Oncornavirus-like particles released by human prostatic explant cultures

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Virology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Oncornaviruses, a type of retrovirus, have been investigated for their potential role in human diseases.
• Prostatic hyperplasia and adenocarcinoma are common conditions affecting the prostate gland.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the presence and characteristics of oncornavirus-like particles in human prostatic tissues.
• To determine if such particles are associated with prostatic hyperplasia and adenocarcinoma.

Main Methods:

• Human prostatic tissue explant cultures were established.
• Culture media were analyzed for extracellular particles using sucrose density gradients.
• Particles were characterized by their density, RNA-directed DNA polymerase activity, and template preferences.
• Comparison with particles from cultured monkey kidney cells.

Main Results:

• Epithelial explants from hyperplastic and cancerous prostates released oncornavirus-like particles.
• These particles banded at a density of 1.1-1.2 g/cm3 and contained RNA-directed DNA polymerase.
• The polymerase showed specific template and cofactor preferences (poly(Cm), poly(A), Mn2+).
• Particles contained RNA that directed in vitro DNA synthesis.

Conclusions:

• Human prostatic hyperplasia and adenocarcinoma tissues can release oncornavirus-like particles.
• These particles possess biochemical properties consistent with retroviral oncornaviruses.
• The findings suggest a potential viral etiology or association in these prostatic conditions.