Male Accessory Reproductive Organs Research Articles

Assessment of copper nanoparticlestreatment on male accessory reproductive organs and epididymis in a mouse model: A morphological and biochemical study.

Although the usage of nanoparticles has expanded substantially in recent years, and it causes the detrimental effect on the various organs. CuNPs are widely used in commercial applications. There has been minimal investigation into the possibly harmful effects of CuNPs on the accessory reproductive organs. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of CuNPs on the male reproductive organs like epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicle and prostate of mice. The mice were exposed orally to CuNPs at three doses 10, 100, and 200 mg/kg for 70 days. Our results showed that the organs index of only vas deferens and prostate reduced at 200 mg/kg group compared to the control. However, the histological study showed degenerative changes in the epididymis at higher doses like distortion in the tubules. The sperm parameters were also decreased in the 200 mg/kg CuNPs group. The vas deferens in 100 and 200 mg/kg treatment groups exhibited detachment of luminal epithelium and with a few or no spermatozoa in the higher dose group. The seminal vesicle and prostate also showed degenerative changes like atrophy, hyperplasia, and scant secretary materials. Furthermore, CuNPs also increased the oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant enzymes in vas deferens and seminal vesicles at higher dose. Caput epididymis showed decreased GPx enzymes in all the groups. However, MDA and GPx in corpus, cauda, and prostate did not show any significant variations among all the groups. In conclusion, our results suggest that CuNPs can manifest the detrimental effect of the male accessory organs and epididymis in a dose and tissue dependent manner. Since, detrimental effects were observed only at higher dose, thus, uses of CuNPs would be safe for reproductive organs at lower dose, even for the prolonged duration.

Monosodium Glutamate Induced Oxidative Stress in Accessory Reproductive Organs of Male Sprague-Dawley Rats

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is widely used as a food additive but its excessive intake leads to oxidative stress of several organs. However, the oxidative effect of MSG on male accessory reproductive organs remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of MSG on the status of oxidative stress and morphological alterations in the male accessory reproductive organs such as epididymis, prostate glands and seminal vesicle of Sprague-Dawley rats. A total of 24 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups with 8 rats per group. Control group received distilled water (1 ml/kg) while MSG60 and MSG120 received 60 mg/kg and 120 mg/kg of MSG, respectively. All the substances were administered via force feed oral for 28 consecutive days. At the end of the study, the rats were sacrificed to obtain the accessory organs for biochemical analysis and histological observations. The SOD activity in the epididymis showed a significant increase in MSG60 and MSG120 compared to control (p < 0.05). The GSH levels in the epididymis of MSG 120 showed a significant reduction (p <0.05) compared to the control group. The levels of MDA and PC in the epididymis and prostate gland of MSG60 and MSG120 showed a significant increased (p <0.05) compared to the control group. Histological alterations were found in the epididymis and prostate gland of MSG treated rats. In conclusion, MSG at both doses induced oxidative stress in the epididymis and prostate gland of experimental rats. DOI : http://dx.doi.org./10.17576/JSKM-2018-10

Identification of microRNAs predominately derived from testis and epididymis in human seminal plasma

ObjectivesAiming to develop potential noninvasive biomarkers for male infertility, the present study is designed to identify cell-free seminal piRNAs (PIWI-interacting RNA), and microRNAs predominately derived from testis and epididymis in human semen, which is secreted from the male accessory reproductive organs. Design and methodsThe ejaculate of successfully vasectomized men does not contain any secretion from the testis or epididymis. We screened cell-free seminal piRNAs, and microRNAs that predominately derived from testis/epididymis by comparing Solexa sequencing of seminal RNA of normozoospermic donors and vasectomized men, followed by quantitative PCR validation in individuals. ResultsTotally 84 seminal microRNAs exhibited levels >4-fold higher in normozoospermic donors than in vasectomized men. Subsequent quantitative PCR validation in individuals confirmed 61 microRNAs predominately secreted from testis/epididymis. Of these miRNAs, the lowest level in normozoospermic donors is ≥2-fold (24 miRNAs) or 0–2-fold (37 miRNAs) more than the highest level in vasectomized men. Interestingly, 28 microRNAs, which contain 5 microRNA clusters (18 microRNAs), reside on the X-chromosome. Some microRNAs have been shown or predicted to target important genes in spermatogenesis or sperm maturation. At least 995 seminal piRNAs were identified in normozoospermic donors while were absent in vasectomized men. ConclusionsThe present study identified cell-free seminal piRNAs, and microRNAs that predominately derived from testis and epididymis. These small noncoding RNAs might be useful noninvasive epigenetic markers for human male infertility researches on revealing the etiology and physiopathological status of impaired sperm production and maturation.

A sex-specific transcription factor controls male identity in a simultaneous hermaphrodite

Evolutionary transitions between hermaphroditic and dioecious reproductive states are found in many groups of animals. To understand such transitions, it is important to characterize diverse modes of sex determination utilized by metazoans. Currently, little is known about how simultaneous hermaphrodites specify and maintain male and female organs in a single individual. Here we show that a sex-specific gene, Smed-dmd-1 encoding a predicted doublesex/male-abnormal-3 (DM) domain transcription factor, is required for specification of male germ cells in a simultaneous hermaphrodite, the planarian Schmidtea mediterranea. dmd-1 has a male-specific role in the maintenance and regeneration of the testes and male accessory reproductive organs. In addition, a homologue of dmd-1 exhibits male-specific expression in Schistosoma mansoni, a derived, dioecious flatworm. These results demonstrate conservation of the role of DM domain genes in sexual development in lophotrochozoans and suggest one means by which modulation of sex-specific pathways can drive the transition from hermaphroditism to dioecy.

Histological changes in male accessory reproductive organs in rats exposed to cigarette smoke and the protective effect of honey supplementation

The effect of cigarette smoke (CS) on histology of male accessory reproductive organs and the possible protective effect of honey supplementation in rats were investigated in this study. Rats received distilled water, honey, CS exposure or honey plus CS exposure. Honey (1.2 g/kg body weight/day) was administered by gavage and CS exposure (3 times per day) was done in a chamber for 13 weeks. CS exposure significantly increased relative weight of epididymis and ventral prostate. There were also significantly increased number of clear cells and epithelial height of cauda epididymis as well as severe interstitial oedema and decreased epithelial height of prostate gland. However, with the supplementation of honey, these histological changes were significantly reversed suggesting the protective effect of honey against the toxic effect of CS on male accessory reproductive organs in rats.

Morphometric Examination for Development of Reproductive Organs in Male Cynomolgus Monkeys

We previously reported on a histological classification of cynomolgus monkey testis into six grades (1, immature; 2, prepuberty; 3, onset of puberty; 4, puberty; 5, early adult; 6, adult) based on spermatogenesis development. In this investigation, the accessory reproductive organs from the same animals underwent histomorphometric examination, in addition to being examined histologically and weighed, to evaluate relationships between these parameters and the six grades. Seminiferous tubule diameter increased corresponding to the testicular maturity grade and was notably increased at grade 6. Beginning from grade 3, increases in the areas of the ductus epididymis were noted, and reserved sperm was visible in the lumen. In the prostate, the glandular lumen area per unit area showed an increase beginning from grade 3 but no clear differences between grades 4 and 6; advanced development of epithelial height was observed at grade 6. In the seminal vesicle, development of the epithelial cell layer was markedly increased at grade 6. It was concluded that development of the male accessory reproductive organs began after reserved sperm was observed in the lumen of the ductus epididymis (grade 3) and that these organs were developed notably when the testis reached sexual maturity (grade 6).

Molecular markers to characterize the hermaphroditic reproductive system of the planarian Schmidtea mediterranea

BackgroundThe freshwater planarian Schmidtea mediterranea exhibits two distinct reproductive modes. Individuals of the sexual strain are cross-fertilizing hermaphrodites with reproductive organs that develop post-embryonically. By contrast, individuals of the asexual strain reproduce exclusively by transverse fission and fail to develop reproductive organs. These different reproductive strains are associated with distinct karyotypes, making S. mediterranea a useful model for studying germline development and sexual differentiation.ResultsTo identify genes expressed differentially between these strains, we performed microarray analyses and identified >800 genes that were upregulated in the sexual planarian. From these, we characterized 24 genes by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), revealing their expression in male germ cells or accessory reproductive organs. To identify additional markers of the planarian reproductive system, we also used immuno- and fluorescent lectin staining, identifying several antibodies and lectins that labeled structures associated with reproductive organs.ConclusionsCollectively, these cell-type specific markers will enable future efforts to characterize genes that are important for reproductive development in the planarian.

310 SEASON INFLUENCE UPON SEMINAL PLASMA PROTEINS IN BROWN SWISS BULLS

Seminal plasma is a complex of secretions of the male accessory reproductive organs and appears to exert important effects on sperm function (Shivaji et al. 1990 Proteins of Seminal Plasma, Wiley, New York, NY, USA). The protein quality of the seminal plasma may affect positively the bulls’fertility (Killiam et al. 1993 Biol. Reprod. 49, 1202-1207). Peptides of 55 and 66 kDa were present in bulls with excellent spermatic conditions for example motility and vigor. On the other hand, 16- and 36-kDa peptides were observed with unfavorable spermatic conditions (Chacur et al. 2009 Anim. Reprod. 6, 339). The objective was to determine the influence of season on seminal plasma proteins in Brown Swiss bulls. Semen from 33 Brown Swiss bulls 24 months of age was collected by electroejaculation during winter (from June to August) and summer (from December to February) in the southern hemisphere in 2008. Semen samples were collected with 14-day intervals totalizing 196 ejaculates. Samples of semen were centrifuged (1500g/15 min) and the seminal plasma was conditioned in cryotubes and stored at -20°C until further processing. Proteins were extracted from 200 μL of each sample in 2 mL of extraction buffer composed of 0.625 M Tris-HCl, at pH 6.8, in 2% SDS, 5% fi-mercaptoethanol, and 20% of glycerol. Percentages of different plasma proteins by season were statistically compared by the chi-square test with significance level at P &lt; 0.05). Proteins were quantified according to Bradford (1976 Anal. Biochem. 72, 248-254) and electrophoresis was performed according to Laemmili (1970 Nature 227, 680-685). Gels were fixed with isopropanol: acetic acid: water (4:1:5 v/v) for 30 minutes and stained in the same solution with 2% of Coomassie Blue R250. In 26 bulls, the absence of high molecular weight (HMW; 55 kDa, 66 kDa, and 80 kDa) proteins was found in the summer. There was a significant increase (P &lt; 0.05) in total spermatic defects, acrosome defects, and distal cytoplasmatic droplets in these bulls. The 40-kDa protein that reflected low fertility was observed in 10 bulls in the summer with semen quality decreases. The 11 bulls showed presence of HMW (55 kDa) in the winter. In 11 bulls, HMW (55 kDa, 66 kDa, or 80 kDa) proteins were present with a satisfactory semen condition according to Killiam et al. (1993 Biol. Reprod. 49, 1202-1207). In conclusion, the seasons of the year may influence the presence of proteins in seminal plasma. There was a direct relationship of the season with seminal plasma proteins. The presence of the proteins of 20 kDa, 55 kDa, 66 kDa, and 80 kDa suggested an increase of the semen quality during the winter. UNOESTE and Bartira Farm.

Major proteins of boar seminal plasma as a tool for biotechnological preservation of spermatozoa

Boar seminal plasma is a complex mixture of secretions from the testes, epididymides, and the male accessory reproductive organs which bathe the spermatozoa at ejaculation. The seminal plasma contains factors, mostly proteins, which influence the spermatozoa, the female genital tract, and the ovum. In boars, most of the proteins belong to the spermadhesin family and bind to the sperm surface. Spermadhesins are multifunctional proteins with a wide range of ligand-binding abilities to heparin, phospholipids, protease inhibitors and carbohydrates; the family can be roughly divided into heparin-binding (AQN-1, AQN-3, AWN) and non-heparin-binding spermadhesins (PSP-I/PSP-II heterodimer). These proteins have various effects promoting or inhibiting sperm functions including motility, oviduct binding, zona binding/penetration, and ultimately fertilization. The complexity of the environmental signals that influence these actions have implications for the uses of these proteins in vivo and in vitro, and may lead to uses in improving sperm storage.

A broad-spectrum organophosphate pesticide O, O-dimethyl O-4-nitrophenyl phosphorothioate (methyl parathion) adversely affects the structure and function of male accessory reproductive organs in the rat

Methyl parathion (MP) is an organophosphate pesticide used in agriculture, but also illegally used to spray homes and businesses to control insects. The present study was designed to investigate adverse effects of MP on accessory reproductive organs. Male Wistar rats aged 13–14 weeks were treated and sacrificed as follows. Experiment 1: 0.0 (water vehicle), 1.75, 3.5 or 7 mg/kg (i.p.) for 5 days and sacrificed on day 14; experiment 2: 0.0, 0.5 or 1 mg/kg (i.p.) for 12 days and sacrificed on day 130; experiment 3: 0.0, 0.5 or 1 mg/kg (i.p.) for 12 days and sacrificed on day 77; experiment 4: 0.0, 0.75 or 1.5 mg/kg (i.p.) for 25 days and sacrificed on day 17 and experiment 5: 0.0 or 3.5 mg/kg (p.o.) for 25 days and sacrificed on day 17, after the last exposure. The accessory reproductive organs were removed, weighed and processed for histopathological analysis. Structural qualitative changes such as epithelial cell morphology and luminal observations were carried out for each organ in all experiments. Epididymis of one side was homogenized and biochemical estimations of acid phosphatase (ACP), cholesterol, total protein, uric acid, and Vitamin C were conducted by calorimetric methods in experiments 4 and 5. In experiment 1 the organ weights did not change; in experiment 2, the epididymal weight increased ( P < 0.001); in experiment 3, the weights of ductus deferens decreased at 1 mg/kg and that of seminal vesicle decreased at both dose-levels ( P < 0.001). In experiments 4 and 5, weights of epididymis and prostate decreased, whereas in experiment 5, weights of ductus deferens and seminal vesicle increased ( P < 0.05–0.001). The sperm density was normal in control, moderately decreased in experiment 1 at 3.5 and 7 mg/kg; in experiment 2 at 1 mg/kg, and in experiment 5 at 3.5 mg/kg, and severely decreased in experiment 3 at 1 mg/kg and in experiment 4 at both dose-levels. The epithelial necrosis and nuclear pyknosis were seen in experiments 1, 3, 4 and 5, whereas nuclear degeneration was seen in experiment 1 and 4 and germ cells in the lumina of epididymis were seen in experiment 4. The nuclear pyknosis in the ductus deferens was seen in all experiments, except at 1.75 mg/kg in experiment 1 and at 0.5 mg/kg in experiment 3. Brush border disruption in the ductus deferens was seen in experiments 1 and 4; sperms were seen in the lumen in experiment 1 at 7 mg/kg, and in experiments 4 and 5. The vacuoles in the epithelium were seen in experiments 1 and 4 and immature germ cells were seen in the lumen in experiment 4. The ACP and Vitamin C levels decreased in experiment 4 at both dose-levels, and in experiment 5 all biochemical parameters tested found decreased ( P < 0.01–0.001). The present results indicate that MP affects the structure and function of accessory reproductive organs in the rat.

Feasibility and potential gains of enhancing the subacute rat study protocol (OECD test guideline no. 407) by additional parameters selected to determine endocrine modulation. A pre-validation study to determine endocrine-mediated effects of the antiandrogenic drug flutamide.

Groups of five male and five female Wistar rats were treated by gavage with 0, 1, 10, and 100 mg flutamide/kg body weight for at least 28 days to investigate whether proposed enhancements to the current subacute rodent OECD test guideline no. 407 could be included into the testing routine, which of the current and/or additional parameters would detect endocrine-mediated effects of flutamide reliably and sensitively, and to provide information on intra-laboratory variability. Two identical studies were performed concurrently. The enhanced protocol requests the additional determination of the specific hormones triiodothyronine, thyroxine, thyroid stimulating hormone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, prolactin, testosterone, corticosterone; of oestrus cyclicity and necropsy of all females in the dioestrus stage; of the number of homogenization-resistant testicular spermatids and the number, motility, viability, and morphology of cauda epididymal spermatozoa; of additional organ weights (pituitary, ovaries, uterus, thyroid, male accessory reproductive organs); and of the histopathology of additional organs (pituitary, epididymides, coagulation glands, pancreas, vagina). From a technical standpoint, it was possible to conduct a study according to the enhanced protocol, however, with substantial additional effort, an increase in costs by some 67%, and logistic problems. In line with the specific pharmacological effect of flutamide, treatment-related changes were mainly found in male rats, while females were hardly affected by 100 mg/kg. In male rats, 100 mg/kg was the maximal tolerated dose resulting in reduced body weight gain, but no or little other effects on clinical, haematological, clinico-chemical, or behavioral parameters, and 1 mg/kg was the no-observed-adverse-effect level. Antagonism of peripheral androgen receptors by flutamide resulted in decreased relative organ weights of male accessory reproductive organs, changes that were reliably detected in both studies at 100 mg/kg, but only in one of both studies at 10 mg/kg. Corresponding histopathological changes were also detected reliably at 100 mg/kg. Antagonism of central androgen receptors by flutamide increased LH and FSH levels. LH stimulation of testicular Leydig cells in turn increased testosterone and estradiol levels. Again, all these changes were detected reliably at 100 mg/kg, but only in one of both studies at 10 mg/kg. Corresponding histopathological alterations (increase of LH- and FSH-secreting cells, Leydig cell hypertrophy) were detected reliably and sensitively at 10 mg/kg. Studies on liver enzymes performed outside the scope of the enhanced protocol showed that flutamide at 100 mg/kg generally induced hepatic enzyme activities, but decreased the activity of the sex-specific testosterone-dependent liver enzyme CYP2C11 in male rats. The laboratory methods employed yielded reliable results, i.e., 93.6% of the quantitative measurements obtained in both studies were in agreement. Doubling the animal number from five to ten per sex and dose does not increase the sensitivity of detection of endocrine-mediated effects above the level already provided by histopathological examination of groups of five animals. Some of the proposed enhancements evaluated (additional organgravimetry and histopathology) were helpful in detecting the endocrine-mediated effects of flutamide reliably, while others did not contribute towards this aim (spermatology resulted in doubtful effects, female cyclicity was not affected, hormone determinations provided mechanistic information). Ongoing testing according to the revised version of the enhanced OECD test guideline no. 407 protocol and using ten compounds interfering with the endocrine system by different mechanisms will result in the identification of the most appropriate enhancements.

Chronic administration of 4-tert-octylphenol to adult male rats causes shrinkage of the testes and male accessory sex organs, disrupts spermatogenesis, and increases the incidence of sperm deformities.

The environmental toxicant 4-tert-octylphenol (OP) has been shown to exert estrogenic effects on mammalian cells in culture. Recent findings from our laboratories demonstrate clearly that OP administration disrupts reproductive hormone secretion in the adult male rat, quite likely as a result of estrogenic action. In the present study, we investigated the impact of these or other OP-induced changes on male reproductive tissues. Adult male rats were injected with OP (20 or 80 mg) or estradiol valerate (EV; 0.8 or 8 microg) s.c. in oil three times a week for either 1 or 2 mo. We found that an 80-mg dosage of OP for 2 mo or an 8-microg dosage of EV for 1 or 2 mo greatly reduced sperm numbers and adversely influenced the sizes, weights, and histological structures of the testes, epididymides, ventral prostate glands, seminal vesicles, and coagulating glands. The 80-mg dosage of OP for 1 mo reduced epididymal tubule size to a lesser extent than after 2 mo of treatment. Otherwise, treatment with 80 mg OP for 1 mo, 20 mg OP for 1 or 2 mo, or 0.8 microg EV for 1 mo had little or no effect on the histology of the tissues we examined. Additional evaluation of sperm morphology revealed marked increases in the proportions of head and tail abnormalities from animals that had received 80 mg of OP or 8 microg of EV for 1 mo and 20 mg of OP for 2 mo. The head abnormalities consisted mainly of pin heads, detached heads, and the absence of hooks, while tail abnormalities included mainly broken, coiled, and bent tails. Our results clearly demonstrate that OP can severely reduce the size and/or function of all of the male gametogenic and accessory reproductive organs studied. Moreover, the similarity of these cell and tissue changes between rats treated with OP and those treated with EV further suggests that OP may exert its action in an estrogenic-like manner.

Effects of melatonin on reproductive and accessory reproductive organs in male rats.

Effects of daily injections of melatonin on male rat reproductive and accessory reproductive organs were studied. The weight of the prostate was decreased by treatment with a high dose of melatonin (8.0 mg/kg, s.c., injection time; 17:00) once daily for 30 d. The weights of the other accessory reproductive organs and testes were not influenced by melatonin. Lower doses (0.8, 2.4, 4.8 mg/kg), had no effect. After the successive treatment with melatonin (8.0 mg/kg), the testosterone levels in testes and in serum and the conversion rate of [3H]testosterone to [3H]dihydrotestosterone in the prostate were not influenced. The activity of acid phosphatase and the uptake of [3H]testosterone by the prostate, in contrast, were significantly decreased after the successive treatment with melatonin. These data suggest that melatonin may have a direct inhibitory action on male rat prostate, though only at a high dose.

Topographic recognition of cyclic hydrocarbons and related compounds by receptors for androgens, estrogens, and glucocorticoids

The structural requirements for the interaction of about 80 cyclic hydrocarbons and related compounds with the androgen receptor of rat ventral prostate, the estrogen receptor of human breast tumor MCF-7 cells, and the glucocorticoid receptor of rat liver were examined by comparing their abilities to compete with radioactive hormones for binding to the respective receptors. The results indicate that the receptor-binding affinity of a compound is dependent on its electronic configuration and geometrical similarity to a portion of a natural steroid hormone which can be recognized by local ligand-binding sites in the receptor. For the estrogen receptor, β-phenols are more active than the corresponding α-phenols, whereas nonphenolic compounds are totally inactive. For androgen and glucocorticoid receptors, α-phenols are more active than β-phenols. The androgen receptor can interact stereospecifically with nonoxygenated and nonalkylated cyclic hydrocarbons, such as 10,11-dihydro 5H-dibenzo[a,d] cycloheptene or 9,10-dihydrophenanthrene, which can, in vivo, inhibit the androgendependent growth of the male accessory reproductive organs. The affinities of naphthalene, anthracene, phenanthrene, biphenyl, and adamantane toward glucocorticoid and androgen receptors can be enhanced by acetylation or ethanolization of these ligands. Our results also indicate that, while the hormonal action of a steroid may be dependent on the interaction of a functional group on the hormone with a specific group,on the receptor, the presence of such a group may not be required for the antagonistic activity of a compound that can physically block hormone binding to the receptor. Thus, many small molecules that were hitherto considered to be biologically inert may interact with steroid receptors specifically and affect hormonal activities in vivo.

Influence of estradiol on accessory reproductive organs in the castrated male rat. Effects of bromocriptine and flutamide.

Estradiol partially maintained the weights of the dorsolateral prostate and seminal vesicles in castrated adult male rats. One group of animals received subcutaneous injections of estradiol (0.01 mg/kg) daily, while a second group of animals received estradiol plus bromocriptine (4.0 mg/kg). Changes in weights of accessory reproductive organs were correlated with serum prolactin levels. Estradiol significantly increased serum prolactin levels while concomitant treatment with bromocriptine caused serum prolactin to remain at castrate levels. Bromocriptine slightly decreased, but did not abolish, the effect of estradiol on weights of the dorsolateral prostate and seminal vesicles. To determine if the effect of estradiol was mediated by androgen receptors in the dorsolateral prostate and seminal vesicles, a third group of animals was treated with flutamide. Flutamide, at a dosage (20 mg/kg) that abolished the effects of dihydrotestosterone on the weights of these tissues, produced no alternation of the effects of estradiol. Treatment of animals with a combination of flutamide, bromocriptine, and estradiol did not significantly alter organ weights from the results obtained with bromocriptine and estradiol. Scatchard plot analysis of the effect of estradiol treatment on cytosol binding of estradiol demonstrated increased quantities of estradiol binding in dorsolateral prostate and seminal vesicles which correlated with the changes in weights noted. Although part of the effect of estradiol on regression of male accessory reproductive organs of castrated rats may be mediated by prolactin, the principal effect appears to be a direct action on responsive tissues.

Biology of the Wild Rabbit,Oryctolagus cuniculus, in Southern Sweden. IV. Leydig Cell Activity and Seasonal Development of Two Male Accessory Organs of Reproduction

Seasonal variation in the Leydig cells and of the bulbourethral and prostate glands was studied in wild rabbits in southern Sweden, and the variation was correlated with an earlier description of the annual male fertility cycle. The full development of the testes and accessory reproductive organs in the spring was preceded by a peak in Leydig cell activity in January—February. After a depression around the summer solstice, the Leydig cell activity gradually increased, but spermatogenesis and the activity of the accessory reproductive organs continued to decline until late autumn.

Changes in the adenohypophysis and genital tract of cryptorchid rats: some morphological and pharmacological aspects.

It has been confirmed that cryptorchidism may affect the control mechanism of gonadotrophin secretion. This has been based on morphological aspects of the adenohypophysis of cryptorchid rats which have shown an increase in basophilic and vacuolated basophilic cells, an increase known to be related to the production of gonadotrophin. The morphological alterations observed in the testes, prostates, seminal vesicles and ductus deferentes of these cryptorchid animals, the quiescence and the responses of their seminal vesicles and ductus deferentes to sympathomimetic and parasympathomimetic drugs indicated that these cryptorchid animals may be somewhere between normal and castrated rats, although not equidistant from either. Comparison of wet weights and of occurrence of spontaneous contractions, and determination of drug parameters in seminal vesicles and ductus deferentes taken from normal, castrated or crptorchid rats, suggested that the development and the spontaneous or the pharmacological responses of male accessory organs of reproduction are independent phenomena.

Morphology of the male accessory organs of reproduction of immature fallow deer (Dama dama L.) with particular reference to puberty and antler development.

The accessory organs of reproduction of male fallow deer are fully active for the first time during the animal's second rut, at 16 months of age. Antler pedicles develop at about 9 months, at the same time as the seminiferous tubules show a marked increase in diameter. The accessory organs show an increase in size at approximately 14 months of age when the deer weigh about 45 kg and maturation of the first pair of antlers is occurring. Puberty commences at about 9 months, pauses during the period of active antler growth and recommences at about 14 months, culminating with the appearance of spermatozoa at 16 months of age. Androgenesis precedes spermatogenesis.

Structural and biochemical characteristics of the male accessory organs of reproduction in the hairy-nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons),.

A description is given of the male reproductive tract in the South Australian marsupial, the hairy-nosed wombat,Lasiorhinus latifrons; the study was based mainly on material obtained from animals shot in the field during the period October-December, but a few observations on captive wombats are also reported. The testes, located in a pre-penile scrotum, contained in the region of the ductuli efferentes a characteristic pigment, which occasionally extended as far as the caput epididymidis. The cauda epididymidis was enclosed within a separate pocket formed by the tunica vaginalis. The ductus deferens had no ampulla. The penis, bifid at the tip, was held in an S-bend position by the retractor penis muscles. The male accessory apparatus was of a highly complex type. In addition to the carrot-shaped prostate gland with three clearly discernible portions (anterior, central and posterior), three other pairs of glands were identified, which for the purpose of the present study have been designated as ‘Cowper’s glands’ (A,B, andC) without implying, however, that they are strictly analogous to the Cowper’s gland of eutherian mammals. Chemical examination of the male accessory glands led to the identification of a number of chemical substances, including fructose, sorbitol, glycogen, glucose, inositol, glycerol, citric acid, sialic acid,N-acetylglucosamine andN-acetylgalactosamine. The three most characteristic constituents of the anterior, central and posterior segments of the prostate gland were sorbitol, fructose and glycogen, respectively; the central and posterior segment of the prostate contained also some glucose andN-acetylhexosamine. Citric acid was shown to occur at high concentration in the Cowper’s glandAwhile theCgland was characteristically rich in sialic acid. A description is given of spermatozoa which had been recovered from the urine.

Secretory function of the prostate, seminal vesicle and other male accessory organs of reproduction.

The secretory activity of male accessory organs of reproduction such as the prostate, seminal vesicle, Cowper's gland and similar organs, differs in many ways from that of other secretory organs in the animal body. DEPENDENCE ON ANDROGENS One of the characteristics, which is perhaps most remarkable and in some ways unique, is the specific dependence of the function of organs such as the prostate and seminal vesicle upon the presence of androgenic stimuli. In its extreme form this dependence is clearly reflected in the well documented and much studied set of phenomena of post-castrate involution and testosterone-induced resumption of growth in the accessory organs. Testosterone acts on the male accessory organs directly, without having first to undergo metabolic alteration in the animal body. Convincing proof of such direct action was provided by an experiment recently carried out on bull seminal vesicles in vivo, in which testosterone was injected locally into