Alteration of α1A-adrenoceptor gene expression in the prostate of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Diabetes-associated alterations in prostate alpha(1A)-adrenoceptor (alpha(1A)-AR) gene expression were studied using a streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rat model. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: group I animals were vehicle-treated normal rats; group II consisted of vehicle-treated, STZ-diabetic rats; group III represented insulin-treated, STZ-diabetic rats (0.5 IU/kg three times daily for 4 days), and group IV animals were phlorizin-treated, STZ-diabetic rats (1 mg/kg three times daily for 4 days). The expression of mRNA that encoded protein Of alpha(1A)-AR in the rat prostate was studied using reverse transcription combined with polymerase chain reaction. The alpha(1A)-AR protein expression in the prostate was studied by Western blotting analysis with a polyclonal antiserum. A 2.51 +/- 0.21-fold increase in the mRNA level Of alpha(1A)-AR was observed in the prostate of diabetic rats (n = 8, p < 0.05). Similarly, there was a 2.23 +/- 0.10-fold increase in the alpha(1A)-AR protein level (n = 8, p < 0.05). Both insulin and phlorizin treatments restored the normal levels of mRNA and protein expression. In conclusion, the gene expression Of alpha(1A)-AR is increased in the prostate of diabetic rats. Hyperglycemia plays a major role in this alteration. Copyright (C) 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel.