Molecular Human Reproduction, Vol. 8, No. 7, 606-611,
July 2002
© 2002 European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology
Testis and spermatogenesis |
Prolactin receptor expression in human testis and accessory tissues: localization and function
MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, 37 Chalmers Street, Edinburgh EH3 9EW, UK
Experimental studies in animals have established prolactin (PRL) as a progonadal hormone that promotes the function of the testis and reproductive accessory glands. The present study investigated the localization of PRL receptor (PRL-R) expression in the human testis and accessory tissues. Expression of PRL-R was identified in human testis and vas deferens by RT–PCR, and further localized by immunohistochemistry to the Leydig cells and differentiating germ cells of the testis (developmental stages extending from pachytene spermatocytes to elongating spermatids). Positive staining for PRL-R was also clearly evident in the epithelium of vas deferens, epididymis, prostate and seminal vesicles. Functional activation of PRL-R was demonstrated in fresh samples of vas deferens collected at vasectomy by examination of the JAK/STAT (Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription) and MAP (mitogen-activated protein) kinase ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) signalling pathways. Within the vas deferens, PRL induced rapid tyrosine phosphorylation of JAK 2 and STAT 5 (after 10 and 20 min respectively), and tyrosine and threonine phosphorylation of ERK 1 and 2 (after 5 min). The demonstration of function and localization of PRL-R presented here suggests multiple roles for PRL in the human male reproductive tract.
male reproductive tract/prolactin/prolactin receptor/testis
1 To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: g.lincoln{at}hrsu.mrc.ac.uk
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