[The localization and potential function of androgen receptor mRNA in rat submaxillary].
OBJECTIVE
To study the distribution and potential function of androgen receptor (AR) mRNA and AR in rat submaxillary.


METHODS
In situ hybridization using digoxigenin-labled oligonucleotide probes, cell culture and radio-immunoassay were performed to localize the AR and detect the concentration of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in culturing supernant.


RESULTS
AR mRNA hybridization signals were detected in glandular epithelial cells of serous acinus and epithelial cells in all gland ducts. The signals distributed in cytoplasma of all positive cells with negative nuclei; Administration of testosterone can significantly increase the level of EGF (P < 0.05).


CONCLUSIONS
The rat submaxillary not only is a target organ of androgen but also can product AR by itself. When androgen combined with androgen receptor and can submaxillary function can be infected and can result in the elevation of the level of EGF secreted.
Xu
Qi-Lu
QL
Nankong Official Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, China.
D000818:Animals; D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor / Q000096:biosynthesis; D008297:Male; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000032:analysis*; D051381:Rats; D017207:Rats, Sprague-Dawley; D011944:Receptors, Androgen / Q000235:genetics* / Q000502:physiology*; D013363:Submandibular Gland / Q000378:metabolism*
D012333:RNA, Messenger; D011944:Receptors, Androgen; D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor