Cathepsin D is a cysteine endopeptidase that belongs to the lysosomal enzyme
family. The aim of the study was to evaluate the enzyme immunoexpression and
activity in selected male genital organs in mature Wistar rats. The activity of
cathepsin D was measured spectrophotometrically in homogenates of the testis,
epididymis, seminal vesicle and prostate. Immunohistochemical staining was
also performed in the ductus deferens. Enzyme activity was found in the following
sequence: testis>epididymis>dorsal prostatic lobe>seminal
vesicle>lateral prostatic lobe>ventral prostatic lobe. Although there were differences
in enzyme activity between various organs of the male reproductive
system, cathepsin D immunoreactivity was seen exclusively in the Sertoli and
Leydig cells in the testis