Development of a new in vitro model for the study of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Abstract

Background: The search for novel agents for the treatment of the lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is dependent on an increased understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. Unfortunately, in vitro and animal models have been of limited value.

Methods: This article describes a novel model system in which the interactions of the stromal and epithelial components of the prostate gland can be determined.

Results: The coculture system provides a simple model of the cellular interactions occurring in the adult human prostate.

Conclusions: This coculture system could potentially be used to determine the precise molecular site of action of agents such as terazosin on prostatic apoptosis.