Prostasomes: Current concepts

BACKGROUND. Prostasomes are membranous vesicles secreted by prostate gland, and they contain large amounts of cholesterol, sphingomyelin, calcium, and several enzymes. Prostasomes are involved in a number of biological functi ons. At ejaculation, these prostasomes are expelled with prostate secretion s and are to be found in the seminal plasma as seminal prostasomes, which f acilitate sperm function in various ways. METHODS. In this review, we discuss the structural and functional role of p rostasomes, the various enzyme systems associated with these vesicles, and the biological role prostasomes play in male reproduction. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS. Prostasomes are pluripotent and well-organized org anelles secreted by the prostate gland. Prostasomes are ascribed to have ma ny physiologiocal functions, the primary function being enhancement of sper m capacity. The several enzyme systems, small signaling molecules, and neur oendocrine markers associated with prostasomes reveal the complex nature of these vesicles in regulating sperm viability and vitality. The functional significance of these molecules that regulate complex pathways in these sma ll vesicles is still a matter of dogma. Critical evaluation of the biologic al processes associated with prostasomes might be helpful in modeling new c ontraceptive agents, improving the techniques of in vitro fertilization, an d in furthering our understanding and treatment of male factor infertility. Prostate 43:169-174, 2000. (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.