Macrophage migration inhibitory factor in the human prostate: identification and immunocytochemical localization

BACKGROUND: Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a lymphokine originally identified for its capacity to inhibit the random migration of macrophages. Recent data have further extended knowledge of the physiological role of this protein, showing that MIF is produced by several human organs and tissues. The present study was intended to evaluate the expression and tissutal localization of MIF in the human prostate. METHODS: Prostate tissues were obtained from patients undergoing surgical adenomectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia and were analyzed by Western blot, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and immunoelectron microscopy. RESULTS. The presence of both MIF protein and mRNA was demonstrated in the prostate. Immunocytochemical studies localized MIF protein in the secretory luminal epithelial and basal layer cells. CONCLUSIONS: The present study demonstrated that the human prostate is a site of MIF synthesis. Macrophages populate the human prostate and represent an important mechanism of defense of integrity and functionality of the gland. It is speculated that MIF might play a role in preserving prostate physiological activity by maintaining its macrophage population.