[Early changes in the dog prostate after castration. An ultrastructural study]

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Andrology
• Cell Biology

Context:

• Prostate gland function is androgen-dependent.
• Castration removes the primary source of androgens.
• Short-term effects of androgen deprivation on the prostate are not fully understood.

Purpose:

• To investigate the immediate ultrastructural changes in the canine prostate following castration.
• To characterize the cellular responses of the prostatic epithelium to androgen withdrawal.

Summary:

• Electron microscopy revealed significant prostatic epithelial alterations 3 days post-castration in Beagle dogs.
• Secretory epithelial cells showed regressive changes, including reduced height and fewer granules.
• Basal cells were consistently stimulated, with some forming acinus-like structures.

Impact:

• Demonstrates rapid, distinct cellular responses within the prostate after androgen deprivation.
• Highlights the differential sensitivity of prostatic epithelial cell types to hormonal changes.
• Provides insights into the early pathogenesis of prostatic atrophy and hyperplasia.