Overexpression of aromatase in transgenic male mice results in the induction of gynecomastia and other biochemical changes in mammary glands

Our previous studies have shown that overexpression of aromatase in mammary glands results in the induction of hyperplastic and dysplastic changes in Female transgenic mice. In this study we show that overexpression of aromatase in male transgenic mice results in increased mammary growth and histopathological changes similar to gynecomastia. Increased estrogenic activity also results in an increase in estrogen and progesterone receptor expression in the mammary glands of transgenic males as compared to the nontransgenic males, as well as an increase in the expression of various genes involved in cell cycle and cell proliferation. We have also observed an increase in certain growth factors, such as bFGF and TGF beta. as a result of aromatase overexpression in the male transgenic mammary glands. In order to obtain a better understanding of the biological significance of gynecomastia, a reliable model is necessary to explain the mechanisms and correlations associated with human cancers. This model, can potentially serve as a predictable and useful tool for studying gynecomastia, hormonal carcinogenesis and action of other carcinogens on hormone induced cancers. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.