CHANGES IN THE SIALIC ACID CONTENT OF THE ACCESSORY GLANDS OF THE MALE RAT

Abstract

SUMMARY Sialic acid is secreted by the testis, epididymis, ductus deferens and Cowper's gland of the male albino rat. Castration results in a considerable reduction in the sialic acid content of these organs. Androgen administration to castrated rats elevates the sialic acid levels in Cowper's gland to control values, while that of the other organs is only partially restored. This is probably due to the presence of spermatozoa in the epididymis in the control animals and is supported by the decreased values of sialic acid in animals with ligatures. The physiological integrity of the epididymal canal and Cowper's gland is thus dependent on the circulating levels of androgen.