Efficient Promotion of Autophagy and Angiogenesis Using Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy Enhanced by the Low-Energy Shock Waves in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction

Clinical trial update on shockwave therapy and future of erectile function restoration

Our interim analysis of a phase II clinical trial on low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT) for men with erectile dysfunction (ED) has demonstrated it is safe with no reported adverse outcomes. Interim analysis has demonstrated Sexual Encounter Profile 3 (ability to maintain erection till completion) was achieved in 60% of men prior to Li-ESWT, which increased to 90% after treatment. Nevertheless, limitations of our clinical trial include the lack of a sham arm and our inability to exclude men with psychogenic ED. We have begun recruitment of our phase III clinical trial that will allow assessment of treatment efficacy against a sham control arm. There exists substantial interest in the use of restorative therapies (i.e., Li-ESWT, stem cells, and platelet rich plasma) for men with ED with the potential to combine therapies to potentially lead to an augmented response.

Distinct role of autophagy on angiogenesis: highlights on the effect of autophagy in endothelial lineage and progenitor cells

Autophagy plays a critical role in the dynamic growth of each cell through different conditions. It seems that this intracellular mechanism acts as a two-edged sword against the numerous cell insults. Previously, autophagy was described in the context of cell activity and behavior, but little knowledge exists related to the role of autophagy in endothelial cells, progenitors, and stem cells biology from different tissues. Angiogenic behavior of endothelial lineage and various stem cells are touted as an inevitable feature in the restoration of different damaged tissues and organs. This capacity was found to be dictated by autophagy signaling pathway. This review article highlights the fundamental role of cell autophagic response in endothelial cells function, stem cells dynamic, and differentiation rate. It seems that elucidation of the mechanisms related to pro- and/or anti-angiogenic potential of autophagy inside endothelial cells and stem cells could help us to modulate stem cell therapeutic feature post-transplantation.