Androgen receptor expression in the rat prostate is down-regulated by dietary phytoestrogens

• Main Authors: Handa Robert J (Author), Adlercreutz Herman (Author), Lund Trent D (Author), Munson Daniel J (Author), Lephart Edwin D (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: BMC, 2004-01-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.

Summary

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>It is well established that the growth of the prostate gland is a hormone-dependent phenomenon involving both androgenic and estrogenic control. Proliferation of prostate cells is, at least in part, under control of estrogen receptor beta (ER-beta). Phytoestrogens bind ER-beta with high affinity and therefore may have antiproliferative effects in the prostate.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>The prostates of male Long-Evans rats fed a diet high in phytoestrogens (Phyto-600) or very low levels of phytoestrogens (Phyto-free) were analyzed to determine the impact of dietary phytoestrogens on prostate weight and androgen receptor (AR) expression in the prostate.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Dietary phytoestrogens significantly decreased post-pubertal prostate weight gain in Phyto-600 vs Phyto-free fed males. Additionally, dietary phytoestrogens (Phyto-600) decreased AR expression in the prostate as determined by in situ hybridization.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Soy phytoestrogens, present in diet, alter prostate growth presumably by binding ER-beta and subsequently reducing AR expression within the prostate.</p>

Item Description

10.1186/1477-7827-2-5
1477-7827