Androgen Receptor in Buffalo Testis during prenatal life : An Immunohistochemical study

Abstract

The androgen receptor (AR) plays a crucial role in sexual differentiation and in the masculinization of male reproductive system. Polymer based horse radish peroxidase method was used in the present study to localize the androgen receptor in the developing testis of Indian buffalo. Buffalo foetti from slaughter house / Veterinary clinics were collected and approximate ages were determined by measuring curved crown rump length. The localization of AR was observed in peritubular myoid cells, gonocytes, pre sertoli cells, interstitial cells and few stromal cells. The AR positive cells were counted using image analysis software and percentage positive cells were calculated and data were statistically analyzed. The percentage positive cells at CVRL 7.5 cm, 9.5 cm, 17.5 cm and 19.5 cm were 24.19±1.54, 34.20±3.23, 47.72±6.42 and 47.68±2.28 respectively. The percentage positive cells and the intensity of reaction increased with the increase in foetal age, however positive cells decreased significantly at end term fetal testis (13.6±3.12). The intensity of reaction varied from moderate to strong. Comparatively fewer cells were positive in the rete testis area. The results demonstrated that localization of AR in testis of buffalo foetii is dependent on time and cell type. A clear understanding of androgen receptor expression at the early stages of sexual development will help to understand the sensitivity of buffalo foetii to endocrine modulation by external and internal agents.