Physiology and Pharmacology of the Prostate

Abstract

The prostate is a tubulo-alveolar gland and part of both the reproductive and urinary system. The prostate is, next to the seminal vesicales and the bulbourethral glands, part of the male accessory sex glands and produces seminal fluids which, during ejaculation, mix with sperm cells to neutralize the acid vaginal milieu and nourish spermatozoa. Lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH) and prostate cancer (PCa) are the most common prostatic diseases. Knowledge of the anatomy, physiology and receptors of the prostate is crucial for effective treatment of LUTS/BPH and PCa.