The prostate gland is a multiple tubule-like structure in the male reproductive system, and is regulated by androgen. Repeated ablation and administration of testosterone results in cycles of prostate regression and regeneration, implying the existence of tissue stem cells. The two major cell types in the prostate epithelium are basal cells and secretory luminal cells. In vivo genetic lineage-tracing studies have identified luminal cells that express the transcription factor Nkx3.1 and rare basal cells in the regressed prostate in mediating organ regeneration. We are investigating the cellular lineage relationship and the molecular signalings involved in these processes.
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