Seasonal morphophysiological variations in the prostatic complex of the Tarabul's gerbil (Gerbillus tarabuli).

Abstract

Gerbillus tarabuli is a nocturnal Saharan rodent which has an annual reproductive cycle characterized by the reproductive activity in spring and a long phase of sexual quiescence in other seasons. We describe the morphology and hormonal regulation of the prostatic complex of this rodent in the two periods, based on anatomical, histological, morphometric, and immunohistochemical analyses. The organisation of this prostatic complex is similar to that reported for Meriones unguiculatus, but different from the prostate of Psammomys obesus, the rat, and the mouse. In addition to the anterior lobes, ventral lobes, and dorsal lobes, the prostatic complex of Gerbillus tarabuli, also includes dorsolateral lobe. Each lobe is composed of a fibro-muscular stroma surrounding a glandular epithelium. Dorsolateral lobes are easily distinguishable by their big volume. The prostate grows and regresses cyclically throughout the year. During the resting season, ventral lobes and anterior lobes showed atrophy, with a significant decrease in both epithelial height and supranuclear area size, and a strong thickening of the fibro-muscular compartment. In dorsal lobes, the epithelial and stromal compartments atrophied and regenerated simultaneously, whereas in dorsolateral lobe the thickness of the epithelium, the supranuclear zone and the stroma increased during resting period. Furthermore, seasonal variations were observed in the distribution and expression of both androgen receptors, and estrogens receptors. Expression patterns of all receptors were lobe-specific. In conclusion, both androgens and estrogens are involved in the homeostasis and regulation of the prostate in Gerbillus tarabuli. Dorsolateral lobe seems to be controlled by a different mechanism than other lobes.