Histochemical study of the human bulbourethral (Cowper's) glands

Human bulbourethral glands were reacted histochemically and immunohistochemically to identify glycoproteins, some androgen metabolic enzymes, and VIP-like immunoreactivity. Neutral/acid mucosubstances were detected in the cytoplasm of the tubuloalveolar and ductal cells. 3 beta-, 17 beta-, and 3 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, G6PD, and 6PGD reactivity were intense in all the glandular epithelium. Small amounts of VIP-positive fibres were observed around the secretory elements.