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Vitku J, Kolatorova L, Hampl R. Occurrence and reproductive roles of hormones in seminal plasma. Basic Clin Androl 2017; 27:19. [PMID: 29046808 PMCID: PMC5640966 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-017-0062-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Only 2-5% of seminal fluid is composed of spermatozoa, while the rest is seminal plasma. The seminal plasma is a rich cocktail of organic and inorganic compounds including hormones, serving as a source of nutrients for sperm development and maturation, protecting them from infection and enabling them to overcome the immunological and chemical environment of the female reproductive tract. In this review, a survey of the hormones found in human seminal plasma, with particular emphasis on reproductive hormones is provided. Their participation in fertilization is discussed including their indispensable role in ovum fertilization. The origin of individual hormones found in seminal plasma is discussed, along with differences in the concentrations in seminal plasma and blood plasma. A part of review is devoted to methods of measurement, emphasising particular instances in which they differ from measurement in blood plasma. These methods include separation techniques, overcoming the matrix effect and current ways for end-point measurement, focusing on so called hyphenated techniques as a combination of chromatographic separation and mass spectrometry. Finally, the informative value of their determination as markers of male fertility disorders (impaired spermatogenesis, abnormal sperm parameters, varicocele) is discussed, along with instances where measuring their levels in seminal plasma is preferable to measurement of levels in blood plasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Vitku
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Narodni 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Kolatorova
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Narodni 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Richard Hampl
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Narodni 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic
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Szczyrba J, Niesen A, Wagner M, Wandernoth PM, Aumüller G, Wennemuth G. Neuroendocrine Cells of the Prostate Derive from the Neural Crest. J Biol Chem 2016; 292:2021-2031. [PMID: 28003366 PMCID: PMC5290971 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.755082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The histogenesis of prostatic neuroendocrine cells is controversial: a stem cell hypothesis with a urogenital sinus-derived progeny of all prostatic epithelial cells is opposed by a dual origin hypothesis, favoring the derivation of neuroendocrine cells from the neural crest, with the secretory and basal cells being of urogenital sinus origin. A computer-assisted 3D reconstruction was used to analyze the distribution of chromogranin A immunoreactive cells in serial sections of human fetal prostate specimens (gestation weeks 18 and 25). Immunohistochemical double labeling studies with YFP and serotonin antisera combined with electron microscopy were carried out on double-transgenic Wnt1-Cre/ROSA26-YFP mice showing stable YFP expression in all neural crest-derived cell populations despite loss of Wnt1 expression. 3D reconstruction of the distribution pattern of neuroendocrine cells in the human fetal prostate indicates a migration of paraganglionic cells passing the stroma and reaching the prostate ducts. Double-transgenic mice showed 55% double labeling of periurethral neuroendocrine cells expressing both serotonin and YFP, whereas single serotonin labeling was observed in 36% and exclusive YFP labeling in 9%. The results favor the assumption of a major fraction of neural crest-derived neuroendocrine cells in both the human and murine prostates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaroslaw Szczyrba
- From the Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Anne Niesen
- From the Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Mathias Wagner
- the Institute of Pathology, Saarland University Medical School, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Petra M Wandernoth
- From the Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Gerhard Aumüller
- the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Philipps University of Marburg, Robert-Koch-Strasse 8, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Gunther Wennemuth
- From the Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany.
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Badr O, Imam A, Monieb H, Khalifa A, Ahmady OA, Abdallah MA. Concentration of Calcitonin in Seminal Plasma of Infertile Men/Calcitonin-Konzentration im Spermaplasma von unfruchtbaren Männern. Andrologia 2009. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.1989.tb02435.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Krzysik-Walker SM, Ocón-Grove OM, Maddineni SB, Hendricks GL, Ramachandran R. Identification of Calcitonin Expression in the Chicken Ovary: Influence of Follicular Maturation and Ovarian Steroids1. Biol Reprod 2007; 77:626-35. [PMID: 17582014 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.106.054957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcitonin (CALCA), a hormone primarily known for its role in calcium homeostasis, has recently been linked to reproduction, specifically as a marker for embryo implantation in the uterus. Although CALCA expression has been documented in several tissues, there has been no report of production of CALCA in the ovary of any vertebrate species. We hypothesized that the Calca gene is expressed in the chicken ovary, and its expression will be altered by follicular maturation or gonadal steroid administration. Using RT-PCR, we detected Calca mRNA and the calcitonin receptor (Calcr) mRNA in the granulosa and theca layers of preovulatory and prehierarchial follicles. Both CALCA and Calca mRNA were localized in granulosa and thecal cells by confocal microscopy. Using quantitative PCR analysis, F1 follicle granulosa layer was found to contain significantly greater Calca mRNA and Calcr mRNA levels compared with those of any other preovulatory or prehierarchial follicle. The granulosa layer contained relatively greater Calca and Calcr mRNA levels compared with the thecal layer in both prehierarchial and preovulatory follicles. Progesterone (P(4)) treatment of sexually immature chickens resulted in a significantly greater abundance of ovarian Calca mRNA, whereas estradiol (E(2)) or P(4) + E(2) treatment significantly reduced ovarian Calca mRNA quantity. Treatment of prehierarchial follicular granulosa cells in vitro with CALCA significantly decreased FSH-stimulated cellular viability. Collectively, our results indicate that follicular maturation and gonadal steroids influence Calca and Calcr gene expression in the chicken ovary. We conclude that ovarian CALCA is possibly involved in regulating follicular maturation in the chicken ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M Krzysik-Walker
- Department of Poultry Science, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
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Kulkarni-Paranjape T, Shah GV. A synthetic peptide derived from mouse pituitary calcitonin cDNA sequence exhibits potent inhibition of prolactin secretion and prolactin mRNA abundance in primary mouse pituitary cells. Endocrine 2007; 31:242-7. [PMID: 17906370 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-007-0044-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2007] [Revised: 07/20/2007] [Accepted: 07/20/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
We have shown that gonadotrophs synthesize and secrete immunoreactive calcitonin (CT)-like peptide, and CT is a potent inhibitor of prolactin (PRL) secretion and gene transcription. CT cDNA cloned from LssT2 cells (pit-CT cDNA) exhibits 99% homology with mouse CT cDNA sequence, but exhibits four mismatches in the coding region of CT peptide (347-485 bp) with consequent changes in the amino acids at positions 5 and 17 of mouse CT. We have synthesized a putative 23 amino acid pit-CT peptide based on pit-CT cDNA sequence, and tested its effect on PRL secretion and mRNA abundance in primary mouse pituitary cells. The results suggest that synthetic pit-CT attenuates PRL mRNA abundance and inhibits PRL release from mouse anterior pituitary cells. Moreover, pit-CT is remarkably more potent than salmon (S)CT in attenuating PRL mRNA abundance. These results raise a possibility that this endogenous pituitary peptide may potentially serve as a therapeutic molecule for the treatment of prolactinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trupti Kulkarni-Paranjape
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University Of Louisiana, 700 University Avenue, Monroe, LA 71209, USA
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Maddineni SR, Krzysik-Walker SM, Ocón-Grove OM, Motch SM, Hendricks GL, Ramachandran R. Calcitonin is expressed in the chicken pituitary gland: influence of gonadal steroids and sexual maturation. Cell Tissue Res 2006; 327:521-8. [PMID: 17093921 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-006-0331-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2006] [Accepted: 08/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Calcitonin (CT) is primarily produced by the thyroid C cells in mammals or by the ultimobranchial gland in chickens. CT is also expressed by the pituitary gland in rats in which it functions as a paracrine factor causing decreased lactotroph proliferation and prolactin (PRL) secretion. Gonadal steroids influence CT expression in the rat pituitary gland. However, the expression of the CT gene in the pituitary gland of chickens or of any other avian species has not previously been reported. We have tested the hypotheses that CT is expressed in the chicken pituitary gland, and that its expression is influenced by sexual maturation or in response to ovarian steroid administration. We have detected robust expression of CT cDNA in the chicken pituitary gland by reverse transcription/polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The sequence of the pituitary-derived CT cDNA is identical to that of the ultimobranchial gland. CT-immunoreactive (ir) cells have been observed throughout the anterior pituitary gland by confocal microscopy. Many of the PRL-ir cells show co-localization with CT-ir cells. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis has revealed an inverse relationship between the quantities of PRL mRNA and CT mRNA in the pituitary gland: sexually mature hens contain lower amounts of CT mRNA but larger quantities of PRL mRNA compared with sexually immature chickens. Estradiol and/or progesterone treatment of sexually immature chickens leads to a significant decrease in the quantity of pituitary CT mRNA relative to that in the vehicle-treated chickens. We conclude that pituitary CT plays an important paracrine/autocrine role in the control of lactotroph function and PRL secretion in the chicken.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreenivasa R Maddineni
- Department of Poultry Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
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Adeoya-Osiguwa SA, Fraser LR. Calcitonin acts as a first messenger to regulate adenylyl cyclase/cAMP and mammalian sperm function. Mol Reprod Dev 2003; 65:228-36. [PMID: 12704735 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.10273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Calcitonin stimulates capacitation in uncapacitated mouse spermatozoa and then inhibits spontaneous acrosome loss in capacitated cells, responses similar to those elicited by fertilization promoting peptide (FPP), a peptide known to regulate the adenylyl cyclase/cAMP pathway. This study investigated the hypothesis that calcitonin also modulates this pathway. Calcitonin significantly stimulated cAMP production in uncapacitated spermatozoa and then inhibited it in capacitated cells; the magnitude of both stimulatory and inhibitory changes was similar to that obtained with FPP but the inhibitory responses to FPP preceded those of calcitonin. This possibly reflects the involvement of two different adenosine receptors in response to FPP compared with one calcitonin receptor. Calcitonin receptors were located on the acrosomal cap and the flagellum, the midpiece having a greater abundance than the principal piece. Although both calcitonin and adenosine receptors are found in the head and flagellum, there was no evidence for cross-talk between them. Chlortetracycline investigations to determine the minimum extracellular Ca(2+) requirement for responses to calcitonin revealed that calcitonin significantly stimulated capacitation in Ca(2+)-deficient medium but FPP did not. Calcitonin also significantly stimulated cAMP production under these conditions, and similarly preincubated suspensions, when diluted into +Ca(2+) medium, were significantly more fertile in vitro than untreated controls. These results indicate that calcitonin, like FPP, acts as a first messenger to regulate the production of cAMP and mammalian sperm function, but the differences in Ca(2+) requirements suggest that calcitonin and FPP may regulate different isoforms of adenylyl cyclase.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Adeoya-Osiguwa
- Centre for Reproduction, Endocrinology and Diabetes, School of Biomedical Sciences, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London Bridge, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
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Fraser LR, Adeoya-Osiguwa SA. Fertilization promoting peptide — A possible regulator of sperm function in vivo. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2001; 63:1-28. [PMID: 11358112 DOI: 10.1016/s0083-6729(01)63001-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Fertilization promoting peptide (FPP), a tripeptide related to thyrotrophin releasing hormone (TRH), is found in seminal plasma. Recent evidence obtained in vitro suggests that FPP may play an important role in regulating sperm fertility in vivo. Specifically, FPP initially stimulates nonfertilizing (uncapacitated) spermatozoa to "switch on" and become fertile more quickly, but then arrests capacitation so that spermatozoa do not undergo spontaneous acrosome loss and therefore do not lose fertilizing potential. These responses are mimicked, and indeed augmented, by adenosine, known to regulate the adenylyl cyclase (AC)/cAMP signal transduction pathway. Both FPP and adenosine have been shown to stimulate cAMP production in uncapacitated cells but inhibit it in capacitated cells, with FPP receptors somehow interacting with adenosine receptors and G proteins to achieve regulation of AC. These events affect the tyrosine phosphorylation state of various proteins, some being important in the initial "switching on," others possibly being involved in the acrosome reaction itself. Calcitonin and angiotensin II, also found in seminal plasma, have similar effects in vitro on uncapacitated spermatozoa and can augment responses to FPP, suggesting that all four molecules may be involved in regulating availability of cAMP. It is plausible that these molecules have similar effects in vivo, affecting fertility by stimulating and then maintaining fertilizing potential. Either reductions in the availability of FPP, adenosine, calcitonin, and angiotensin II or defects in their receptors could contribute to male infertility. These exciting results may provide new approaches for diagnostic tests and treatments of certain categories of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- L R Fraser
- Endocrinology and Reproduction Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences, King's College London, United Kingdom
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Pondel M. Calcitonin and calcitonin receptors: bone and beyond. Int J Exp Pathol 2000; 81:405-22. [PMID: 11298188 PMCID: PMC2517743 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2613.2000.00176.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2000] [Accepted: 10/05/2000] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcitonin (CT), a 32 amino acid peptide hormone produced primarily by the thyroid, and its receptor (CTR) are well known for their ability to regulate osteoclast mediated bone resorption and enhance Ca2+ excretion by the kidney. However, recent studies now suggest that CT and CTRs may play an important role in a variety of processes as wide ranging as embryonic/foetal development and sperm function/physiology. In this review article, CT and CTR gene transcription, signal transduction and function are addressed. The effects of CT on the physiology of a variety of organ systems are discussed and the relationship between polymorphisms in the CTR gene and bone mineral density (BMD)/osteoporosis is examined. Recent studies demonstrating the ability of receptor activity modifying proteins (RAMPs) to post-translationally modify the calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRLR) are detailed and studies employing transgenic mouse technology to determine the temporal and tissue specific transcriptional activity of the CTR gene in vivo are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pondel
- Department of Cellular Pathology, St. George's Hospital Medical School, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Calcitonin-related peptides have been found in the human prostate, and calcitonin (CT) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) have been demonstrated in subpopulations of neuroendocrine (NE) cells. The purpose of this study was to determine the concentrations of CT and CGRP as well as the densities of NE cells in normal prostates, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and carcinoma of the prostate (CAP). METHODS In 42 specimens of radical prostatectomy, the number of CT- and CGRP-immunoreactive NE cells in areas of normal and BPH tissue was determined, and compared with CAP tissue using immunocytochemistry. In addition, by radioimmunoassay (RIA), tissue levels of CT and CGRP were analyzed in extracts from areas of normal, BPH, and CAP tissue, as verified by adjacent histologic sections. RESULTS A significant decrease in CT-immunoreactive NE cells was observed in hyperplastic nodules of BPH in comparison to normal tissue. These findings were in parallel with a significant reduction in tissue CT level in BPH compared to normal tissue. There was also a marked, but statistically nonsignificant, reduction in CT levels in CAP tissue. In contrast, levels of CGRP in BPH and CAP tissue did not show any significant differences compared to normal tissue. CONCLUSIONS CT and CGRP are present in NE cells of the human prostate. Calcitonin levels are significantly reduced in BPH, in parallel with a decreased number of CT-immunoreactive NE cells, whereas no significant changes in tissue levels of CGRP were observed. The functional significance of these findings is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A Abrahamsson
- Department of Urology, University of Lund, Lund University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
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11
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Information is presented on prostatic neuroendocrine cells and neuroendocrine differentiation in prostatic carcinoma. The prognostic and therapeutic implications of neuroendocrine differentiation in prostatic carcinoma are reviewed. METHODS Data are presented that support the intriguing link between neuroendocrine differentiation, tumor progression, and androgen-independent prostate cancer. The hormones, and the receptors, expressed by prostatic neuroendocrine cells are investigated in order to elucidate their significance for prognosis and therapy. RESULTS The prognostic significance of neuroendocrine differentiation in prostatic malignancy has been controversial, but recent studies employing markers such as chromogranin A and neuron-specific enolase suggest that neuroendocrine differentiation, as reflected by increased tissue expression and/or blood levels of these neuroendocrine secretory products, correlates with poor prognosis, tumor progression, and androgen-independence. Since all malignant neuroendocrine cells are devoid of androgen receptors and since neuroendocrine phenotypic expression is not suppressed by androgen ablation, clonal propagation of androgen receptor-negative neuroendocrine cells may play an important role in the pathway towards the androgen-independent state of prostatic carcinoma. This would have significant implications for the treatment of prostate cancer, as several of the hormones known to be expressed by neuroendocrine-differentiated, malignant prostatic cells are potential candidates for drug therapy. A limited number of hormones have been tested in this context, in particular somatostatin, bombesin, and serotonin. CONCLUSIONS Neuroendocrine differentiation in carcinoma of the prostate appears to be associated with poor prognosis, tumor progression, and the androgen-independent state, for which there is currently no successful therapy. Therefore, new therapeutic protocols and trials need to be developed to test drugs based on neuroendocrine hormones and/or their antagonists. An evaluation of this new therapeutic approach against prostatic carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation, including hormone-refractory cancer, is easily justified, since these tumors are unresponsive to current modes of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A Abrahamsson
- Department of Urology, University Hospitals of Malmö and Lund, University of Lund, Sweden.
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Deftos LJ. Granin-A, parathyroid hormone-related protein, and calcitonin gene products in neuroendocrine prostate cancer. THE PROSTATE. SUPPLEMENT 1998; 8:23-31. [PMID: 9690660 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1097-0045(1998)8+<23::aid-pros5>3.0.co;2-h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The importance of the expression of granin A (GRN-A, chromogranin-A), calcitonin (CT) gene products (CGPs), and parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) has become appreciated in the neuroendocrine (NE) differentiation of prostate cancer. We have studied the prostate expression of these three NE cell products with in vivo and in vitro methods. METHODS GRN-A secretion was measured by immunoassay in serum samples from patients with prostate cancer. Immunohistology procedures were used to assess GRN-A, CGPs, and PTHrP expression in paraffin-embedded prostate tissue samples. Serum and tumor findings were evaluated according to the patient's clinical status. All three substances were also studied in prostate cancer cell cultures. RESULTS GRN-A, PTHrP, and CGPs were all secreted products of prostate cancer. Our studies demonstrated that GRN-A can serve as a prostate cancer serum and tumor marker with clinical value for both diagnosis and prognosis. Elevated serum GRN-A levels identified patients with prostate cancer, including some who did not have elevated serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. Serum GRN-A concentrations also had prognostic value for prostate cancer. PTHrP and CGPs were expressed in prostate cancer in addition to GRN-A, and all three were secreted by prostate cells in culture. Each had effects on prostate cell growth. CONCLUSIONS GRN-A, PTHrP, and CGPs are produced and secreted by prostate cells. These three NE cell products can serve as tumor and markers for prostate cancer that have diagnostic and prognostic value. In addition, their derived peptides regulate prostate cell growth. However, studies more conclusive than the preliminary observations of our group and of other investigators are needed to define the roles of PTHrP, GRN-A, and CGPs in prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J Deftos
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego 92161, USA.
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di Sant'Agnese PA. Neuroendocrine cells of the prostate and neuroendocrine differentiation in prostatic carcinoma: a review of morphologic aspects. Urology 1998; 51:121-4. [PMID: 9610566 DOI: 10.1016/s0090-4295(98)00064-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuroendocrine cells of the prostate are intraepithelial regulatory cells that secrete serotonin and a variety of peptide hormones. It is hypothesized that these cells regulate both growth and differentiation, as well as exocrine secretory activity through endocrine, paracrine, neurocrine, and lumenocrine mechanisms. Neuroendocrine differentiation in prostatic carcinoma occurs as pure neuroendocrine malignancies, such as small-cell carcinoma and carcinoid/carcinoid-like tumors, as well as focal neuroendocrine differentiation in a more conventional prostatic adenocarcinoma. Neuroendocrine differentiation in prostatic carcinoma may have diagnostic and prognostic significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A di Sant'Agnese
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester, New York 14642, USA
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Wu G, Burzon DT, di Sant'Agnese PA, Schoen S, Deftos LJ, Gershagen S, Cockett AT. Calcitonin receptor mRNA expression in the human prostate. Urology 1996; 47:376-81. [PMID: 8633405 DOI: 10.1016/s0090-4295(99)80456-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A subpopulation of prostate neuroendocrine (NE) cells contain calcitonin (CT). It has been postulated that CT-producing cells in the prostate account for the high CT level in the semen, and may be involved in the regulation of other epithelial cells via a paracrine mechanism. The presence of CT binding sites in the plasma membrane fraction of prostate tissue has been demonstrated by radioligand binding assay. In the present study, we investigated the CT receptor gene expression in the human prostate, a key component of the autocrine/paracrine loop in the CT functional pathway. METHODS Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was carried out to evaluate the CT receptor mRNA expression in normal prostate tissue. Subsequent DNA sequencing was used to verify RT-PCR amplified products and to determine the isoform of the receptor. To define the location of the CT receptor expression, nonradioactive in situ hybridization was performed with a digoxigenin-labeled probe complementary to the coding region of the CT receptor mRNA. A polyclonal antibody against CT was used to reveal the CT-secreting cells in the prostate. RESULTS CT receptor MRNA expression was detected in the prostate tissue. Further analysis of the DNA sequence showed that CT receptor expressed in the prostate was the isoform without a 16-amino acid insert in the first intracellular domain. In situ hybridization revealed that CT receptor was present in the prostate NE cells. Immunocytochemical staining of mirror image sections showed that some CT-secreting cells also expressed CT receptor. CONCLUSIONS CT receptor expression in the prostate, a key component in the CT functional pathway, is located in subsets of dispersed NE cells (CT secreting and CT nonsecreting), which indicates that prostate CT may play an important role in the autocrine/paracrine regulation of the prostate NE system.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Wu
- Department of Urology, University of Rochester Medical Center, NY, 14642, USA
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Noordzij MA, van Steenbrugge GJ, van der Kwast TH, Schröder FH. Neuroendocrine cells in the normal, hyperplastic and neoplastic prostate. UROLOGICAL RESEARCH 1995; 22:333-41. [PMID: 7740652 DOI: 10.1007/bf00296871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Neuroendocrine cells can be demonstrated in normal, hyperplastic and neoplastic prostatic tissues. The products secreted by these cells can be used as tissue and/or serum markers but may also have biological effects. Neuroendocrine cells in prostate cancer most probably do not contain the androgen receptor and are therefore primarily androgen independent. Some of the neuropeptides secreted by the neuroendocrine cells may act as growth factor by activation of membrane receptors in an autocrine-paracrine fashion or by ligand-independent activation of the androgen receptor in neighboring non-neuroendocrine cells. Evidence is accumulating from experiments with tumor models that neuropeptides indeed can influence the growth of prostatic tumor cells. Future research on neuroendocrine differentiation may answer some questions concerning the biological behavior of clinical prostatic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Noordzij
- Department of Urology, Erasmus University, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Iwamura M, Wu G, Abrahamsson PA, di Sant'Agnese PA, Cockett AT, Deftos LJ. Parathyroid hormone-related protein is expressed by prostatic neuroendocrine cells. Urology 1994; 43:667-74. [PMID: 8165767 DOI: 10.1016/0090-4295(94)90182-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) is a regulatory peptide that has been associated with normal fetal growth and differentiation as well as the regulation of fetal calcium. In a variety of cancers, PTHrP has been implicated in the humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy. Recently, we demonstrated that all prostatic adenocarcinomas express PTHrP. In the present study, the localization of PTHrP and its mRNA in nonmalignant prostate tissue was assessed. METHODS Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded prostatic tissues from 23 patients were evaluated. Immunocytochemistry (ICC) was performed by the streptavidin-peroxidase enzyme conjugate method using a monoclonal antibody, 8B12, generated against fragment 1-34 of the amino-terminal end of PTHrP. Nonradioactive in situ hybridization was carried out using a digoxigenin labeled single-stranded cDNA probe complementary to the sequence coding for PTHrP(15-120). RESULTS PTHrP immunoreactivity was observed in the cytosol of a few epithelial cells. Double labeling and serial section ICC with 8B12 and a monoclonal antibody to chromogranin A (a generic neuroendocrine [NE] marker) revealed that PTHrP was present in a subpopulation of prostatic NE cells. In situ hybridization of mirror image sections demonstrated positive signals in prostatic NE cells in complete accordance with the ICC findings. CONCLUSIONS The localization and production of PTHrP in prostatic NE cells suggest that this polypeptide may act in an endocrine-paracrine fashion involved in the prostatic growth and differentiation as well as the regulation of calcium in semen and seminal fluid.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Iwamura
- Department of Urology, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York
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Abstract
Inclusion of salmon calcitonin in the culture medium of rat ventral prostate explants diminished l-tartarate-sensitive acid phosphatase activity in the tissues with a concomitant increment of the enzyme activity in the medium. The effect of the hormone was dose-dependent for a dose range of 10(-12)-10(-6) M. Acid phosphatase activity in prostate explants decreased from 38.6 +/- 3.5 to 20.5 +/- 2.8, whereas it increased from 0.60 +/- 0.15 to 2.80 +/- 0.40 nmol p-nitrophenol liberated/mg protein/30 min in the culture medium. Tissues exposed to 10(-6) M salmon calcitonin had higher acetylcholinesterase activity (8.8 +/- 0.7) than non-exposed ones (6.2 +/- 0.5 mumol substrate hydrolyzed/g tissue/min). These results suggest that locally produced calcitonin causes a release for prostatic acid phosphatase from prostate tissues possibly through its interaction with the cholinergic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Latif
- Department of Biochemistry, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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18
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Abstract
Endocrine-paracrine cells of the prostate (also known as APUD or neuroendocrine cells) constitute, in addition to the basal and exocrine secretory cells, a third population of highly specialized epithelial cells in the prostate gland. These endocrine-paracrine cells contain, and most likely secrete, serotonin and calcitonin, as well as variety of other peptides. Little is known of the functional role of these cells, but they probably subserve a paracrine or local regulatory role. They may also regulate via endocrine, lumencrine, or neurocrine mechanisms. These endocrine-paracrine cells probably play a significant role during prostatic growth and differentiation as well as regulating the secretory process of the mature gland. Neuroendocrine differentiation in prostatic carcinoma occurs in the form of the relatively rare small cell carcinoma and carcinoid or carcinoid-like tumor, but most commonly as focal neuroendocrine differentiation in a conventional prostatic adenocarcinoma that is a very frequent, if not ubiquitous phenomenon, and reflects tumor cell heterogeneity mimicking the normal differentiation process. The world's literature on neuroendocrine differentiation in prostatic carcinoma is reviewed. Neuroendocrine differentiation in all types of prostatic carcinoma appears to correlate with a poor prognosis. This correlation is probably multifactorial and may relate to a positive correlation with grade, a direct resistance to hormonal manipulation, and/or autocrine/paracrine growth factor activity due to the secretion of neuroendocrine products. Neuron-specific enolase and chromogranin, as well as other neuroendocrine products, may be useful as serum markers in patients with prostatic carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation. New therapeutic strategies need to be developed to treat these tumors. This includes the use of specialized protocols that have been effective against neuroendocrine carcinomas arising in other organ systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A di Sant'Agnese
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, NY 14642
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19
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Brotherton J. Parathyroid hormone: another pregnancy protein present in human seminal plasma and amniotic fluid. Andrologia 1991; 23:57-9. [PMID: 1897758 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.1991.tb02499.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) has been found in human seminal plasma at concentrations of 302 +/- 65 (222-482) pmol l-1 (n = 16), which is about 5 times the concentration in human blood serum. Concentrations in human amniotic fluid at 16-22 weeks of gestation were 43 +/- 9 (28-65) pmol l-1 (n = 24), which is about 80% of the concentration in blood serum. The Amersham assay uses an antiserum raised against the synthetic middle piece of the PTH molecule from the parathyroid glands. It estimates amino acids 44-68 of the 84 amino acid intact molecule, together with fragments containing this part of the chain. It is considered that a placental type of parathyroid hormone was being measured, some of which escapes into the amniotic fluid. The placenta contains a complete PTH-dihydroxyvitamin D3 system that causes the absorption of more calcium from the gut for foetal needs during pregnancy. It is postulated that the seminal vesicles also contain a PTH-dihydroxyvitamin D3 system that has a paracrine action in passing large amounts of calcium into the ejaculate.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Brotherton
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology, Sterility and Family Planning, Klinikum Steglitz, Free University, West Berlin, Germany
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20
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Kiernan M, Gaffney EF. The endocrine-paracrine cells of von Brunn's nests and glandular metaplasia in the supramontanal prostatic urethra. Histopathology 1990; 16:365-9. [PMID: 2361651 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.1990.tb01140.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine-paracrine (EP) cells are normal cellular constituents of the human genitourinary tract. We examined the distribution and immunostaining profile of EP cells in von Brunn's nests and glandular metaplasia in the supramontanal (proximal) prostatic urethra of adult males and in prostatic ducts of the male fetal urethra. In 15/17 transurethral prostatic resection specimens there were argyrophilic cells and/or serotonin and neuronspecific enolase containing cells in von Brunn's nests/glandular metaplasia and in the supramontanal prostatic urethra. All seven fetal specimens examined contained EP cells and five had focal calcitonin immunoreactivity in prostatic ducts and ductal buds. One adult resection specimen had focal staining for human chorionic gonadotrophin and no case showed staining for somatostatin. These results further support the contention that von Brunn's nests and glandular metaplasia are probably normal urothelial variants in the adult supramontanal prostatic urethra.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kiernan
- Department of Pathology, St Vincent's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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21
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Graczykowski JW, Vermesh M, Siegel MS, Davidson A, Lobo RA. Absence of direct effect of beta-endorphin and calcitonin on human sperm motility. ARCHIVES OF ANDROLOGY 1990; 24:121-4. [PMID: 2139319 DOI: 10.3109/01485019008986871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Beta-endorphin and calcitonin are found in the male reproductive tract. To elucidate the role of these hormones in reproduction, we studied their effect on sperm motility in vitro. Eight semen specimens were obtained from healthy donors, washed, and incubated with different concentrations of human beta-endorphin and human calcitonin. After 30 min of incubation, percentage of motile sperm (% motility), mean progressive velocity (MPV), and lateral head displacement (LHD) were assessed by a computerized semen analyzer. There were no significant differences in any of the sperm motility parameters between control and treated sperm. There was also no correlation between the concentration of beta-endorphin or calcitonin and any sperm motility parameters. It would appear that beta-endorphin and calcitonin may not directly affect sperm motility parameters in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- J W Graczykowski
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California School of Medicine, Los Angeles
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22
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Aumüller G, Seitz J. Protein secretion and secretory processes in male accessory sex glands. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CYTOLOGY 1990; 121:127-231. [PMID: 2190945 DOI: 10.1016/s0074-7696(08)60660-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G Aumüller
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Philipps-Universität D-3550, Marburg, Federal Republic of Germany
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23
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Davis NS, DiSant'Agnese PA, Ewing JF, Mooney RA. The neuroendocrine prostate: characterization and quantitation of calcitonin in the human gland. J Urol 1989; 142:884-8. [PMID: 2475647 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-5347(17)38936-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Calcitonin was extracted from surgically-derived prostate tissue, and quantified using radioimmunoassay. Normal prostatic specimens contained 15.18 +/- 10.03 ng./gm. wet weight (mean +/- S.D., n = 20), with a range of 1.50 to 39.62 ng./gm. The result for the hyperplastic tissue samples (n = 20) averaged 0.63 +/- 0.39 ng./gm. with a range of 0.22 to 1.49 ng./gm. This difference was statistically significant (p less than .0001). Dilution profiles for the prostatic calcitonin and synthetic monomeric human calcitonin were congruent, suggesting that the two peptides are identical. A comparison of calcitonin levels and the number of immunohistochemically derived neuroendocrine cells in contiguous tissue sections showed an empiric correlation. The mean calcitonin level in normal human prostate tissue was found to exceed values previously reported for numerous other organs, with the exception of the thyroid gland, the principal source of circulating calcitonin. We propose that a subpopulation of neuroendocrine cells within the prostate gland produce calcitonin, as is the case in the gastrointestinal tract, lung, and other organs. Our findings also support the hypothesis that the calcitonin found in seminal fluid originates in the prostate. Putative roles for calcitonin in the genitourinary system are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- N S Davis
- Department of Urology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, New York
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24
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Gnessi L, Ulisse S, Fabbri A, Jannini EA, Bonifacio V, Moretti C, Spera G, Isidori A. Isolation of a human seminal plasma peptide with bombesin-like activity**Presented in part at the 70th Annual Meeting of the Endocrine Society, New Orleans, Lousiana, June 8 to 11, 1988. Fertil Steril 1989. [DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(16)60739-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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25
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Singer R, Bruchis S, Sagiv M, Allalouf D, Levinsky H, Kaufman H. Beta-endorphin and calcitonin in human semen. ARCHIVES OF ANDROLOGY 1989; 23:77-81. [PMID: 2528946 DOI: 10.3109/01485018908986792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The levels of beta-endorphin (beta-E) and calcitonin were estimated in 36 samples of seminal plasma from semen of normospermic, oligozoospermic, and azoospermic origins and in pools of isolated sperm. The mean levels in plasma calculated for all samples examined were 192 +/- 224 pg/ml for beta-E and 754 +/- 397 pg/ml for calcitonin. The amounts in sperm were as follows: for beta-E in pools with sperm counts of 0.1-10 x 10(6)/ml, 157.2 +/- 99.7 pg/10(8) and 27.9 +/- 23.6 pg/ml protein; in pools of greater than 10-30 x 10(6)/ml, 71.2 +/- 41.5 pg/10(8) and 6.5 +/- 1.2 pg/mg protein; in pools of greater than 30-200 x 10(6)/ml, 24.9 +/- 9.7 pg/10(8) and 61 +/- 1.9 pg/mg protein. For calcitonin the amounts were: 501.2 +/- 170.8 pg/10(8) and 27.4 +/- 21.5 pg/mg protein, correspondingly. It was suggested that beta-E and calcitonin present in seminal plasma are synthesized mostly in a compartment of the male reproductive system. The high cellular beta-E and calcitonin levels would be involved in the process of motility through their effect on calcium transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Singer
- Male Fertility Laboratory, Beilinson Medical Center, Petah Tikva, Israel
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26
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Abrahamsson PA, Wadström LB, Alumets J, Falkmer S, Grimelius L. Peptide-hormone- and serotonin-immunoreactive cells in normal and hyperplastic prostate glands. Pathol Res Pract 1986; 181:675-83. [PMID: 2436200 DOI: 10.1016/s0344-0338(86)80043-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Peptide-hormone- and serotonin-immunoreactive cells of endocrine type are present both in the normal prostatic gland and in the nodules of benign prostatic hyperplasia of man. They are located in the epithelium of the acini and the ducts of all the different parts of the gland, as well as in the urothelium of the prostatic part of the mucosa of the urethra. The endocrine cells are usually argyrophil, sometimes even argentaffin, and immunoreactive with neuron-specific enolase; they can be either of open or of closed type and usually occur widely scattered as single cells. Three kinds of endocrine cells were observed both in the normal gland and in the hyperplastic parenchyma. In the by far most prevalent type serotonin was found to co-exist with a peptide immunohistochemically related to the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). In a more rare type serotonin co-existed immunohistochemically with calcitonin. The third kind of endocrine cells was somatostatin-immunoreactive cells; they were also rather rare. The only difference observed between the normal and hyperplastic parenchyma was an increase in the number of all the three kinds of endocrine cells in the hyperplastic nodules. The endocrine cells could easily be visualized by means of silver-staining techniques, even using conventionally formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens.
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27
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Bucht E, Arver S, Sjöberg HE. Immunoextracted calcitonin from human seminal plasma constitutes different forms. ACTA PHYSIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA 1986; 126:289-93. [PMID: 3705987 DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-1716.1986.tb07816.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Levels of immunoreactive calcitonin (iCT) in human seminal plasma were studied after extraction with immobilized antibodies. Immunoextraction of semen was necessary to abolish the high concentrations of proteolytic enzymes that can interfere in radioimmunoassay (RIA). Since proteolysis occurs already during semen liquefaction, iCT levels and chromatographic properties were compared in extracts from liquefied ejaculates, and samples were the proteolysis was suppressed by immediate dilution of the ejaculates with buffer. The levels in the two groups were 81 +/- 43 pg-equivalents ml-1 seminal plasma (mean +/- SD, n = 6) in liquefied samples and 120 +/- 42 pg-equivalents ml-1 (n = 7) in diluted samples, which is about ten times the iCT levels in extracted blood plasma from healthy males. Extracted liquefied seminal plasma from two vasectomized men contained 93 and 107 pg-equivalents of iCT ml-1 seminal plasma, respectively. Gel chromatography of undiluted semen samples disclosed that iCT was composed of forms larger than monomeric CT, the major part with an approximate molecular weight (MW) of 10,000. Two of the six subjects had a smaller amount of iCT eluting with a MW of about 40,000. In diluted samples, iCT seemed to be more heterogenous with approximate molecular weights ranging from 40,000 to fragments smaller than monomeric CT. In some ejaculates, monomeric CT seemed to be present. Undiluted samples from vasectomized men contained iCT with the same chromatographic pattern as in normal men.
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28
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Arver S, Bucht E, Sjöberg HE. Calcitonin-like immunoreactivity in human milk, longitudinal alterations and divalent cations. ACTA PHYSIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA 1984; 122:461-4. [PMID: 6524392 DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-1716.1984.tb07534.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The concentration of immunoreactive calcitonin (iCT) in human milk was 10-40 times the serum level. Thus in milk samples collected from 29 mothers within one week and from 46 mothers three months post partum the levels of iCT were respectively 2.46 +/- 0.99 ng/ml (mean +/- SD) and 0.58 +/- 0.08 ng/ml. Eight of the 29 mothers delivered milk at two occasions, 1-2 and 4-6 days after delivery. There was a significant decline of iCT with about 20% during this period. One mother delivered milk for two months. During the first week after delivery the iCT decreased from 1.4 to 0.5 ng/ml and after that the iCT content remained rather constant. The level of ionized calcium (Ca++) was correlated to iCT the first week post partum (r = 0.72 p less than 0.01) but not in milk samples obtained after three months. The concentration of magnesium was weakly correlated to iCT during the first week post partum (r = 0.37 p less than 0.05). There was no correlation between iCT and the total calcium level nor to the concentration of zinc. The high concentration of iCT in milk compared to serum suggests a local production of iCT within the mammary gland or a specific transport and concentration mechanism.
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29
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Gnessi L, Silvestroni L, Fabbri A, Moretti C, Panerai AE, Bonifacio V, Fraioli F. Salmon calcitonin inhibits human sperm motility in vitro. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1984; 125:199-204. [PMID: 6508795 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-291x(84)80354-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
We have evaluated by a stroboscopic technique the in vitro effect of salmon calcitonin and human calcitonin on the motility of human migrated spermatozoa. We report here that human calcitonin is uneffective while salmon calcitonin is a potent inhibitor of the sperm motility. This salmon calcitonin action is abolished by the preincubation of the peptide with an anti-salmon calcitonin antiserum, demonstrating the specificity of the effect. In addition, we provide evidence that the release of intracellular calcium represents a necessary step for the action of the peptide. In fact, the salmon calcitonin effect is prevented in a dose-dependent way by dantrolene sodium which inhibits the release of calcium from intracellular stores while the calcium channel blocker verapamil is unefficacious. These results suggest a potential role for calcitonin in regulating human sperm motility.
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Balerna M, Colpi GM, Campana A, Roveda L, Tommasini-Degna A, Zanollo A. High-resolution protein patterns of human expressed prostatic secretion: a new tool for the diagnosis of prostatitis. ARCHIVES OF ANDROLOGY 1982; 8:97-105. [PMID: 7073394 DOI: 10.3109/01485018208987025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Expressed prostatic secretions (EPS) obtained from 62 infertile and urological patients have been analyzed for their protein content by sodium dodecylsulfate electrophoresis and isoelectrofocusing. Independent cytological and bacteriological screening on the same EPS samples was carried out to detect prostatic inflammation. EPS from both urological and infertile patients without inflammation had simple and characteristic protein patterns. Important qualitative and quantitative differences in the protein composition of EPS from patients with severe dysspermia or prostatic inflammation were found. The comparison of EPS protein patterns with those of seminal plasma obtained from the same patients led to the detection of a characteristic group of low-molecular-weight bands that were not of prostatic origin.
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