Expression of sulfotransferase IEI in human prostate as studied by in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry

BACKGROUND. Estrogen is recognized to play a role in the development and function of the prostate. Estrogen sulfotransferase (EST) 1E1 catalyzes the sulfoconjugation of estrogen and is thus involved in the metabolism of estrogen. We have recently shown that EST 1E1 is highly expressed in male mouse reproductive organs, including prostate. It appeared of interest to study the expression of EST I El in human prostate. METHODS. EST 1E1 mRNA and protein expression was evaluated in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) using in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry, respectively. RESULTS. EST 1E1 mRNA and protein were found to be expressed in epithelial cells bordering alveola lumen (luminal cells) as well as stroma cells. CONCLUSION. The enzyme EST may play a physiological role in regulating local estrogen levels in human prostate.