The ultrastructure of the accessory sex organs of the male rat. 7. The effect of an anti-androgenic compound, SK and F 22340.

The influence of a potent anti-androgenic compound, SK and F 22340, on the ultrastructure of the lateral and ventral prostate and the seminal vesicles of the rat has been studied. After treatment for 18 days there was macroscopic atrophy of the organs with decreased amount of secretory material. There was reduction of the height and width of the epithelial cells and loss of cytoplasm. The most distinct changes were found in the cytoplasm and comprised a quantitative reduction of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and of free ribosomes; the Golgi apparatus was reduced and the number of secretion granules were diminished. All the alterations observed are apparently similar to the changes caused by bilateral orchidectomy.