Probucol enhances the therapeutic efficiency of mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in diabetic rats by prolonging their survival time via Nrf2 pathway

Effects of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy for cavernous nerve injury-induced erectile dysfunction in the rat model

Stem cell treatment may enhance erectile dysfunction (ED) in individuals with cavernous nerve injury (CNI). Nevertheless, no investigations have directly ascertained the implications of varying amounts of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HUC-MSCs) on ED. We compare the efficacy of three various doses of HUC-MSCs as a therapeutic strategy for ED. Sprague-Dawley rats (total = 175) were randomly allocated into five groups. A total of 35 rats underwent sham surgery and 140 rats endured bilateral CNI and were treated with vehicles or doses of HUC-MSCs (1 × 106 cells, 5 × 106 cells, and 1 × 107 cells in 0.1 ml, respectively). Penile tissues were harvested for histological analysis on 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, 14 days, 28 days, 60 days, and 90 days postsurgery. It was found that varying dosages of HUC-MSCs enhanced the erectile function of rats with bilateral CNI and ED. Moreover, there was no significant disparity in the effectiveness of various dosages of HUC-MSCs. However, the expression of endothelial markers (rat endothelial cell antigen-1 [RECA-1] and endothelial nitric oxide synthase [eNOS]), smooth muscle markers (alpha smooth muscle actin [α-SMA] and desmin), and neural markers (neurofilament [RECA-1] and neurogenic nitric oxide synthase [nNOS]) increased significantly with prolonged treatment time. Masson's staining demonstrated an increased in the smooth muscle cell (SMC)/collagen ratio. Significant changes were detected in the microstructures of various types of cells. In vivo imaging system (IVIS) analysis showed that at the 1st day, the HUC-MSCs implanted moved to the site of damage. Additionally, the oxidative stress levels were dramatically reduced in the penises of rats administered with HUC-MSCs.

The promise of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells in erectile dysfunction treatment: a review of current insights and future directions

Erectile dysfunction is a common and multifactorial condition that significantly impacts men's quality of life. Traditional treatments, such as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), often fail to provide lasting benefits, particularly in patients with underlying health conditions. In recent years, regenerative medicine, particularly stem cell therapies, has emerged as a promising alternative for managing erectile dysfunction. This review explores the potential of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) and their paracrine effects, including extracellular vesicles (EVs), in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. MSCs have shown remarkable potential in promoting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and regenerating smooth muscle cells, offering therapeutic benefits in models of erectile dysfunction. Clinical trials have demonstrated positive outcomes in improving erectile function and other clinical parameters. This review highlights the promise of MSC therapy for erectile dysfunction, discusses existing challenges, and emphasizes the need for continued research to refine these therapies and improve long-term patient outcomes.

Comprehensive analysis of biological landscape of oxidative stress-related genes in diabetic erectile dysfunction

Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of diabetic erectile dysfunction, while specific mechanisms have not been illuminated. The study aims to reveal the genetic expression patterns of oxidative stress in diabetic erectile dysfunction. Transcriptome data of diabetic erectile dysfunction and oxidative stress-related genes (OSRGs) in the Gene Expression Omnibus database were downloaded and analyzed based on differential expression. Functional enrichment analyses were conducted to clarify the biological functions. A protein interaction framework was established, and significant gene profiles were validated in the cavernous endothelial cells, clinical patients, and rat models. A miRNA-OSRGs network was predicted and validated. The results were analyzed using Student's t-test. The analysis screened 203 differentially expressed OSRGs (p < 0.05), which had a close association with oxidoreductase activities, glutathione metabolism, and autophagy. A four-gene signature comprised of EPS8L2 (p = 0.044), GSTA3 (p = 0.015), LOX (p < 0.001) and MGST1 (p = 0.002) was well validated and regarded as the hub OSRGs. Compared with the control group, notable increases and decreases were observed in the expressions of GSTA3 (3.683 ± 0.636 vs. 0.416 ± 0.507) and LOX (2.104 ± 1.895 vs. 18.804 ± 2.751) in the validated diabetic erectile dysfunction group. The hub OSRGs-related miRNAs participated in smooth muscle cell proliferation. Besides, miR-125a-3p (p = 0.034) and miR-138-2-3p (p = 0.012) were validated as promising oxidative stress-related miRNA biomarkers. Our findings revealed the genetic alternations of oxidative stress in diabetic erectile dysfunction. These results will be instructive to explore the molecular landscape and the potential treatment for diabetic erectile dysfunction.

Probucol-bile acid nanoparticles: a novel approach and promising solution to prevent cellular oxidative stress in sensorineural hearing loss

The use of antioxidants could thus prove an effective medication to prevent or facilitate recovery from oxidative stress-induced sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). One promising strategy to prevent SNHL is developing probucol (PB)-based nanoparticles using encapsulation technology and administering them to the inner ear via the established intratympanic route. The preclinical, clinical and epidemiological studies support that PB is a proven antioxidant that could effectively prevent oxidative stress in different study models. Such findings suggest its applicability in preventing oxidative stress within the inner ear and its associated neural cells. However, several hurdles, such as overcoming the blood-labyrinth barrier, ensuring sustained release, minimising systemic side effects and optimising targeted delivery in the intricate inner ear structures, must be overcome to efficiently deliver PB to the inner ear. This review explores the background and pathogenesis of hearing loss, the potential of PB in treating oxidative stress and its cellular mechanisms, and the obstacles linked to inner ear drug delivery for effectively introducing PB to the inner ear.

miR-200a-3p-enriched MSC-derived extracellular vesicles reverse erectile function in diabetic rats by targeting Keap1

BACKGROUND

The administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) through intracavernous injection is a potential therapeutic approach for managing diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). However, pulmonary embolism and tumorigenicity are fatal adverse events that limit the clinical application of MSCs. In this study, we examined the therapeutic efficacy and potential mechanism of MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs).

METHODS

In this study, forty 8-week-old male SpragueDawley (SD) rats were utilised. In the control group, ten rats were administered an intraperitoneal injection of PBS. STZ (60 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected into the remaining rats to establish a diabetes mellitus (DM) model. Afterwards, the diabetic rats were divided into three groups at random: the DM group (intracavernosal injection of PBS), the EVs group (intracavernosal injection of MSC-EVs), and the EVs-200a group (intracavernosal injection of miR-200a-3p-enriched extracellular vesicles). Erectile function was determined by measuring intracavernous pressure in real time and utilising electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerves. The smooth muscle content was evaluated through the investigation of penile tissue using immunofluorescence staining, Masson's trichrome staining, and western blotting after euthanasia. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) levels in the corpus cavernosum were measured via ELISA. In vitro, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was used to induce oxidative stress. The viability of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (ccSMCs) incubated with or without H2O2 was measured using a CCK8 assay. Flow cytometry was used to assess the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis in ccSMCs. Furthermore, a dual-luciferase reporter assay was performed to validate the relationship between miR-200a-3p and Keap1.

RESULTS

Reversal of erectile function was observed in the EVs groups, especially in the EVs-200a group. DM increased the MDA level and decreased the SOD and GSH levels. In the DM group, the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and smooth muscle 22 alpha (SM22α) was decreased, and the expression of osteopontin (OPN) was increased. Western blotting revealed decreased Nrf2, HO-1, and Bcl2 expression and increased Keap1, Bax and cleaved caspase3 expression in the cavernous tissue. miR-200a-3p-enriched extracellular vesicles (EVs-200a) reversed these changes and inhibited the loss of smooth muscle content and cavernous fibrosis. In vitro, H2O2 induced high ROS levels in ccSMCs and increased apoptosis, and these effects reversed by EVs-200a. H2O2 reduced Nrf2, HO-1, and Bcl2 expression and increased Keap1, Bax and cleaved caspase-3 expression, and these effects were reversed by MSC-EVs, especially EVs-200a. The of dual-luciferase reporter assay results indicated that miR-200a-3p directly targeted Keap1 in a negative manner.

CONCLUSION

MSC-EVs, especially EVs-200a, alleviated erectile dysfunction in diabetic rats through the regulation of phenotypic switching, apoptosis and fibrosis. Mechanistically, miR-200a-3p targeted the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway to attenuate oxidative stress in diabetic rats.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Loaded Hydrogel Improves Surgical Treatment for Chronic Cerebral Ischemia

Chronic cerebral ischemia (CCI) results in a prolonged insufficient blood supply to the brain tissue, leading to impaired neuronal function and subsequent impairment of cognitive and motor abilities. Our previous research showed that in mice with bilateral carotid artery stenosis, the collateral neovascularization post Encephalo-myo-synangiosis (EMS) treatment could be facilitated by bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation. Considering the advantages of biomaterials, we synthesized and modified a gelatin hydrogel for MSCs encapsulation. We then applied this hydrogel on the brain surface during EMS operation in rats with CCI, and evaluated its impact on cognitive performance and collateral circulation. Consequently, MSCs encapsulated in hydrogel significantly augment the therapeutic effects of EMS, potentially by promoting neovascularization, facilitating neuronal differentiation, and suppressing neuroinflammation. Furthermore, taking advantage of multi-RNA-sequencing and in silico analysis, we revealed that MSCs loaded in hydrogel regulate PDCD4 and CASP2 through the overexpression of miR-183-5p and miR-96-5p, thereby downregulating the expression of apoptosis-related proteins and inhibiting early apoptosis. In conclusion, a gelatin hydrogel to enhance the functionality of MSCs has been developed, and its combination with EMS treatment can improve the therapeutic effect in rats with CCI, suggesting its potential clinical benefit.

Quercetin attenuates brain apoptosis in mice with chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced depression

BACKGROUND

Depression is a common psychiatric disorder with limited effective treatments. Research suggests that depression involves apoptosis mechanisms. Quercetin (QUE) has been reported to have anti-apoptotic activities. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of QUE in chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depression.

METHODS

After establishing mouse models of CUMS-induced depression, the mice were randomly assigned into four groups: control, CUMS, CUMS+QUE, and CUMS+Fluoxetine (FLX). The body weight of the mice was measured during the study. Then, depression-associated behaviors were evaluated using the sucrose preference test (SPT), novelty suppressed feeding test (NSFT), forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST). Apoptosis in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex was determined using flow cytometry. Bcl-2 and Nrf2 protein expressions in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex were also detected. Furthermore, Western blot was used to measure the protein levels of p-ERK, ERK, p-CREB, CREB, and Nrf2 in brain tissues.

RESULTS

QUE or FLX administration increased the body weight of the CUMS mice. Behavioral tests indicated that CUMS mice developed a state of depression, but QUE or FLX treatment improved their depression-associated behaviors. Meanwhile, QUE or FLX treatment decreased apoptosis in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Furthermore, the decreased Nrf2 protein expression, ERK and CREB phosphorylation in CUMS group were enhanced by QUE or FLX administration.

CONCLUSION

QUE could attenuate brain apoptosis in mice with CUMS-induced depression, and the mechanism may be related to the ERK/Nrf2 pathway, indicating that QUE could be a potential treatment for depression.

Research Advances in Stem Cell Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common clinical condition that mainly affects men aged over 40 years. Various causes contribute to the progression of ED, including pelvic nerve injury, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, age, Peyronie's disease, smoking, and psychological disorders. Current treatments for ED are limited to symptom relief and do not address the root cause. Stem cells, with their powerful ability to proliferate and differentiate, are a promising approach for the treatment of male ED and are gradually gaining widespread attention. Current uses for treating ED have been studied primarily in experimental animals, with most studies observing improvements in erectile quality as well as improvements in erectile tissue. However, research on stem cell therapy for human ED is still limited. This article summarizes the recent literature on basic stem cell research on ED, including cavernous nerve injury, aging, diabetes, and sclerosing penile disease, and describes mechanisms of action and therapeutic effects of various stem cell therapies in experimental animals. Stem cells are also believed to interact with host tissue in a paracrine manner, and improved function can be supported through both implantation and paracrine factors. To date, stem cells have shown some preliminary promising results in animal and human models of ED.

Probucol-bile acid based nanoparticles protect auditory cells from oxidative stress: an in vitro study

Aim: Excessive free radicals contribute to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). The antioxidant probucol holds promise, but its limited bioavailability and inner ear barriers hinder effective SNHL treatment. Methodology: We addressed this by developing probucol-loaded nanoparticles with polymers and lithocholic acid and tested them on House Ear Institute-Organ of Corti cells. Results: Probucol-based nanoparticles effectively reduced oxidative stress-induced apoptosis, enhanced cellular viability, improved probucol uptake and promoted mitochondrial function. Additionally, they demonstrated the capacity to reduce reactive oxygen species through the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 pathway. Conclusion: This innovative nanoparticle system holds the potential to prevent oxidative stress-related hearing impairment, providing an effective solution for SNHL.

3,6'-Disinapoyl sucrose alleviates cognitive deficits in APP/PS1 transgenic mice

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with insidious onset and progressive development. There is an urgent need to find drugs that prevent and slow AD progression. We focus our attention on 3,6'-disinapoyl sucrose (DISS), an oligosaccharide with antidepressant and antioxidant activities. In this work, APP/PS1 transgenic mice were used to explore the neuroprotective impact of DISS to provide new applications for prevention and therapy of AD. This study aims to assess DISS's neuroprotective impact on learning and memory deficits in APP/PS1 transgenic mice using behavioral tests (Morris water maze, novel object recognition test, and passive avoidance test). Morphological alterations of hippocampus neurons were observed by Nissl staining and neuronal apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL assay. By using ELISA, the expressions of inflammatory factors were evaluated, and Western blotting was used to measure the protein expressions of neuron-related regulators in the hippocampus. DISS significantly ameliorated the cognitive disorder in APP/PS1 transgenic mice, reduced apoptosis by decreasing the ratio of Bax/B-cell lymphoma/leukemia-2 (Bcl-2) in hippocampal neurons, and restored the abnormal secretion of inflammatory factors (IL-2, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6). Moreover, the gavage of high-dose DISS can boost the expressions of CREB/brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Overall, our results indicate that DISS improves cognitive function in APP/PS1 transgenic mice by inhibiting neural apoptosis and activating the CREB/BDNF signal pathway.NEW & NOTEWORTHY In this study, for the first time, DISS was used in APP/PS1 transgenic mice to explore its neuroprotective effect. After gavage DISS for 1 mo, the impairment of learning and spatial memory ability and the loss of neurons in APP/PS1 mice were alleviated. DISS reduced a neuroprotective effect in AD mice via decreasing neuronal apoptosis, enhancing the expressions of CREB phosphorylation and BDNF, pointing to DISS as a new therapeutic target for AD.

Long non‑coding RNA L13Rik promotes high glucose-induced mesangial cell hypertrophy and matrix protein expression by regulating miR-2861/CDKN1B axis

Background

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a frequent microvascular complication of diabetes. Glomerular mesangial cell (MC) hypertrophy occurs at the initial phase of DN and plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of DN. Given the role of long non coding RNA (lncRNA) in regulating MC hypertrophy and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation, our aim was to identify functional lncRNAs during MC hypertrophy.

Methods

Here, an lncRNA, C920021L13Rik (L13Rik for short), was identified to be up-regulated in DN progression. The expression of L13Rik in DN patients and diabetic mice was assessed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and the function of L13Rik in regulating HG-induced MC hypertrophy and ECM accumulation was assessed through flow cytometry and western blotting analysis.

Results

The L13Rik levels were significantly increased while the miR-2861 levels were decreased in the peripheral blood of DN patients, the renal tissues of diabetic mice, and HG-treated MCs. Functionally, both L13Rik depletion and miR-2861 overexpression effectively reduced HG-induced cell hypertrophy and ECM accumulation. Mechanistically, L13Rik functioned as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to sponge miR-2861, resulting in the de-repression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B (CDKN1B), a gene known to regulate cell cycle and MC hypertrophy.

Conclusions

Collectively, the current results demonstrate that up-regulated L13Rik is correlated with DN and may be a hopeful therapeutic target for DN.

Autophagy, a critical element in the aging male reproductive disorders and prostate cancer: a therapeutic point of view

Autophagy is a highly conserved, lysosome-dependent biological mechanism involved in the degradation and recycling of cellular components. There is growing evidence that autophagy is related to male reproductive biology, particularly spermatogenic and endocrinologic processes closely associated with male sexual and reproductive health. In recent decades, problems such as decreasing sperm count, erectile dysfunction, and infertility have worsened. In addition, reproductive health is closely related to overall health and comorbidity in aging men. In this review, we will outline the role of autophagy as a new player in aging male reproductive dysfunction and prostate cancer. We first provide an overview of the mechanisms of autophagy and its role in regulating male reproductive cells. We then focus on the link between autophagy and aging-related diseases. This is followed by a discussion of therapeutic strategies targeting autophagy before we end with limitations of current studies and suggestions for future developments in the field.

Identifying potential cross-talk signatures for the occurrence of atherosclerosis in diabetic erectile dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Erectile dysfunction and atherosclerosis are common cardiovascular complications in diseases. Clinical associations between erectile dysfunction and atherosclerosis have been noticed, but the specific mechanisms are not illustrated adequately.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to further mine associated pathological mechanisms and genetic alterations of atherosclerosis in diabetes mellitus-related erectile dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Significant atherosclerosis-related genes were identified from transcriptome data of diabetes mellitus-related erectile dysfunction and atherosclerosis-related gene sets from DisGeNET and GeneCard databases. Functional enrichment and immune infiltration analyses were performed to clarify the biological roles and pathways as well as immune responses of significant atherosclerosis-related gene sets. A protein-protein interaction network was constructed, and gene clusters were performed. Then, data of diabetic plaques and high-glucose cavernosum endothelial cells were analyzed for validation. And hub atherosclerosis-related gene sets were identified. Finally, expressed pattern of hub atherosclerosis-related gene sets were explored by single-cell profiling and immune analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 202 significant atherosclerosis-related gene sets including 100 upregulated and 102 downregulated genes were identified. These genes were related to endothelial cell migration, inflammatory response, regulation of oxidative stress, and immune response. In immune infiltration, immature dendritic cells and monocytes showed differential expression between the diabetes mellitus-related erectile dysfunction and control groups, A protein-protein interaction network containing 135 nodes was constructed. A hub atherosclerosis-related gene set signature consisting of HBEGF, LOX, NQO1, and VLDLR was obtained by multi-omics validation. In addition, Functional enrichment analysis revealed that hub atherosclerosis-related gene sets were involved in oxidoreductase activity and extracellular matrix organization.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

We explored atherosclerosis-related genetic changes and signaling pathways in diabetes mellitus-related erectile dysfunction. HBEGF, LOX, NQO1, and VLDLR were identified as hub atherosclerosis-related gene sets. These may serve as potential biomarkers for the clinical management of atherosclerosis and preventing further cardiovascular risks in diabetes mellitus-related erectile dysfunction.

Fermented Gynochthodes officinalis (F.C.How) Razafim. & B.Bremer alleviates diabetic erectile dysfunction by attenuating oxidative stress and regulating PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As a traditional Chinese medicine, Gynochthodes officinalis (F.C.How) Razafim. & B.Bremer (G. officinalis) has been historically as tonics to treat impotence. Fermentation is an ancient processing method for traditional Chinese medicine. Whether fermentation affects the therapeutic effects of G. officinalis on diabetic erectile dysfunction has so far remained unknown.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

In this research, we aim to determine the effect of fermented or unfermented G. officinalis root extract on diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED) and the potential mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Candida sp. B5, Lactobacillus sp. Y5 and Lactobacillus sp. R2 are applied for the fermentation of G. officinalis. The optimum fermentation conditions of G. officinalis are investigated. Sprague-Dawley rats were used to establish a diabetic erectile dysfunction model, treated with different concentrations of fermented or unfermented G. officinalis, to compare the effect of fermented or unfermented G. officinalis on DMED and explore underlying mechanisms by assessment of intracavernous pressure, ELISA, Western blot, Masson's trichrome staining, and immunofluorescence. The corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) and Schwann cells were isolated and used to investigate the effect of fermented or unfermented G. officinalis on hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced apoptosis.

RESULTS

The results reveal the optimum fermentation conditions of G. officinalis using Lactobacillus sp. Y5 were determined to be 35 °C, the ratio of solid to liquid 1:10, and six days of fermentation. The fermentation increases the abundance of major active ingredients within G. officinalis. After fermented or unfermented G. officinalis treatment for eight weeks by oral gavage at a dose of 100 mg kg^-1 or 300 mg kg^-1, the results show that the fermentation enhances the effect of G. officinalis on diabetic erectile dysfunction detected by intracavernous pressure. The protein expressions of the PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway were upregulated in diabetic rats after fermented or unfermented G. officinalis treatment, while the level of oxidative stress was significantly reduced. Meanwhile, Masson's trichrome staining also displayed an improvement in the ratio of smooth muscle to collagen. In vitro experiments confirmed that fermented or unfermented G. officinalis protected CCSMCs and Schwann cells from apoptosis. In contrast, fermented G. officinalis showed a fortified protective effect over unfermented G. officinalis.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that fermentation can increase the composition of main active ingredients in G. officinalis and enhance its role in diabetic erectile dysfunction. It augurs the potential therapeutic application of fermented G. officinalis well for treating diabetic erectile dysfunction.

Probucol suppresses osteoclastogenesis via activating Nrf2 signaling and ameliorates ovariectomy-induced bone loss

Osteoporosis is a systemic and endocrine bone disorder distinguished by declined bone mineral density, compromised bone strength, and destruction of trabecular structure. The abnormally excessive osteoclastogenesis and bone erosion play imperative roles in the progression of osteoporosis. However, treatment of osteoporosis is far from satisfactory due to poor adherence to existing medications and adverse reactions, there is an urgent to develop novel therapies for osteoporosis. Probucol, a synthetic compound with two characteristic phenolic rings, owns anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Accumulating evidence have indicated that intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) is closely related to osteoclastogenesis. Hence, we investigated the potential effects of probucol on osteoclastogenesis in vivo and in vitro. In this study, TRAP staining and bone slice resorption assay showed that probucol suppressed RANKL-induced osteoclast formation and function. The mRNA and protein levels of osteoclastogenesis marker genes were reduced by probucol in a concentration-dependent manner. Besides, probucol suppressed osteoclast differentiation by inhibiting ROS production, MAPKs and NF-κB signaling pathways, while Nrf2 silencing reversed the inhibitory effect of probucol on osteoclast formation and function. Consistent with the above findings, in vivo experiments demonstrated that probucol visibly alleviated bone loss caused by estrogen deficiency. In brief, these results showed the potential of anti-oxidant compound probucol in the treatment of osteoporosis, highlighting Nrf2 as a promising target in osteoclast-related disease.

Engineered Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Overexpressing RXFP1 via CRISPR Activation Ameliorate Erectile Dysfunction in Diabetic Rats

Due to the high incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and poor response to the first-line treatment of DM-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED), new therapeutic strategies for DMED are needed. Adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) transplantation is considered a promising treatment modality for DMED but is limited by poor survival and efficacy after transplantation. In this study, we aimed to increase the therapeutic effect of DMED by overexpressing the relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1) using a clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats activation (CRISPRa) system in ADSCs. Two lentiviruses carrying the CRISPRa system transfected ADSCs to overexpress RXFP1 (RXFP1-ADSCs). The intracavernous injection of ADSCs was performed in DMED rats induced by the intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Four weeks after transplantation, we measured erectile function and collected specimens of the corpus cavernosum for follow-up detection. The results showed that ADSCs improved erectile function in diabetic rats, and the RXFP1-ADSCs were more significant. We detected reduced levels of oxidative stress, apoptosis and fibrosis together with relative normalization of endothelial and smooth muscle cell function in the penis after ADSC transplantation. RXFP1-ADSCs had more potent efficacy in the above alterations compared to negative control ADSCs due to the high levels of survival and paracrine capacity in RXFP1-ADSCs. The results revealed that RXFP1-ADSC transplantation could partially preserve erectile function in DMED rats associated with the regulation of oxidative stress, apoptosis, fibrosis and endothelial and smooth muscle cell dysfunction. RXFP1 may be the new target for the genetic modification of ADSCs, which benefits the management of DMED.

The role of microRNAs in erectile dysfunction: From pathogenesis to therapeutic potential

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common male sexual dysfunction disease, and it was predicted that the number of ED patients worldwide will reach 322 million by 2025. However, the pathogenesis of ED is complex and the current treatment options are still limited, so it is urgent to explore new treatment strategies. Recent studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in ED, and these single-stranded non-coding small RNA molecules are involved in key pathophysiological processes in the occurrence and development of ED. Therefore, miRNAs have remarkable potential as therapeutic targets in ED. Here, this review introduces the physiological basis of erectile function and the pathophysiological changes in ED and summarizes the current knowledge on the expression, biological functions, and molecular mechanisms of miRNAs in ED, especially the potential of miRNA-targeted therapies to improve ED. This review will provide a comprehensive view of the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of ED and the potential value of miRNAs in the treatment of ED.

GPX4 Alleviates Diabetes Mellitus-Induced Erectile Dysfunction by Inhibiting Ferroptosis

Pharmacological therapy of diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED) is intractable owig to the poor response to phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i). The surge in the number of diabetic patients makes it extremely urgent to find a novel therapy for DMED. Ferroptosis is a recently discovered form of cell death evoked by lipid peroxidation and is related to several diabetic complications. GPX4, an important phospholipid hydroperoxidase, can alleviate ferroptosis and maintain redox balance via reducing lipid peroxides. However, whether GPX4 can be a prospective target of DMED needs to be determined. Fifty rats were randomly divided into control group, DMED group, DMED + negative control group (DMED + NC group), DMED + low-dose group (1 × 10⁶ infectious units), and DMED + high-dose group (2 × 10⁶ infectious units). Erectile function was assessed 4 weeks after intracavernous injection of GPX4 or negative control lentivirus. The penile shafts were collected for subsequent molecular biological and histological analysis. The results demonstrated that erectile function of the rats in DMED and DMED + NC groups was extremely impaired and was improved in a dose-dependent manner with GPX4 lentivirus (GPX4-LV) injection. Additionally, upregulation of the ACSL4-LPCAT3-LOX pathway, iron overload, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and decreased endothelial and smooth muscle cell numbers were observed in the corpus cavernosum of DMED group. Meanwhile, the nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway was inhibited, and the Ras homolog gene family member A (RhoA)/Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) pathway was promoted in DMED rats. The above histologic alterations and related molecular changes were alleviated after GPX4-LV injection. The results revealed that GPX4 improved erectile function by modulating ferroptosis during DMED progression. This finding is of paramount significance in deciphering the molecular mechanism of hyperglycemia-induced ferroptosis, thereby providing a prospective target for preventing the development of DMED.

Traditional chinese medicine to prevent and treat diabetic erectile dysfunction

Diabetic erectile dysfunction (DED) is one of the most common complications of diabetes mellitus. However, current therapeutics have no satisfactory effect on DED. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has shown good effects against DED. By now, several clinical trials have been conducted to study the effect of TCM in treating DED; yet, the underlying mechanism is not fully investigated. Therefore, in this review, we briefly summarized the pathophysiological mechanism of DED and reviewed the published clinical trials on the treatment of DED by TCM. Then, the therapeutic potential of TCM and the underlying mechanisms whereby TCM exerts protective effects were summarized. We concluded that TCM is more effective than chemical drugs in treating DED by targeting multiple signaling pathways, including those involved in oxidation, apoptosis, atherosclerosis, and endothelial function. However, the major limitation in the application of TCM against DED is the lack of a large-scale, multicenter, randomized, and controlled clinical trial on the therapeutic effect, and the underlying pharmaceutical mechanisms also need further investigation. Despite these limitations, clinical trials and further experimental studies will enhance our understanding of the mechanisms modulated by TCM and promote the widespread application of TCM to treat DED.

Probucol promotes osteoblasts differentiation and prevents osteoporosis development through reducing oxidative stress

Probucol (PBC) is a potent cholesterol-lowering drug and has been studied extensively for its powerful antioxidative stress. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of PBC in ovariectomized rat model and to explore the mechanism of osteogenic differentiation of MC3TE-E1 Cells. RT-qPCR and Immunofluorescence were used to measure the expression level of SOD2, SIRT1, intracellular oxidative stress levels and osteogenic markers proteins. Moreover, CCK-8 assay was conducted to detect cell viability. Alizarin red staining and alkaline phosphatase staining were applied to examine osteogenic function and calcium deposits. The ovariectomized rat model was set up successfully and HE staining were employed to examine femoral trabeculae tissue. Our results showed that PBC suppressed MC3TE-E1 resist oxidative stress to promote osteogenic differentiation. Additionally, it was confirmed that PBC promoted osteogenic differentiation of MC3TE-E1 through inhibiting oxidative stress. Further study indicated that PBC exerted its beneficial function by suppressing oxidative stress-mediated alter bone metabolism to alleviate osteoporosis in vivo. Our research suggested that the PBC-modulated oxidative stress inhibition is responsible for activation of the process of osteogenic differentiation, providing a novel insight into the treatment of osteoporosis.

Trigonella foenum-graecum L. and Psoralea corylifolia L. Improve Erectile Dysfunction in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats through Suppression of Oxidative Stress

Background

Diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED) is one of the most common complications of diabetes and is mainly attributed to oxidative stress. Hu-Lu-Ba-Wan (HLBW) is a classic Chinese formulation consisting of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (TFG) and Psoralea corylifolia L. (PC). HLBW has been used not only for the treatment of diabetes but also for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in clinics. This study aimed to explore the efficacy and underlying mechanism of HLBW in ameliorating erectile function in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Methods

The diabetic model was established by tail vein injection of streptozotocin (26 mg/kg), and then DMED rats screened by the apomorphine test were randomly divided into two groups: the model group and the HLBW group. The rats in the HLBW group were administered HLBW granules daily for 12 weeks. Fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin were tested by a commercial kit. Intracavernous pressure (ICP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were measured by cavernous nerve electrostimulation before the rats were killed. Erectile function was evaluated with ICP/MAP. The markers of oxidative stress in the corpus cavernosum (CC) were assayed by assay kits. Apoptosis in cavernosal tissue was detected by Western blotting (WB). The expression levels of vascular endothelial marker (vWF), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and NADPH oxidase subunit P47^phox were determined by WB and PCR. Furthermore, the structure of the CC was further confirmed by Masson's trichrome staining.

Results

The results showed that HLBW significantly reduced blood glucose and increased insulin sensitivity. HLBW reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis. In addition, we observed that the expression levels of vWF, α-SMA, and eNOS as well as the ratio of smooth muscle to collagen increased in the HLBW group.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that HLBW could reduce oxidative stress damage in CC to improve diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction in rats by inhibiting NADPH oxidase.

Erectile dysfunction in hypospadiac male adult rats induced by maternal exposure to di-n-butyl phthalate

For the treatment of hypospadias, a significant number of studies focus on penile reconstruction. However, scant attention is given to sexual behavior of hypospadiac patients and underlying mechanisms. A rat model of hypospadias was constructed by maternal di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) exposure (800 mg/kg/day by gavage during gestational days 14-18). Ten-week-old male rats with hypospadias undertook significantly decreased penis/body weight ratio, reduced testis/body weight ratio, lower serum testosterone level and thinner myelin sheath thickness of cavernosum nerves. Meanwhile, erectile dysfunction (ED) was found in hypospadiac rats, which showed significant increases in transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) protein expression and decreases in the expression of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein, neuronal and endothelial nitric oxide synthase protein (nNOS and eNOS). In addition, phosphorylated protein kinase B/protein kinase B (pAkt/Akt) ratios were remarkably lower, but the Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax)/Bcl-2 ratios, caspase-3 protein expression, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/ Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Nrf2/Keap-1) ratios, NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone 1(NQO1) protein expression and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein expression were higher in the hypospadias groups than the control group. Notably, ED is comorbid with hypospadias in cases. Penile fibrosis, testosterone deficiency, and endothelial dysfunction lead to ED in hypospadias induced by DBP eventually, which might be explained by activating Akt/Bad/Bax/caspase-3 pathway, Nrf2/Keap-1 pathway and suppressing NOS/cGMP pathway in penis.

Cell-Based Antioxidant Properties and Synergistic Effects of Natural Plant and Algal Extracts Pre and Post Intestinal Barrier Transport

In this work, both direct and indirect cell-based antioxidant profiles were established for 27 plant extracts and 1 algal extract. To evaluate the direct antioxidant effects, fluorescent AOP1 cell assay was utilized, which measures the ability of different samples to neutralize intracellular free radicals produced by a cell-based photo-induction process. As the intestinal barrier is the first cell line crossed by the product, dose response curves obtained from Caco-2 cells were used to establish EC50 values for 26 out of the 28 natural extracts. Among them, 11 extracts from Vitis, Hamamelis, Syzygium, Helichrysum, Ilex and Ribes genera showed remarkable EC50s in the range of 10 µg/mL. In addition to this, a synergistic effect was found when combinations of the most potent extracts (S. aromaticum, H. italicum, H. virginiana, V. vinifera) were utilized compared to extracts alone. Indirect antioxidant activities (i.e., the ability of cells to trigger antioxidant defenses) were studied using the ARE/Nrf2 luminescence reporter-gene assay in HepG2 cells, as liver is the first organ crossed by an edible ingredient once it enters in the bloodstream. Twelve extracts were subjected to an intestinal epithelial barrier passage in order to partially mimic intestinal absorption and show whether basolateral compartments could maintain direct or indirect antioxidant properties. Using postepithelial barrier samples and HepG2 cells as a target model, we demonstrate that indirect antioxidant activities are maintained for three extracts, S. aromaticum, H. virginiana and H. italicum. Our experimental work also confirms the synergistic effects of combinations of post-intestinal barrier compartments issued from apical treatment with these three extracts. By combining cell-based assays together with an intestinal absorption process, this study demonstrates the power of cell systems to address the issue of antioxidant effects in humans.

Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improve TGF-β, α-SMA and Collagen on Erectile Dysfunction in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Background

A Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the well-known comorbidities in males with diabetes mellitus (DM), whose pathogenesis might be induced by dysregulation of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells. UC-MSCs are multipotent cells that attract considerable interest due to immunoregulatory properties and might be a potential strategy to regulate and recover the functional cells and tissues, including tissue improvement in DMED.

Objective

This study aims to determine the efficacy of UC-MSCs in improving the erectile function of DMED rats through analyzing the expression of TGF-β, α-SMA, and collagen.

Methods

Total number of 30 male Sprague-Dawley rats (6 to 8 weeks old) were randomly divided into four groups (negative control group, positive control group, T1 group, and T2 group). After 16 h fast, 24 rats were randomly selected and intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin to induce DM. At 8 weeks after STZ injection, rats with DMED were identified by unresponsive erectile stimulation within 30 min. PC group received 500 μL; T1 rats treated with 500 μL PBS containing 1x106 UC-MSCs; T2 rats treated with 500 μL PBS containing 3x106 UC-MSCs. After MSCs treatment, the rats were sacrificed and the corpus cavernosum tissues were prepared for histological observations.

Results

This study resulted in the administration of UC-MSCs could downregulate the expression of TGF-β, α-SMA, and collagen leading to the improvement of DMED.

Conclusion

UC-MSCs improve the expression of TGF-β, α-SMA, and collagen on erectile dysfunction in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells Enhance Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A, Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthetase, and HSP70 Expression in Improving Erectile Dysfunction in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats

This study investigated the therapeutic role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on erectile function in a diabetes mellitus erectile dysfunction (DMED) rat model by analyzing the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthetase (eNOS), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and the 70 kilodalton heat shock proteins (HSP70). MSCs were isolated from umbilical cords (UCs), and their characteristics identified by flow cytometry and osteogenic differentiation analysis. Thirty 8-week-old rats were divided into four groups: sham, control, T1, and T2. After a 16 h fast, 24 rats were randomly selected and intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin (STZ) to induce DM. At 8 weeks after STZ injection, rats with DMED were classified into four groups, sham, control group [DMED rats received 500 μL phosphate buffer saline (PBS)]; T1 [DMED rats treated with 500 μL PBS containing 1 × 106 UC-MSCs]; T2 [DMED rats treated with 500 μL PBS containing 2 × 106 UC-MSCs]. Eight weeks after MSCs administration, the rats’ erectile function was measured by cavernous nerve stimulation. The blinded histological and gene expression assessment were used to analyze the eNOS, HSP70 content, and VEGF expression on the penile tissues. MSCs administration, rats in T1 and T2 groups showed a significant enhancement of erectile response that showed a trend of increase of VEGF mRNA level expression was 2.2 ± 0.61 in T2 Group supported with the optimum recovery of eNOS, in which the value of eNOS expression was 20.66% ± 2.32%. While optimum decrease of HSP70 content, the value of HSP70 expression was 15.50% ± 0.90%. IHC results showed that the DMED induction in rats caused a significant decrease of eNOS content in corpus cavernosum tissue. MSCs could ameliorate DMED in rats by increasing VEGF and decreasing HSP70 and eNOS, indicating these cells offer a potential application for DMED patients’ treatment.