Cytochemical and ultrastructural aspects of human seminal vesicles
Avila, R.E.; Samar, M.E.; de Fabro, S.P.
Archivos Espanoles de Urologia 40(4): 229-233
1987
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-0614 PMID: 3632049 Document Number: 289030
The relation between the human seminal vesicles function and the spermatozoo capacitation is not clear. In the present work a cytochemical and ultrastructural study of these organs was performed to correlate the epithelial cells characteristics and their function. The mucosubstances analysis (PAS, Alcian blue at pH 2.5 and 1.0, Toluidine blue) demonstrated a strong predominance of glycoproteins in cytoplasmic granules in the apex of the epithelial cells and a thick coat on the superficial plasma membrane. The glycosaminoglycans appeared joined to the glycoproteins. Both components were first in the cytoplasm and later were secreted and occupied the lumen. Rest of cells were observed in the lumen. The electron microscopy showed the presence of columnar cells associated with junctional complexes and hemidesmosomes localized in the basement membrane. Scarce lysosomes with different stages of formation appeared and numerous pynocitic vesicles were frequent observed. The basement plasma membrane had deep infolding. Many cells were full of lipid droplets and secretion granules which fused themselves and later the cells fell down, disgregated, forming part of luminal content. We postulated that some cells of the epithelium are involved in a holocrine type of secretion and others are relationed with the selective absorption of substances. Both processes would modify the characteristics of the semen, as was postulated for others species, and condition the fecundation capacity of the semen.