia. Chronic or recurrent prostatic inflammation has long been recognized as having the potential to initiate and promote the development of prostate cancer. The objective was to investigate whether MPO is present in the prostate.
Methods:
Human prostate material was obtained from biopsies, transurethral resections of the prostate (TURP), prostatic adenomectomies, and retropubic radical prostatectomies. Twenty-nine slides of normal prostate tissue, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and prostate cancer were reviewed by a pathologist. Immunohistochemical analysis using MPO-specific human antibody was performed to detect MPO in the prostate tissue.
Results:
Immunocytohistochemistry showed cellular colocalization of MPO in the secretory epithelial cells of the prostate with staining varying from light to strong intensity. Staining in the glandular apical snouts was often reinforced although staining of basal as well as of luminal glandular cells was also present.
Conclusions:
We identified, for the first time, the presence of MPO at the surface of prostatic epithelial cells. In view of the pro-oxidant properties of this enzyme, further research is needed to define whether MPO contributes to the development of prostatic lesions.
Insights
Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is present in prostate epithelial cells. This finding suggests MPO may play a role in prostate cancer development, warranting further investigation into its pro-oxidant effects on prostatic lesions.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is secreted by leukocytes at inflammatory sites.
- MPO catalyzes oxidation reactions, releasing reactive species that cause tissue damage.
- MPO has been implicated in neoplasia development, and prostatic inflammation is linked to prostate cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of MPO in human prostate tissue.
- To determine if MPO is associated with prostate cancer.
Main Methods:
- Human prostate tissues were obtained from various surgical procedures and biopsies.
- Pathological review of 29 slides of normal, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and prostate cancer tissues.
- Immunohistochemical analysis using MPO-specific antibodies to detect MPO presence and localization.
Main Results:
- Myeloperoxidase (MPO) was detected in the secretory epithelial cells of the prostate.
- MPO staining intensity varied from light to strong.
- Staining was observed in glandular apical snouts, basal cells, and luminal cells.
Conclusions:
- The study identified MPO on the surface of prostatic epithelial cells for the first time.
- Given MPO's pro-oxidant properties, further research is needed.
- The role of MPO in the development of prostatic lesions requires further investigation.
