Effects of a 5α-reductase inhibitor, finasteride, on the developing prostate and testis of a marsupial

Abstract

This study examines the role of dihydrotestosterone in virilization of the developing male tammar. The onset of prostate differentiation in this marsupial species normally occurs around 25 days postpartum, long after the onset of testicular testosterone production immediately after birth and the appearance of 5α-reductase in the urogenital sinus before day 10. Males treated with the 5α-reductase inhibitor Finasteride had reduced prostatic growth and development, and their testicular structure was disorganized. Exogenous testosterone in males enhanced the development of prostatic buds but also caused damage to the testis structure. Treatment of female tammars with testosterone between days 20..