IMMUNOLOCALIZATION OF OXYTOCIN RECEPTORS (OTR) IN TESTICLE AND EPIDIDYMIDES: YOUNG VERSUS ADULT DOGS

immunostaining was observed in the smooth muscle cells. No differences in OTR expression was observed when comparing young and adult dogs, demonstrating that young dogs already express these receptors in the surface of these cells. Our results agree with previous studies data that suggest that oxytocin may play a role in stimulating contractility of the seminiferous tubules and epididymis. Also, oxytocin may act as o modulator of androgen levels in these tissues by stimulating the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Conclusion: Our results indicate that OTR may be present in the testes and epididymides of dogs independently of age, which should be considered when studying the use of male germ cells even before puberty.