1
|
Hu Z, Chen K, Dai H, Lv Z, Li J, Yu P, Feng J, Abdulkarem AM, Wu H, He R, Li G. ROUX-en-Y gastric bypass surgery improves metabolic syndrome-related erectile dysfunction in mice via the IRS-1/PI3K/AKT/eNOS pathway. Sex Med 2024; 12:qfae029. [PMID: 38817951 PMCID: PMC11134102 DOI: 10.1093/sexmed/qfae029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Although many clinical studies have shown that ROUX-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery significantly improves metabolic syndrome-related erectile dysfunction (MED), the role and mechanism are unclear. Aim In this study we used a mouse model to explore how RYGB improves MED induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). Methods We established a mouse model of metabolic syndrome by feeding an HFD for 16 weeks. The mice were randomly assigned to the standard chow diet (SCD), HFD, or RYGB groups. Body weight, fasting blood glucose, plasma insulin, and total plasma cholesterol were analyzed. Erectile responses were evaluated by determining the mean systolic blood pressure and the intracavernosal pressure (ICP). Penile histologic examination (Masson's trichrome and immunohistochemical stain) and Western blot were performed. Result Compared with the SCD group, the ICP in the sham group was significantly lower, and the ICP of the RYGB was significantly increased. Masson's trichrome and immunohistochemical staining showed that the content of endothelium and smooth muscle in the corpus cavernosum of mice with MED was significantly reduced. Western blot analysis showed a significant decrease in α-smooth muscle actin and a significant increase in osteopontin in penile tissue in the sham group, which was improved by RYGB surgery. Furthermore, RYGB significantly increased IRS-1/PI3K/Akt/eNOS phosphorylation. Clinical Translation In this study we explored the mechanism of bariatric surgery to improve erectile dysfunction associated with metabolic syndrome and provided a theoretical basis for clinical research. Strengths and Limitations First, we did not investigate the mechanism by which RYGB affects the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling pathway. Second, the effect of the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling pathway on the function of corpus cavernosum endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells remains to be investigated in cellular studies. Conclusion This study demonstrated that RYGB may not only improve metabolic parameters but also restore erectile function in MED patients. The mechanism of the therapeutic effect of RYGB may be reactivation of the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxing Hu
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhuo 434000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Keming Chen
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haitao Dai
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhuo 434000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiyong Lv
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Puguang Yu
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiajing Feng
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Alqaisi Mohammed Abdulkarem
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haifeng Wu
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rui He
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guangyong Li
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ge Y, Xia T, Feng Z, Xi Y, Hu D, Hong Y, Tang B, Wu J, Chen J, Xiao H. Knockdown of programmed cell death factor 4 restores erectile function by attenuating apoptosis in rats with bilateral cavernous nerve crush injury. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 38217461 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Apoptosis is an important pathologic mechanism of erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy. Studies have shown that programmed cell death factor 4 is connected to the modulation of apoptosis in many cells. However, the programmed cell death factor 4 function in the cavernous nerve injury erectile dysfunction is unclear. OBJECTIVE This investigation aimed to explore the programmed cell death factor 4 function in erectile dysfunction in rats with bilateral cavernous nerve crush. MATERIALS AND METHODS The experiment used 30 male Sprague Dawley rats (18 months old) that were screened for normal erectile function by the apomorphine test. Ten rats were randomized into Sham and bilateral cavernous nerve crush groups to detect changes in programmed cell death factor 4 expression. The remaining 20 rats were distributed at random to four groups: the Sham group treated by sham surgery, the phosphate-buffered saline group, the lentivirus containing negative control short hairpin RNA group, and the lentivirus containing short hairpin RNA targeting programmed cell death factor 4 group underwent bilateral cavernous nerve crush and were afterward administered intracavernous injections of phosphate-buffered saline, lentivirus containing negative control short hairpin RNA, or lentivirus containing short hairpin RNA targeting programmed cell death factor 4. Electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve was conducted 2 weeks later for penile erectile function assessment. The cavernous tissue was collected for histological analysis and western blotting. RESULTS The apoptosis level in rat corpus cavernosum was elevated, and programmed cell death factor 4 expression was increased after bilateral cavernous nerve crush. Knockdown of programmed cell death factor 4 significantly improved erectile function in bilateral cavernous nerve crush rats. Furthermore, lentivirus containing short hairpin RNA targeting programmed cell death factor 4 treatment raised smooth muscle content and attenuated cavernous fibrosis and apoptotic levels. Additionally, programmed cell death factor 4 was found to mediate the PI3K/AKT pathway. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Elevated programmed cell death factor 4 expression may be an important pathogenetic mechanism for erectile dysfunction after bilateral cavernous nerve crush, and the knockdown of programmed cell death factor 4 enhanced erectile function in 18-month-old rats after cavernous nerve damage. The potential mechanism may be the stimulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway to attenuate the cavernous apoptosis level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunlong Ge
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tian Xia
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zejia Feng
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhang Xi
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Daoyuan Hu
- Department of Urology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yude Hong
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bowen Tang
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianjie Wu
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jialiang Chen
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hengjun Xiao
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hu D, Ge Y, Ye L, Xi Y, Chen J, Zhu W, Wang Z, Sun Z, Su Y, Wang D, Xiao S, Qiu J. d-Galactose induces the senescence and phenotype switch of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:124-134. [PMID: 37942832 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Studies regarding age-related erectile dysfunction (ED) based on naturally aging models are limited by their high costs, especially for the acquisition of primary cells from the corpus cavernosum. Herein, d-galactose ( d-gal) was employed to accelerate cell senescence, and the underlying mechanism was explored. As predominant functional cells involved in the erectile response, corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) were isolated from 2-month-old rats. Following this, d-gal was introduced to induce cell senescence, which was verified via β-galactosidase staining. The effects of d-gal on CCSMCs were evaluated by terminal deoxynucleoitidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL), immunofluorescence staining, flow cytometry, western blot, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Furthermore, RNA interference (RNAi) was carried out for rescue experiments. Subsequently, the influence of senescence on the corpus cavernosum was determined via scanning electron microscopy, qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, TUNEL, and Masson stainings. The results revealed that the accelerated senescence of CCSMCs was promoted by d-gal. Simultaneously, smooth muscle alpha-actin (alpha-SMA) expression was inhibited, while that of osteopontin (OPN) and Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4), as well as fibrotic and apoptotic levels, were elevated. After knocking down KLF4 expression in d-gal-induced CCSMCs by RNAi, the expression level of cellular alpha-SMA increased. Contrastingly, the OPN expression, apoptotic and fibrotic levels declined. In addition, cellular senescence acquired partial remission. Accordingly, in the aged corpus cavernosum, the fibrotic and apoptotic rates were increased, followed by downregulation in the expression of alpha-SMA and the concurrent upregulation in the expression of OPN and KLF4. Overall, our results signaled that d-gal-induced accelerated senescence of CCSMCs could trigger fibrosis, apoptosis and phenotypic switch to the synthetic state, potentially attributed to the upregulation of KLF4 expression, which may be a multipotential therapeutic target of age-related ED.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daoyuan Hu
- Department of Urology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunlong Ge
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Ye
- Department of Urology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhang Xi
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jialiang Chen
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenliang Zhu
- Department of Urology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenqing Wang
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhuolun Sun
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, München, Germany
| | - Ying Su
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dejuan Wang
- Department of Urology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shiwei Xiao
- Department of Urology, Guizhou Province People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Jianguang Qiu
- Department of Urology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Guo S, Zhao D, Zang Z, Shao D, Zhang K, Fu Q. Effects of endoplasmic reticulum stress on erectile function in rats with cavernous nerve injury. Sex Med 2023; 11:qfad050. [PMID: 37674767 PMCID: PMC10478027 DOI: 10.1093/sexmed/qfad050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs in an increasing number of patients after radical prostatectomy and cystectomy, and the phenotypic modulation of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells is closely related to ED. Aim To determine whether endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is implicated in the phenotypic modulation of ED induced by bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI). Methods In total, 36 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: sham, in which rats received sham surgery with bilateral cavernous nerve exposure plus phosphate-buffered saline; control, in which rats received BCNI plus phosphate-buffered saline; and experimental, in which rats received BCNI plus 4-phenylbutyric acid. Analysis of variance and a Bonferroni multiple-comparison test were utilized to evaluate differences among groups. Outcomes Erectile function, smooth muscle/collagen ratios, and the expression levels of phenotypic modulation and ERS were measured. Results Two ratios-maximum intracavernosal pressure/mean arterial pressure and smooth muscle/collagen-were decreased in the control group as compared with the sham group. In penile tissue, there was increased expression of GRP78 (78-kDa glucose-regulated protein), p-PERK/PERK (phosphorylated protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase/protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase), caspase 3, CHOP (C/EBP homologous protein), and OPN (osteopontin) but decreased expression of nNOS (neuronal nitric oxide synthase) and α-SMA (α-smooth muscle actin). As compared with the control group, erectile function was improved and pathologic changes were partially recovered in the experimental group. Clinical Translation The present study demonstrated that ERS is involved in ED caused by cavernous nerve injury, thereby providing a new target and theoretical basis for clinical treatment. Strengths and Limitations The present study demonstrated for the first time that ERS is related to ED caused by cavernous nerve injury. Inhibition of ERS reverses phenotypic modulation and improves erectile function in rats with BCNI. Additional in vitro studies should be performed to verify these conclusions and explore the specific mechanism of phenotypic modulation. Conclusion The present study demonstrated that inhibiting ERS reverses phenotypic modulation and enhances erectile function in rats with BCNI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shanjie Guo
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Danfeng Zhao
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Urinary Organ and Functional Reconstruction of Shandong Province, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Zhenjie Zang
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Dingchang Shao
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Keqin Zhang
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Urinary Organ and Functional Reconstruction of Shandong Province, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Qiang Fu
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
- Engineering Laboratory of Urinary Organ and Functional Reconstruction of Shandong Province, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China
- Key Laboratory of Urinary Diseases in Universities of Shandong, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ding W, Fan JH, Zhong LR, Wang NX, Liu LH, Zhang HB, Wang L, Wang MQ, He BL, Wei AY. N-acetylcysteine ameliorates erectile dysfunction in rats with hyperlipidemia by inhibiting oxidative stress and corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells phenotypic modulation. Asian J Androl 2023; 26:00129336-990000000-00110. [PMID: 37534881 PMCID: PMC10846835 DOI: 10.4103/aja202324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyperlipidemia is a major risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). Oxidative stress and phenotypic modulation of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) are the key pathological factors of ED. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can inhibit oxidative stress; however, whether NAC can alleviate pathological variations in the corpus cavernosum and promote erectile function recovery in hyperlipidemic rats remains unclear. A hyperlipidemia model was established using 27 eight-week-old male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats fed a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet (hyperlipidemic rats, HR). In addition, 9 male SD rats were fed a normal diet to serve as controls (NC). HR rats were divided into three groups: HR, HR+normal saline (NS), and HR+NAC (n = 9 for each group; NS or NAC intraperitoneal injections were administered daily for 16 weeks). Subsequently, the lipid profiles, erectile function, oxidative stress, phenotypic modulation markers of CCSMCs, and tissue histology were analyzed. The experimental results revealed that erectile function was significantly impaired in the HR and HR + NS groups, but enhanced in the HR + NAC group. Abnormal lipid levels, over-activated oxidative stress, and multi-organ lesions observed in the HR and HR + NS groups were improved in the HR + NAC group. Moreover, the HR group showed significant phenotypic modulation of CCSMCs, which was also inhibited by NAC treatment. This report focuses on the therapeutic effect of NAC in restoring erectile function using a hyperlipidemic rat model by preventing CCSMC phenotypic modulation and attenuating oxidative stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ding
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550002, China
| | - Jun-Hong Fan
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Li-Ren Zhong
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Nan-Xiong Wang
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen Immigration Inspection General Station Hospital, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Lu-Hao Liu
- Department of Organ Transplantation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Hai-Bo Zhang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Ming-Qiang Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550002, China
| | - Bing-Lin He
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - An-Yang Wei
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhou X, Luo C, Fan J, Gao G, Wang T, Zhang H, Wei A. Myocardin Reverses Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α Mediated Phenotypic Modulation of Corpus Cavernosum Smooth Muscle Cells in Hypoxia Induced by Cobalt Chloride. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:363-372. [PMID: 35274501 PMCID: PMC10042661 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.210226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to investigate the mechanism of phenotypic transformation of corporal cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) under hypoxic conditions in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, a hypoxia model was established using cobalt chloride (CoCl2). CCSMCs were treated with different concentrations of CoCl2 for varying time periods, and cell viability was assessed. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), myocardin (Myocd) and phenotypic markers were detected in the CCSMCs. We also transfected the CCSMCs with si-HIF-1α and Ad-Myocd and evaluated the effects on phenotypic modulation of CCSMCs and the relationship between HIF-1α and Myocd was evaluated. RESULTS CoCl2 inhibited the viability of CCSMCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and treatment with 300 µM CoCl2 for 48 hours were the optimal conditions for establishing the hypoxia model. The results showed increased expression levels of HIF-1α and osteopontin and decreased Myocd, alpha-smooth muscle actin, and calponin levels in CCSMCs under hypoxia. HIF-1α knockdown reversed hypoxia-induced phenotypic transformation with elevated Myocd expression. Overexpression of Myocd also reversed the effect of hypoxia on the phenotypic switch, but did not affect HIF-1α expression. CONCLUSIONS Our findings showed that HIF-1α was involved in the effect of hypoxia induced by CoCl2 on CCSMC phenotypic modulation, and Myocd overexpression could inhibit this process. Thus, Myocd might be a potential therapeutic target for erectile dysfunction under hypoxia or HIF-1α activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiongcai Zhou
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Urology, Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chao Luo
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Junhong Fan
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Guangqian Gao
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Andrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Foshan, Guangdong, China.
| | - Haibo Zhang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Anyang Wei
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Asker H, Yilmaz-Oral D, Oztekin CV, Gur S. An update on the current status and future prospects of erectile dysfunction following radical prostatectomy. Prostate 2022; 82:1135-1161. [PMID: 35579053 DOI: 10.1002/pros.24366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radical prostatectomy (RP) and radiation treatment are standard options for localized prostate cancer. Even though nerve-sparing techniques have been increasingly utilized in RP, erectile dysfunction (ED) due to neuropraxia remains a frequent complication. Erectile function recovery rates after RP remain unsatisfactory, and many men still suffer despite the availability of various therapies. OBJECTIVE This systematic review aims to summarize the current treatments for post-RP-ED, assess the underlying pathological mechanisms, and emphasize promising therapeutic strategies based on the evidence from basic research. METHOD Evaluation and review of articles on the relevant topic published between 2010 and 2021, which are indexed and listed in the PubMed database. RESULTS Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, intracavernosal and intraurethral injections, vacuum erection devices, pelvic muscle training, and surgical procedures are utilized for penile rehabilitation. Clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of erectogenic drugs in this setting are conflicting and far from being conclusive. The use of androgen deprivation therapy in certain scenarios after RP further exacerbates the already problematic situation and emphasizes the need for effective treatment strategies. CONCLUSION This article is a detailed overview focusing on the pathophysiology and mechanism of the nerve injury developed during RP and a compilation of various strategies to induce cavernous nerve regeneration to improve erectile function (EF). These strategies include stem cell therapy, gene therapy, growth factors, low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy, immunophilins, and various pharmacological approaches that have induced improvements in EF in experimental models of cavernous nerve injury. Many of the mentioned strategies can improve EF following RP if transformed into clinically applicable safe, and effective techniques with reproducible outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heba Asker
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Turkey
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Didem Yilmaz-Oral
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Cetin Volkan Oztekin
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kyrenia, Girne, Turkey
| | - Serap Gur
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Huang J, Huang Y, Shi X, Lyu Y, Wu M, Chen Y, Zhou L, Yu H, Xie H, Chen F. Phenotypic modulation of vascular smooth muscle cells in the corpus spongiosum surrounding the urethral plate in hypospadias. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14540. [PMID: 35866316 DOI: 10.1111/and.14540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypospadias is an abnormal ventral development of the penis caused by incomplete virilization of the male genital tubercle. This study investigated the phenotypic modulation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in the corpus spongiosum surrounding the urethral plate in hypospadias. The urethral corpus spongiosum tissue was collected for HE, Masson and α-SMA immunohistochemical staining. Spongiosum VSMCs were cultured and identified by α-SMA fluorescence. qRT-PCR and Western blotting and fluorescence were performed. The results showed that the vascular lumen of the corpus spongiosum around the urethral plate was larger and that the vascular smooth muscle layer was thicker in hypospadias. The expression of the contractile markers α-SMA and Calponin 1 in VSMCs was decreased, the expression of the synthetic marker OPN was increased, and the transcription of the phenotypic switching factors SRF and MYOCD was decreased. The expression of Ki67, PCNA and BAX was increased, and the expression of Bcl-2 was decreased. The phenotype of corpus spongiosum VSMCs in hypospadias changed from the contractional type to the synthetic type. This phenotypic modulation was associated with increased proliferation and apoptosis rates. SRF and MYOCD may be the main factors mediating the phenotypic modulation of urethral corpus spongiosum VSMCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiayao Huang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yichen Huang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiujuan Shi
- School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiqing Lyu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lijun Zhou
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huan Yu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua Xie
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai 6th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang Y, Wang J, Hao Z, Yang H, Li Y, Tan M, Liu L, Feng S, Mei L, Qian B. Inhibition of gap junction communication between cells can induce apoptosis of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle in guinea pigs. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14287. [PMID: 34755909 DOI: 10.1111/and.14287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of gap junction (GJ) on apoptosis of smooth muscle. Forty adult male guinea pigs were randomly divided into four groups with 10 guinea pigs in each group. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) and Gap27 were injected at the root of the corpus cavernosum. Two weeks later, the corpus cavernosum tissue was taken to be tested. The expression of Cx43 and α-SMC protein was detected by immunofluorescence and Western blotting. The content of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle was detected by Masson trichrome staining. Apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining and Western blotting. The results showed that Gap27 did not affect Cx43 but decreased the expression of smooth muscle. The results of TUNEL staining and detection of apoptosis-related proteins showed that apoptosis was induced by Gap27. In addition, we found that corpus cavernosum injection of AAV could induce obvious apoptosis. In this study, we examined the effect of inhibition of gap junction on smooth muscle, and suggested that the decrease of gap junction function may be a potential mechanism of smooth muscle apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Wang
- Department of Urological Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.,Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Jingshen Wang
- Department of Urological Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.,Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Zhiqiang Hao
- Department of Urological Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.,Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Heng Yang
- Department of Urological Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.,Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Yongle Li
- Department of Urological Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.,Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Minghui Tan
- Department of Urological Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.,Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Lixin Liu
- The People's Hospital of Yudu county, Ganzhou, China
| | - Shiming Feng
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Liang Mei
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Biao Qian
- Department of Urological Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of the Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.,Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Luo C, Zhou X, Wang L, Zeng Q, Fan J, He S, Zhang H, Wei A. Screening and identification of NOTCH1, CDKN2A, and NOS3 as differentially expressed autophagy-related genes in erectile dysfunction. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11986. [PMID: 34447638 PMCID: PMC8366525 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Loss of function of key autophagy genes are associated with a variety of diseases. However specific role of autophagy-related genes in erectile dysfunction ED remains unclear. This study explores the autophagy-related differentially expressed genes (ARGs) profiles and related molecular mechanisms in Corpus Cavernosum endothelial dysfunction, which is a leading cause of ED. Methods The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used to identify the key genes and pathways. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were mined using the limma package in R language. Next, ARGs were obtained by matching DEGs and autophagy-related genes from GeneCard using Venn diagrams. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses of ARGs were described using clusterProfiler and org.Hs.eg.db in R. Moreover, hub ARGs were screened out through protein-protein interaction (PPI), gene-microRNAs, and gene-transcription factors (TFs) networks then visualized using Cytoscape. Of note, the rat model of diabetic ED was established to validate some hub ARGs with qRT-PCR and Western blots. Results Twenty ARGs were identified from four ED samples and eight non-ED samples. GO analysis revealed that molecular functions (MF) of upregulated ARGs were mainly enriched in nuclear receptor activity. Also, MF of downregulated ARGs were mainly enriched in oxidoreductase activity, acting on NAD(P)H and heme proteins as acceptors. Moreover, six hub ARGs were identified by setting high degrees in the network. Additionally, hsa-mir-24-3p and hsa-mir-335-5p might play a central role in several ARGs regulation, and the transcription factors-hub genes network was centered with 13 ARGs. The experimental results further showed that the expression of Notch1, NOS3, and CDKN2A in the diabetic ED group was downregulated compared to the control. Conclusions Our study deepens the autophagy-related mechanistic understanding of endothelial dysfunction of ED. NOTCH1, CDKN2A, and NOS3 are involved in the regulation of endothelial dysfunction and may be potential therapeutic targets for ED by modulating autophagy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Luo
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiongcai Zhou
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Department of Urology, Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Li Wang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qinyu Zeng
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Junhong Fan
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuhua He
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haibo Zhang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Anyang Wei
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Qinyu-Zeng, Shuhua-He, Fengzhi-Chen, Li-Wang, Liren-Zhong, Jialiang-Hui, Wei-Ding, Junhong-Fan, Haibo-Zhang, Anyang-Wei. Administration of H 2S improves erectile dysfunction by inhibiting phenotypic modulation of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle in bilateral cavernous nerve injury rats. Nitric Oxide 2021; 107:1-10. [PMID: 33246103 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2020.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Phenotypic modulation of Corpus Cavernosum Smooth Muscle Cells (CCSMCs) is an important step in the development and progression of bilateral cavernous nerve injury induced erectile dysfunction (BCNI-ED). To investigate the effect of exogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on the phenotypic modulation of CCSMCs in BCNI-ED rats, a total of 18 male Sprague-Dawley rats were equally divided into 3 groups, including sham-operated (Sham) group, BCNI group and BCNI treated with NaHS (BCNI + NaHS) group. The treated group received intraperitoneal injection of NaHS (100 μmol kg-1day-1) for 4 weeks starting day 1 postoperatively. Erectile function was measured by the ratio of intracavernous pressure (ICP)/mean arterial pressure (MAP), and relevant tissues were harvested for Immunohistochemistry, Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Masson's trichrome staining, H2S fluorescent probe WSP-1 and Western blot. The primary CCSMCs were isolated and pretreatment with NaHS before exposed to PDGF-BB (platelet-derived growth factor). Relative expression mRNA and protein of phenotypic biomarkers, RhoA, ROCK-1 and cell cycle proteins were detected. Cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE), 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST) and H2S levels in penile tissue was significantly decreased in the BCNI group compared with the Sham group. Compared with the BCNI group, administration of NaHS significantly increased the ratio of ICP/MAP, ratio of smooth muscle to collagen, expressions of a-SMA, calponin and decreased the expression of OPN, collagen-I, RhoA, ROCK1 in the penile tissue. PDGF-BB-treated CCSMCs exhibited higher expression of OPN, RhoA, ROCK1, and lower α-SMA, calponin, which were attenuated by NaHS pretreatment. NaHS suppressed RhoA/ROCK activity and decreased the expression of CDK2, Cyclin E1, while increased the expression of P27kip1 induced by PDGF-BB in CCSMCs. Taken together, this study indicated that exogenous H2S inhibited the phenotypic modulation of CCSMCs by suppressing RhoA/ROCK1 signaling and affecting its downstream factor, CDK2, Cyclin E1, P27kip1, thereby improved BCNI rat erectile function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinyu-Zeng
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Shuhua-He
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Fengzhi-Chen
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518035, Guangdong, China
| | - Li-Wang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Liren-Zhong
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jialiang-Hui
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Wei-Ding
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guiyang University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Junhong-Fan
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Haibo-Zhang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
| | - Anyang-Wei
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yue XF, Shen CX, Wang JW, Dai LY, Fang Q, Long L, Zhi Y, Li XR, Wang YW, Shen GF, Liu ZJ, Shi CM, Li WB. The near-infrared dye IR-61 restores erectile function in a streptozotocin-induced diabetes model via mitochondrial protection. Asian J Androl 2021; 23:249-258. [PMID: 33402547 PMCID: PMC8152422 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_69_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of IR-61, a novel mitochondrial heptamethine cyanine dye with antioxidant effects, on diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). Eight-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin (STZ) to induce type 1 diabetes. Eight weeks after STZ injection, all rats were divided into three groups: the control group, DM group, and DM + IR-61 group. In the DM + IR-61 group, the rats were administered IR-61 (1.6 mg kg-1) twice a week by intravenous injection. At week 13, erectile function was evaluated by determining the ratio of the maximal intracavernous pressure to mean arterial pressure, and the penises were then harvested for fluorescent imaging, transmission electron microscopy, histological examinations, and Western blot analysis. Whole-body imaging suggested that IR-61 was highly accumulated in the penis after intravenous injection. IR-61 treatment significantly improved the maximal ICP of diabetic rats. Additionally, IR-61 ameliorated diabetes-induced inflammation, apoptosis, and phenotypic transition of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) in penile tissue. IR-61 also attenuated mitochondrial damage, reduced reactive oxygen species production in the corpus cavernosum and upregulated sirtuin1 (SIRT1), sirtuin3 (SIRT3), nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase expression in penile tissue. In conclusion, IR-61 represents a potential therapeutic option for DMED by protecting the mitochondria of CCSMCs, which may be mediated by activation of the SIRT1, SIRT3, and Nrf2 pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Feng Yue
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Gener Hospital), Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Chong-Xing Shen
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Gener Hospital), Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Jian-Wu Wang
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Gener Hospital), Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Lin-Yong Dai
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Gener Hospital), Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Qiang Fang
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Gener Hospital), Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Lei Long
- Institute of Rocket Force Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yi Zhi
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Gener Hospital), Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Xue-Ru Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Gener Hospital), Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Ya-Wei Wang
- Institute of Rocket Force Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Gu-Fang Shen
- Institute of Rocket Force Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zu-Juan Liu
- Institute of Rocket Force Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Chun-Meng Shi
- Institute of Rocket Force Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Wei-Bing Li
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Gener Hospital), Chongqing 401120, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Qian SQ, Qin F, Zhang S, Yang Y, Wei Q, Wang R, Yuan JH. Vacuum therapy prevents corporeal veno-occlusive dysfunction and penile shrinkage in a cavernosal nerve injured rat model. Asian J Androl 2020; 22:274-279. [PMID: 31249269 PMCID: PMC7275793 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_57_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction and penile shrinkage are the common complications after radical prostatectomy. Penile rehabilitation is widely applied after the surgery. Vacuum therapy is one of the three penile rehabilitation methods used in the clinical setting, but its mechanism is not well known. This study was designed to investigate whether vacuum erectile device (VED) can prevent corporeal veno-occlusive dysfunction and penile shrinkage in the bilateral cavernous nerve crush (BCNC) rat model. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned into three groups: sham group, BCNC group, and BCNC + VED group. After 4 weeks, penile length and intracavernosal pressure (ICP) were measured, and then the middle part of the penis was harvested after dynamic infusion cavernosometry to complete the following items: smooth muscle/collagen ratios and collagen I/III ratios; ultramicrostructure of the tunica albuginea, endothelial cell, and smooth muscle cell; and the expression of calponin-1 and osteopontin. The penile shortening, peak ICP and ICP drop rate after alprostadil injection were significantly improved with vacuum therapy after 4-week treatment. Compared with BCNC group, VED significantly increased smooth muscle/collagen ratios, decreased collagen I/III ratios, and preserved the ultramicrostructure of the tunica albuginea, endothelial cell, and smooth muscle cell. The data also showed that animals exposed to VED could partially reverse the expression of calponin-1 and osteopontin induced by BCNC. In conclusion, vacuum therapy is effective to prevent penile shrinkage and veno-occlusive dysfunction in penile rehabilitation, which may be associated with well-preserved structure and function of the tunica albuginea, endothelial cell, and smooth muscle cell.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Qiang Qian
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Department of Urology, Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing 402760, China
| | - Feng Qin
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Run Wang
- Division of Urology, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jiu-Hong Yuan
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Xu Z, Chen J, Cai J, Xiao Y, Wang Q, Chen S, Zhang L, Wu Z. Mitochondrial ATP synthase regulates corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cell function in vivo and in vitro. Exp Ther Med 2020; 19:3497-3504. [PMID: 32346410 PMCID: PMC7185181 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.8637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels are closely associated with diabetes-related erectile dysfunction (DMED). Mitochondrial ATP synthase serves a key role in ATP production. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between F1-ATP synthase and DMED in vivo and in vitro. The F1-ATP synthase expression levels in corpus cavernosum tissues from rats with DMED were examined. F1-ATP synthase expression was found to be lower in corpus cavernosum tissues from rats with DMED compared with healthy controls, suggesting a role for ATP synthase under high glucose conditions. In addition, the present study also demonstrated that hyperglycemia could downregulate F1-ATP synthase expression in rat corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) in vitro. The overexpression of F1-ATP synthase in CCSMCs influenced the phenotypic CCSMC transformation, upregulated eNOS expression, increased cGMP levels and reduced CCSMC apoptosis under high glucose in vitro. In conclusion, the present study indicates that the upregulation of mitochondrial ATP synthase expression may improve CCSMC function, suggesting that mitochondrial ATP synthase could serve as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of DMED.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziqiang Xu
- Department of Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Jihao Chen
- Department of Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Jian Cai
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Yunbei Xiao
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Qinquan Wang
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Shuowei Chen
- The Second Department of Medicine, Renji School, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Zhigang Wu
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sodium Tanshinone IIA Sulfonate Attenuates Erectile Dysfunction in Rats with Hyperlipidemia. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:7286958. [PMID: 32215177 PMCID: PMC7081035 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7286958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hyperlipidemia is considered one of the most important risk factors for erectile dysfunction (ED). To determine the effect of sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate (STS) as an antioxidant agent on ED in high-fat diet- (HFD-) induced hyperlipidemia in rats and to investigate if STS administration could improve erectile function via hydrogen sulfide (H2S) production by inhibition of oxidative stress. Hyperlipidemia was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by feeding HFD for 16 weeks. The rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: control, HFD, and HFD treated with STS (10 mg/kg/day for 12 weeks, intraperitoneal injection). Erectile function including intracavernosal pressure (ICP), H2S production, and antioxidant capacity was assessed. In addition, cavernosal smooth muscle cells (CSMC) isolated from SD rats were pretreated with STS in vitro and exposed to H2O2. Expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), activity of antioxidant enzymes, and H2S-generating enzymes within CSMC were examined. ICP was significantly decreased in HFD rats compared with control. In addition, decreased H2S production and expression of cystathionine ɣ-lyase (CSE) and cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) associated with increased oxidative stress were observed in the penile tissue of HFD rats. However, all these changes were reversed by 16 weeks after STS administration. STS also increased antioxidant defense as evidenced by increased expression of Nrf2/HO-1 in the penile tissue of HFD rats. In CSMC, pretreatment with STS attenuated the decreased expression of CSE and CBS and H2S production by H2O2. STS exerted similar protective antioxidative effect as shown in the in vivo hyperlipidemia model. The present study demonstrated the redox effect of STS treatment on ED via increased H2S production in HFD-induced hyperlipidemia rat model by increased antioxidant capacity via activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, which provides STS potential clinical application in the treatment of hyperlipidemia-related ED.
Collapse
|
16
|
Zeng Q, He S, Zhong L, Wang L, Cheng F, Zhang H, Hui J, Wei A. [Exogenous hydrogen sulfide improves erectile dysfunction by inhibiting apoptosis of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells in rats with cavernous nerve injury]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2019; 39:1329-1336. [PMID: 31852640 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2019.11.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the effects of exogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on apoptosis of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) and erectile dysfunction (ED) in rats with bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI). METHODS Twentyfour male SD rats were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=8):sham operation group, bilateral cavernous nerve injury group (BCNI group) and H2S intervention group (BCNI+NaHS group). In BCNI and BCNI+NaHS groups, BCNI was induced by clamp injury of the bilateral cavernous nerves, and the rats were subjected to daily intraperitoneal injection of normal saline and 100 μmol/kg NaHS solution for 4 weeks, respectively. After the treatment, the intracavernous pressure (ICP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP), ) of the rats were measured. Western blotting was used to detect the expressions of cystathionine β synthetase (CBS), cystathionine γ lyase (CSE), α-SMA, collagen-I, caspase-3, Bax and Bcl-2 in the penile cavernous tissue, and the expressions of CBS and CSE were also detected immunohistochemically. The ratio of cavernous smooth muscle to collagen was detected using Masson's Trichrome staining. The apoptosis level of CCSMC was detected by TUNEL + α-SMA immunofluorescence double staining. RESULTS After 4 weeks of treatment, the rats in BCNI+NaHS group showed a significantly higher ICP/MAP ratio than those in BCNI group (P < 0.05). The results of Masson's Trichrome staining showed that the ratio of cavernous smooth muscle/collagen was significantly higher in BCNI + NaHS group than in BCNI group (P < 0.05). Western blotting showed a significantly higher expression of α-SMA protein but a lower expression of collagen-I protein in BCNI + NaHS group than in BCNI group (P < 0.05). TUNEL+α-SMA immunofluorescence double staining revealed a significantly lower number of apoptotic CCSMCs in BCNI+NaHS group than in BCNI group (P < 0.05). Compared with those in BCNI group, the rats in BCNI+NaHS group had significantly decreased expressions of caspase-3 and Bax proteins (P < 0.05) with significantly enhanced Bcl-2 protein expression and an increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio (P < 0.05). The expressions of CBS and CSE were significantly lower in BCNI group than in the other two groups (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Exogenous H2S enhance the expression of the classic apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and reduces apoptosis of CCSMC to improve the erectile function in rats with BCNI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinyu Zeng
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Shuhua He
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Liren Zhong
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Fengzhi Cheng
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.,Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Haibo Zhang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jialiang Hui
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Anyang Wei
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hassanin AM, Abdel-Hamid AZ. Cavernous smooth muscles: innovative potential therapies are promising for an unrevealed clinical diagnosis. Int Urol Nephrol 2019; 52:205-217. [DOI: 10.1007/s11255-019-02309-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
18
|
In vivo tracking on longer retention of transplanted myocardin gene-modified adipose-derived stem cells to improve erectile dysfunction in diabetic rats. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:208. [PMID: 31311594 PMCID: PMC6636019 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1325-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stem cell therapy has revealed a promising future for treating erectile dysfunction (ED), but the fate and curative mechanism of intracavernosal transplanted stem cells are under further exploration. This study aimed to demonstrate the effects of myocardin gene modification on improving erectile function and prolonging the retention of implanted adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) using in vivo small animal imaging. METHODS ASCs were isolated, cultured, and identified by flow cytometry and osteogenic and adipogenic induction. The effects of gene modification on cell proliferation, apoptosis, and contraction were determined by CCK-8, EdU, flow cytometry, and collagen gel lattice contraction assays as well as confocal microscopy. A total of 20 normal and 60 diabetes mellitus ED to (DMED) Sprague-Dawley rats were recruited to the 7 day and 21 day groups. Each group contained subgroups of 10 rats each: the negative control (NC), DMED + ASCs plus Ad-Luc-Myocardin, DMED + ASCs plus Ad-Luc, and DMED + phosphate buffer solution (PBS) groups. Erectile function was evaluated with the intracavernosal pressure/mean arterial pressure (△ICP/MAP) ratio. In vivo small animal imaging and an EdU cell tracking strategy were introduced to detect the transplanted ASCs, and IHC and WB were performed to assess smooth muscle cell protein levels. RESULTS The ASCs expressed high CD29 and CD90 and scant CD45, while the multi-induction potential was verified by oil red O and alizarin red staining. Gene transfection of myocardin had no significant influence on ASC apoptosis but inhibited cell proliferation and promoted cell contraction. Myocardin combined with ASCs enhanced the therapeutic potential of ASCs for improving the △ICP/MAP ratio as well as α-SMA and calponin expression. In vivo imaging confirmed that ASCs resided within the cavernous body in 21 days, while only a few red EdU dots were detected. CONCLUSIONS Myocardin induced ASC differentiation towards smooth muscle-like cells and enhanced the therapeutic potential of ASCs for ameliorating ED in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Notably, in vivo small animal tracking was an effective strategy for monitoring the implanted stem cells, and this strategy might have advantages over traditional EdU assays.
Collapse
|
19
|
Zhao S, Wang J, Xie Q, Luo L, Zhu Z, Liu Y, Deng Y, Kang R, Luo J, Zhao Z. Elucidating Mechanisms of Long-Term Gasoline Vehicle Exhaust Exposure–Induced Erectile Dysfunction in a Rat Model. J Sex Med 2019; 16:155-167. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
|
20
|
Roaiah MMF, Abdel Kader AA, Hassanin AM, Maged M, Murshed MA. The application of spontaneous corpus cavernosum EMG to assess the status of cavernous smooth muscles, a preliminary study. Rev Int Androl 2019; 17:1-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.androl.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Revised: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
21
|
Fu Y, Jiang W, Zhao Y, Huang Y, Zhang H, Wang H, Pu J. A Simple and Efficient Method for In Vivo Cardiac-specific Gene Manipulation by Intramyocardial Injection in Mice. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 29708533 DOI: 10.3791/57074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene manipulation specifically in the heart significantly potentiate the investigation of cardiac disease pathomechanisms and their therapeutic potential. In vivo cardiac-specific gene delivery is commonly achieved by either systemic or local delivery. Systemic injection via tail vein is easy and efficient in manipulating cardiac gene expression by using recombinant adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9). However, this method requires a relatively high amount of vector for efficient transduction, and may result in nontarget organ gene transduction. Here, we describe a simple, efficient, and time-saving method of intramyocardial injection for in vivo cardiac-specific gene manipulation in mice. Under anesthesia (without ventilation), the pectoral major and minor muscles were bluntly dissected, and the mouse heart was quickly exposed by manual externalization through a small incision at the fourth intercostal space. Subsequently, adenovirus encoding luciferase (Luc) and vitamin D receptor (VDR), or short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting VDR, was injected with a Hamilton syringe into the myocardium. Subsequent in vivo imaging demonstrated that luciferase was successfully overexpressed specifically in the heart. Moreover, Western blot analysis confirmed the successful overexpression or silencing of VDR in the mouse heart. Once mastered, this technique can be used for gene manipulation, as well as injection of cells or other materials such as nanogels in the mouse heart.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Fu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College; Department of Cardiology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University
| | - Wenlong Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University
| | - Yichao Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University
| | - Yuli Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College
| | - Heng Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College;
| | - Hongju Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College
| | - Jun Pu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College; Department of Cardiology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University;
| |
Collapse
|