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The development of the prostate: Do you know how it forms in the embryo?
The prostate is a gland that is physiologically crucial to the male reproductive system. It serves as a switch for the discharge of urine and the ejaculation of semen. All male mammals possess this gland, and the structure, chemical composition, and physiological function of the prostate vary between species. This article will focus on the embryonic development of the prostate and reveal how this key organ is formed.
Development during the embryonic stage
In the developing embryo, there is a depressed structure called the "cloaca" at the rear. Between weeks 4 and 7, this structure divides into the urogenital sinus and the beginning of the anal canal, with the urogenital septum forming in between. The urogenital sinus is further divided into three parts, of which the middle part forms the urethra; the upper part is the widest and eventually develops into the bladder, while the lower part develops according to the biological sex of the embryo.
The development of the prostate originates from the mid-section of the urethra, which is of endodermal origin.
At the end of the third trimester of the embryo, cells from the prostatic portion of the urethra grow processes that expand into the surrounding mesodermal tissue. These urethral epithelial cells differentiate into the glandular epithelium of the prostate, and the corresponding mesodermal tissue differentiates into the connective tissue and smooth muscle of the prostate. Over time, the condensation of mesoderm combines with the urethra and Wolffian ducts to ultimately form the adult prostate gland, which is composed of multiple closely fused glandular and non-glandular glands. Composite organs.
Structure of the prostate
The adult prostate is about the size of a walnut, and its weight usually ranges from 7 to 16 grams, with the average being about 11 grams. The prostate is located in the pelvis, beneath the bladder and surrounding the urethra. The part of the urethra that passes through is called the prostatic urethra and is connected to the two ejaculatory ducts. The internal structures of the prostate are called lobes and regions, and regional classification is often more relied upon. The prostate is usually described as consisting of three to four regions, which aids in identification in histology or medical imaging.
Function of the prostate
One of the main functions of the prostate is to secrete prostatic fluid, which is part of semen and accounts for about 30% of semen. When ejaculation occurs, sperm pass from the vas deferens through the ejaculatory ducts into the urethra and are subsequently excreted. This process is guided by smooth muscle contraction. The secretions of the prostate include proteases, prostatic acid phosphatase, fibrinolytic enzymes, zinc, and prostate-specific antigen, which together make up the main liquid portion of semen.
The alkaline properties of prostatic fluid help neutralize the acidity of the vagina, thereby extending the life of sperm.
In addition, the prostate also plays an important role in the urination process. Its shape changes are driven by a system of smooth muscles along the prostatic urethra, which allows the gland to perform a mechanical switch between urination and ejaculation.
Clinical significance
Prostate diseases including prostatitis, hyperplasia, infection and cancer can affect its normal function. Among those men, prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common problems, caused primarily by an increase in the number of cells and usually occurs in older men. Symptoms may include frequent urination or difficulty in urinary flow, and in severe cases may even cause urinary retention. In contrast, prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among older men. It usually has no obvious symptoms in its early stages and is often monitored for early detection.
Mentions prostate surgery, including prostatectomy, which is often performed to treat localized cancer or prostatic hyperplasia. Types of surgery include open surgery and laparoscopic surgery, usually under general anesthesia. Surgery may not be the best option for some patients, depending on the individual's overall health.
Historically, the prostate was first formally identified by Venetian anatomist Niccolò Massa in 1536.
The development process of the prostate is complex and wonderful, not only involving changes in its structure and function, but also closely related to biological sex hormones. Do you have a deeper understanding of the role of the prostate in your body?
