Characterization of a lymph node within the mouse prostate: Detailed analysis using whole mount histology.

BACKGROUND

Due to the prevalence of prostate disease, there is a growing interest in the immunobiology of the prostate and its contribution to such pathologies. Further study is needed to fully characterize immune responses within the prostate.

METHODS

Mouse ventral prostates were removed and analyzed using conventional immunohistochemistry, or by a novel whole mount technique, which allows the visualization of complete structures within the prostate.

RESULTS

A lymphoid structure was detected within the base of the mouse ventral prostate. Whole mount and cryostat sections revealed an organized arrangement of lymphocytes, along with dendritic cells interspersed throughout the node. It possessed a rich network of lymph node specific high endothelial venules (HEVs) and adjoining lymphatics containing immune cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate the presence of a lymphoid structure within the base of the mouse ventral prostate possessing traits characteristic of an organized peripheral lymph node.