Prostatic fluid composition and semen quality in dogs with benign prostatic hyperplasia undergoing treatment with osaterone acetate

Abstract

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may alter prostatic fluid biochemical composition causing reduced fertility. Osaterone acetate (OA) is an androgen receptor antagonist marketed for treatment of canine BPH. Little information exists on effects of OA administration on biochemical composition of canine prostatic fluid and its role on fertility. The aim of this research was to study biochemical composition of prostatic fluid and its role on semen quality in dogs with BPH undergoing treatment with OA.Eight intact, 5-11-year-old dogs with benign prostatic hyperplasia were treated orally with OA at a dose of 0.25-0.5 mg/kg once daily for seven days. Prostatic volume, semen evaluation and a biochemical analysis of prostatic fluid were performed on the day before treatment (D0), D60, D120, D180 and D240. A significant reduction (57% and 61%) of prostatic volume was observed at D60 and D120, respectively, and a significant reduction (20%) of normal spermatozoa was observed at D60 coincident with a significant increase of sperm tail defects, which disappeared during the course of the treatment. Prostatic fluid composition did not vary during the OA treatment except for zinc (Zn 2+ ) with a significant increase at D120 and D180 correlated with the return to normal sperm values. In conclusion, canine Zn 2+ prostatic fluid concentrations decrease during development of BPH and return to normal during treatment with OA. Zn 2+ is an important electrolyte for semen quality, suggesting that oral Zn 2+ supplementation might be considered a treatment to improve semen quality.

Effect of theGnRHstimulation test on Canine Prostatic‐Specific Esterase (CPSE)

“…The specific role of CPSE in prostatic conditions is not yet understood but it is known that together with spermatogenesis, its activity is regulated by the concentration of zinc whose availability can be altered in cases of BPH (Ferré‐Dolcet et al, 2022; Mogielnicka‐Brzozowska et al, 2015). In addition, as CPSE production is regulated by testosterone, its reduction and inhibition can be achieved by the use of antiandrogens and surgical castration (Nizanski et al, 2014; Smith, 2008).…”

Effect of drugs on fertility in male dogs: A review

“…Furthermore, it inhibits the activity of 5α‐reductase, decreases dihydrotestosterone content, and nuclear androgen receptor content in the prostate (Nizanski et al, 2014; Takezawa et al, 1992; Tsutsui et al, 2001). During treatment with osaterone acetate a transient decrease in testosterone level and a transient increase in the percentage of abnormal spermatozoa were observed, but the dogs remained fertile and may still be used for mating (Ferré‐Dolcet et al, 2022; Nizanski et al, 2020; Tsutsui et al, 2001).…”

Potential role of oxidative stress in pathogenesis of benign prostatic hyperplasia in male dogs

“…Prostatic fluid constitutes approximately 90% of seminal fluid volume and changes in its composition may affect semen quality (Ferré-Dolcet et al, 2022). The canine prostate consists of two lobes, surrounding the proximal urethra.…”

“…The prostate gland is the only male accessory gland in dogs and is responsible for secreting the prostatic fluid, which aids in both supporting and transporting sperm during ejaculation (Smith, 2008). Prostatic fluid constitutes approximately 90% of seminal fluid volume and changes in its composition may affect semen quality (Ferré‐Dolcet et al., 2022). The canine prostate consists of two lobes, surrounding the proximal urethra.…”