Comparing Various Protocols for Experimental Induction of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia in Albino Wistar Rats
Odirichukwu Ebere Obiageli, Ani Nneka Victoria, Ekere Samuel Okezie*, Okuche Vivian, Raheem Ayobami Kabir and Onu Josephat Edoga
ABSTRACT
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a nonmalignant enlargement of the prostate has been associated with an increased prostate cancer risk. Spontaneous BPH rarely occurs outside humans, dogs, and chimpanzees, limiting suitable animal models. Researchers have developed induction protocols, but conflicting data on optimal duration affects consistency. This study compared protocols for inducing BPH in albino Wistar rats to determine the most effective method. Fifty-four mature male rats (11–12 weeks old) were randomly assigned to six groups (n=9). Group I was the control; groups IV and V underwent bilateral orchiectomy; and Group VI was the sham control. BPH induction used testosterone propionate (6 mg/kg, subcutaneously) in groups II and IV, or testosterone plus oestradiol valerate (0.6 mg/kg, subcutaneously) in groups III and V, every other day for 28 days. Sacrifices occurred on days 14, 21, and 28. Assessments included relative prostate weight, serum prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP), prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and histology. Non-castrated rats showed higher induction rates with both testosterone alone and hormone combination from day 14, with the non-castrated testosterone-oestradiol group (NCTE) producing the strongest response—relative prostate weight 0.26±0.01 vs. 0.16±0.02 in controls (p<0.05). PAP rose in all induction groups and peaked in non-castrated testosterone-treated animals. Histology revealed glandular hyperplasia, enlarged acini, and congestion in intact rats given hormones; castrated rats showed minimal changes. The testosterone-oestradiol protocol in intact rats was most effective, producing significant hyperplasia within 14 days, providing a reliable model for BPH research.
