Role of oxytocin in the contractility of the male reproductive tract: implications for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

This thesis investigated the contractile effect of oxytocin on the prostate and epididymis of rat and human ex vivo using live imaging. While only having a slight effect in most of the epididymis oxytocin evoked a uniquely forceful contractile response in the most distal part of the epididymis. This response was comparable to the one induced by noradrenaline. Oxytocin significantly increased contractions in the human prostate. These results substantiate the physiological involvement of oxytocin in male sexual function. In addition, this thesis provides the first insight into the fine structure of the human prostatic duct system, using several investigative approaches.