AJP - Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology, Vol 250, Issue 6 1039-R1046, Copyright © 1986 by American Physiological Society
Effects of aging on prostate growth in beagles
S. J. Berry, D. S. Coffey and L. L. Ewing
Statistical analysis of 82 variables was completed to determine the effects
of aging in the male beagle on prostatic growth and function. The results
indicate that prostate weight increased to 4 yr and then reached a plateau.
Prostatic secretory function (measured as ejaculate volume) followed a
course different than the growth of the gland. Prostatic function increased
and reached a peak at 4 yr and then declined abruptly. Therefore, there is
a separation of the growth and secretory function of the canine prostate
after 4 yr of age. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to
determine the mathematical relationship of these variables in predicting
prostate weight and therefore benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is
correlated with weight. The testicular secretion of testosterone and aging
were paramount factors in predicting prostate weight. There appears to be
an increased sensitivity of the prostate to testosterone secretion with
advancing age.
