Characterization and localization of nitric oxide synthase in the human prostate

To characterize nitric oxide synthase (NOS), which catalyzes nitric oxide (NO) production, in the human prostate using biochemical and immunohistochemical techniques. NOS catalytic assay and NOS immunohistochemistry were performed on histologically verified nonmalignant prostate tissue obtained from...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Urology (Ridgewood, N.J.) N.J.), 1995-03, Vol.45 (3), p.435-439
Main Authors: Burnett, Arthur L., Maguire, Michael P., Chamness, Shelly L., Ricker, Deborah D., Takeda, Masayuki, Lepor, Herbert, Chang, Thomas S.K.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Amino Acid Oxidoreductases - analysis
Biological and medical sciences
Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology
Humans
Male
Mammalian male genital system
Morphology. Physiology
NADPH Dehydrogenase - analysis
Nitric Oxide Synthase
Prostate - chemistry
Prostate - enzymology
Vertebrates: reproduction
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Summary:To characterize nitric oxide synthase (NOS), which catalyzes nitric oxide (NO) production, in the human prostate using biochemical and immunohistochemical techniques. NOS catalytic assay and NOS immunohistochemistry were performed on histologically verified nonmalignant prostate tissue obtained from the peripheral and transition zones of seven radical prostatectomy specimens. Biochemical analysis revealed NOS activity in the human prostate, with a greater amount in the peripheral zone than in the transition zone ( P < 0.01). In both prostate zones, NOS was immunohistochemically localized to nerve fibers and ganglia coursing throughout the smooth musculature of the stroma and to subepithelial nerve plexuses. NOS immunoreactivity was also localized to glandular epithelium. The presence, activity, and distribution of NOS were described in two regions of the human prostate. The present evidence implicates NO in the autonomic innervation and physiology of the human prostate. It is proposed that NO may modulate smooth muscle tone and secretory functions in the human prostate, although functional studies are needed to support these hypotheses.
ISSN:0090-4295
1527-9995
DOI:10.1016/S0090-4295(99)80012-0