Production and exocrine secretion of LHRH-like material by the male rat reproductive tract

Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH)-like immunoreactivity was localized in the male reproductive system of the rat. Epithelial cells of the epididymus, seminal vesicles and coagulation gland showed a strong reaction to anti-LHRH serum. Also the epithelia of the ductus deferens and the prostate gland appeared to be immunoreactive, albeit to a lesser extent. The LHRH-like substances are most likely secreted into the male tract, as can be concluded from the observation that the secretion product in the lumina of the seminal vesicles, coagulation gland and prostate gland was also immunopositive. The functional significance of these phenomena is discussed. No immunostaining was obtained with antisera to FSH, LH or beta-hCG.