A Site Dedicated to Students
The Prostate Gland
Definition
A compound tubuloalveolar exocrine gland of the male reproductive system.
Situation
Situated in the pelvis in front of the rectum and behind the symphysis pubis
Surrounding the first part of the urethra
Can be felt during a rectal exam.
Structure
The ducts are lined with transitional epithelium.
Within the prostate, the urethra coming from the bladder is called the prostatic urethra and merges with the two ejaculatory ducts.
Parts
Anterior lobe
Posterior lobe
Median lobe
Lateral lobes
Function
The main function of the prostate is to store and secrete a clear, slightly alkaline (pH 7.29) fluid
The fluid is one of the constituents of semen.
The prostate also contains some smooth muscles that help ejaculation.
Secretion
The secretion is composed of simple sugars, and are often slightly basic.
proteolytic enzymes, acid phosphatase, and prostate-specific antigen.
The secretions also contain zinc.
Regulation
To work properly, the prostate needs male hormones (androgens)
The main male hormone - testosterone, is produced mainly by the testis.
Copyright © 2008 by Velsundar.K. All rights reserved.
learnvell™ is a trademark of Velsundar.K.
Copyright © 2008 by Velsundar.K. All rights reserved.
learnvell™ is a trademark of Velsundar.K.
Please use the above e-mail address kasiviswanathanvatyahoodotcom for any suggestions for improvements. Please feel free to communicate any of your requirements.
