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Luo C, Peng Y, Gu J, Li T, Wang Q, Qi X, Wei A. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals critical modulators of extracellular matrix of penile cavernous cells in erectile dysfunction. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5886. [PMID: 38467692 PMCID: PMC10928087 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56428-0] [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: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common and difficult to treat disease, and has a high incidence rate worldwide. As a marker of vascular disease, ED usually occurs in cardiovascular disease, 2-5 years prior to cardiovascular disease events. The extracellular matrix (ECM) network plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiac homeostasis, not only by providing structural support, but also by promoting force transmission, and by transducing key signals to intracardiac cells. However, the relationship between ECM and ED remains unclear. To help fill this gap, we profiled single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) to obtain transcriptome maps of 82,554 cavernous single cells from ED and non-ED samples. Cellular composition of cavernous tissues was explored by uniform manifold approximation and projection. Pseudo-time cell trajectory combined with gene enrichment analysis were performed to unveil the molecular pathways of cell fate determination. The relationship between cavernous cells and the ECM, and the changes in related genes were elucidated. The CellChat identified ligand-receptor pairs (e.g., PTN-SDC2, PTN-NCL, and MDK-SDC2) among the major cell types in the cavernous tissue microenvironment. Differential analysis revealed that the cell type-specific transcriptomic changes in ED are related to ECM and extracellular structure organization, external encapsulating structure organization, and regulation of vasculature development. Trajectory analysis predicted the underlying target genes to modulate ECM (e.g., COL3A1, MDK, MMP2, and POSTN). Together, this study highlights potential cell-cell interactions and the main regulatory factors of ECM, and reveals that genes may represent potential marker features of ED progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Luo
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, No. 9 Beijing Road, Yunyan District, Guiyang City, 550004, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yaqian Peng
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, No. 9 Beijing Road, Yunyan District, Guiyang City, 550004, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Jiang Gu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Xiaolan Qi
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, No. 9 Beijing Road, Yunyan District, Guiyang City, 550004, Guizhou Province, China.
| | - Anyang Wei
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, No.1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China.
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Meng Q, Chen Y, Cui L, Wei Y, Li T, Yuan P. Comprehensive analysis of biological landscape of oxidative stress-related genes in diabetic erectile dysfunction. Int J Impot Res 2023:10.1038/s41443-023-00814-1. [PMID: 38145980 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-023-00814-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingjun Meng
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yinwei Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Lingang Cui
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yinsheng Wei
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Teng Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Penghui Yuan
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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Wu YD, Jiang HJ, Zhou HH, Xu JY, Liu Q, Sun XH, Wu YH, Lin ZY. PRP significantly promotes the adhesion and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells on stent material. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:581. [PMID: 38071348 PMCID: PMC10710707 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01541-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The adhesion and survival state of cells on scaffold material is a major problem in tissue-engineered blood vessel (TEBV) culture. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains a large amount of biologically active factors and fibrin, which is expected to play an important role in TEBV culture. PURPOSE To combine PRP with cells and scaffold material to promote cell adhesion and biological activity on the scaffold material. METHODS The adhesion status and migration of SMCs under the optimal concentration suitable for SMC growth and the optimal concentration of PRP were examined by scanning electron microscopy, HE staining, CCK-8 assays, qPCR, WB, and other experimental methods and compared with those under the conventional culture (20% FBS); finally, the effect of PRP on the deposition of ECM in vascular tissue engineering culture was verified by three-dimensional culture. RESULTS PRP at 20% is a suitable concentration for SMCs. Compared with the control group, the 20% PRP group had better migration, and the number of SMC adhesions was significantly higher than that of the control group. In addition, collagen deposition in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group. CONCLUSION PRP (20%) can promote SMC adhesion, migration, and collagen deposition on the scaffold material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Di Wu
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), South Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Hong-Jing Jiang
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), South Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Hao-Hao Zhou
- Ji Hua Institute of Biomedical Engineering Technology, Ji Hua Laboratory, Foshan, 528200, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian-Yi Xu
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Qing Liu
- School of Biological Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Xu-Heng Sun
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Yue-Heng Wu
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), South Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhan-Yi Lin
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), South Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China.
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Xi Y, Ge Y, Hu D, Xia T, Chen J, Zhang C, Cui Y, Xiao H. Caveolin-1 scaffolding domain peptide prevents corpus cavernosum fibrosis and erectile dysfunction in bilateral cavernous nerve injury-induced rats. J Sex Med 2023; 20:1274-1284. [PMID: 37724695 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdad108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corpus cavernosum (CC) fibrosis significantly contributes to post-radical prostatectomy erectile dysfunction (pRP-ED). Caveolin-1 scaffolding domain (CSD)-derived peptide has gained significant concern as a potent antagonist of tissue fibrosis. However, applying CSD peptide on bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI)-induced rats remains uninvestigated. AIM The aim was to explore the therapeutic outcome and underlying mechanism of CSD peptide for preventing ED in BCNI rats according to the hypothesis that CSD peptide may exert beneficial effects on erectile tissue and function following BCNI through limiting collagen synthesis in CC smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) and CC fibrosis. METHODS After completing a random assignment of male Sprague Dawley rats (10 weeks of age), BCNI rats received either saline or CSD peptide treatment, as opposed to sham-operated rats. The evaluations of erectile function (EF) and succedent collection and histological and molecular biological examinations of penile tissue were accomplished 3 weeks postoperatively. In addition, the fibrotic model of CCSMCs was used to further explore the mechanism of CSD peptide action in vitro. OUTCOMES The assessments of EF, SMC/collagen ratio, α-smooth muscle actin, caveolin-1 (CAV1), and profibrotic indicators expressions were conducted. RESULTS BCNI rats exhibited significant decreases in EF, SMC/collagen ratio, α-SMA, and CAV1 levels, and increases in collagen content together with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/Smad2 activity. However, impaired EF, activated CC fibrosis, and Smad2 signaling were attenuated after 3 weeks of CSD peptide treatment in BCNI rats. In vitro, TGF-β1-induced CCSMCs underwent fibrogenetic transformation characterized by lower expression of CAV1, higher collagen composition, and phosphorylation of Smad2; then, the delivery of CSD peptide could significantly block CCSMC fibrosis by inactivating Smad2 signaling. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Based on available evidence of CSD peptide in the prevention of ED in BCNI rats, this study can aid in the development and clinical application of CSD peptide targeting pRP-ED. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This study provides data to suggest that CSD peptide protects against BCNI-induced deleterious alterations in EF and CC tissues. However, the available evidence still does not fully clarify the detailed mechanism of action of CSD peptide. CONCLUSION Administration of CSD peptide significantly retarded collagen synthesis in CCSMCs, limited CC fibrosis, and prevented ED via confrontation of TGF-β1/Smad signaling in BCNI rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Xi
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 020-510000, China
| | - Yunlong Ge
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 020-510000, China
| | - Daoyuan Hu
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 020-510000, China
- Department of Urology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 020-510000, China
| | - Tian Xia
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 020-510000, China
| | - Jialiang Chen
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 020-510000, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 020-510000, China
| | - Yubin Cui
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 020-510000, China
| | - Hengjun Xiao
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 020-510000, China
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Yuan P, Sun T, Han Z, Chen Y. Identifying potential cross-talk signatures for the occurrence of atherosclerosis in diabetic erectile dysfunction. Andrology 2023; 11:1031-1043. [PMID: 36542411 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penghui Yuan
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Taotao Sun
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhengyang Han
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yinwei Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Liu K, Sun T, Xu W, Song J, Chen Y, Ruan Y, Li H, Cui K, Zhang Y, Feng Y, Pan J, Liang E, Xin Z, Wang T, Wang S, Liu J, Luan Y. Relaxin-2 Prevents Erectile Dysfunction by Cavernous Nerve, Endothelial and Histopathological Protection Effects in Rats with Bilateral Cavernous Nerve Injury. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:434-445. [PMID: 36047071 PMCID: PMC10042645 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220003] [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: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Cavernous nerve injury induced erectile dysfunction (ED) is a refractory complication with high incidence in person under radical prostatectomy. Studies have shown that relaxin-2 (RLX-2) plays a vital role of endothelial protection, vasodilation, anti-fibrosis and neuroprotection in a variety of diseases. However, whether penile cavernous erection can benefit from RLX-2 remains unknown. The purpose of the experiment was to explore the effects of RLX-2 on ED in the rat suffering with bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI). MATERIALS AND METHODS The rats were divided into three groups: Sham group was underwent sham operation, BCNI+RLX group or BCNI group was underwent bilateral cavernous nerve crush and then randomly treated with RLX-2 (0.4 mg/kg/d) or saline by continuous administration using a subcutaneously implanted micro pump for 4 weeks respectively. Then, erectile function was evaluated by electrical stimulation of cavernous nerves. Cavernous nerves and penile tissues and were collected for histological evaluation. RESULTS Erectile function of rats with BCNI was partially improved after RLX-2 treatment. The BCNI group had lower expression of relaxin family peptide receptor (RXFP) 1, p-AKT/AKT, p-eNOS/eNOS ratios than sham operation rats, but RLX-2 could partially reversed these changes. Histologically, the BCNI+RLX group had a significant effect on preservation of neurofilament, neuronal glial antigen 2 of penile tissue and nNOS of cavernous nerves when compared with BCNI group. RLX-2 could inhibited the lever of BCNI induced corporal fibrosis and apoptosis via regulating TGFβ1-Smad2/3-CTGF pathway and the expression of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, caspase3. CONCLUSIONS RLX-2 could improve erectile function of BCNI rats by protecting cavernous nerve and endothelial function and suppressing corporal fibrosis and apoptosis via RXFP1 and AKT/eNOS pathway. Our findings may provide a promising treatment for refractory BCNI induced ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Liu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Taotao Sun
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wenchao Xu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jingyu Song
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yinwei Chen
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yajun Ruan
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Kai Cui
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yuhong Feng
- Male Reproductive and Sexual Medicine, Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiancheng Pan
- Male Reproductive and Sexual Medicine, Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Enli Liang
- Male Reproductive and Sexual Medicine, Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhongcheng Xin
- Male Reproductive and Sexual Medicine, Department of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shaogang Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jihong Liu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yang Luan
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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Wang Y, Zhang X, Chen Y, Zhu B, Xing Q. Identification of hub biomarkers and exploring the roles of immunity, M6A, ferroptosis, or cuproptosis in rats with diabetic erectile dysfunction. Andrology 2023; 11:316-331. [PMID: 35975587 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently, patients with diabetic erectile dysfunction (DMED) were not satisfied with the effects of first-line phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5Is). Hence, this paper was designed to mine hub biomarkers in DMED and explore its potential mechanisms. METHODS Gene expression matrix of DMED was downloaded from the gene expression omnibus (GEO; GSE2457) dataset. The top 20 genes were selected based on the connectivity degrees in protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Functional enrichment analysis was utilized to reveal DMED-related signaling pathways. We also explored the roles of immunity, m6A, ferroptosis, or cuproptosis in DMED and constructed Sprague Dawley (SD) rats DMED model to verify gene expressions by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RESULTS Based on the threshold, a total of 122 differently expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in DMED, including 39 up-regulated and 83 down-regulated genes. Functional enrichment analysis implied that these DEGs were significantly enriched in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, ferroptosis, hypoxia-inducible factor 1 signaling pathways, and so on. SD rats DMED model was also successfully established by us and validated by intracavernous pressure/mean arterial pressure, Masson's trichrome staining, and immunohistochemical analysis. We further verified the expression of these top 20 genes from the PPI network by qRT-PCR in the SD rats DMED model and finally identified Sparc, Lox, Srebf1, and Mmp3 as hub biomarkers (all p < 0.05). As for immunity and cuproptosis, our analysis indicated that DMED had nothing to do with them (all p > 0.05). Actually, DMED was markedly associated with m6A regulators and ferroptosis. CONCLUSIONS We identified Sparc, Lox, Srebf1, and Mmp3 as potential hub biomarkers in the SD rats DMED model for future drug development and found its significant associations with m6A regulators and ferroptosis, but not with immunity or cuproptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China.,Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyu Zhang
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yinhao Chen
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Bingye Zhu
- Department of Urology, The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong, Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University, Nantong, China
| | - Qianwei Xing
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
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8
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Cui Y, Wang Y, Men C, Wu J, Liu L. Bioinformatics-Based Identification of Potential Hypoxia-Related Genes Associated With Peyronie's Disease. Am J Mens Health 2022; 16:15579883221111720. [PMID: 35894424 PMCID: PMC9340336 DOI: 10.1177/15579883221111720] [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] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is one of the most important predisposing conditions for Peyronie’s disease (PD)
and the pathogenetic mechanism is yet to be completely elucidated. This study applied
bioinformatic approaches to select candidate hypoxia-related genes involved in the
pathogenesis of PD. The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) data set GSE146500 was introduced to
compare the transcriptional profiling between normal and PD samples. The differential
expression of hypoxia-related gene was determined with R software. On the selected
candidate genes, further functional analyses were applied, including protein–protein
interactions (PPIs), gene correlation, gene ontology (GO), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes
and Genomes (KEGG) pathway. A total of 66 candidate genes (24 candidates overexpressed in
PD and 42 showing reduced expression in PD) were distinguished according to the
differential expression between human fibroblast cells from normal and PD patients. The
interactions among these candidate genes were recognized according to PPI analysis. The
functional enrichment analyses revealed the potential modulatory functions of the
candidate genes in some major biological processes, especially in
glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and carbon metabolism. The findings would facilitate further
study on the pathogenesis of PD, which might consequently promote the improvement of
clinical strategies against PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanshan Cui
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Yajuan Wang
- Department of Admission Center, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Changping Men
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Jitao Wu
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, China
| | - Lingling Liu
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, China
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Zhang Z, Nie P, Yang W, Ma X, Chen Z, Wei H. Lipopolysaccharide-preconditioned allogeneic adipose-derived stem cells improve erectile function in a rat model of bilateral cavernous nerve injury. Basic Clin Androl 2022; 32:5. [PMID: 35337262 PMCID: PMC8953072 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-022-00156-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Erectile dysfunction (ED) often occurs due to cavernous nerve injury (CNI) after colorectal surgery. Cell-based therapies have great potential for the treatment of CNI-related ED; however, it needs to be optimised. In this study, we explored the therapeutic effects of lipopolysaccharide-preconditioned allogeneic adipose-derived stem cells (L-ADSCs) on CNI-induced ED in rats. Results The results of this in vitro study revealed that low-dose lipopolysaccharide could increase the viability of ADSCs, inhibit caspase 3 activation induced by hydrogen peroxide and promote cell migration. Compared with the ADSC supernatant, the L-ADSC supernatant could better reduce fibrosis in the corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells induced by transforming growth factor-beta 1 protein. In the in vivo study, it was compared to ADSCs therapy, where the L-ADSCs therapy indicated that could better improve erectile function by increasing smooth muscle content and alleviating penile fibrosis in rats 2 weeks after CNI. The outcome may be related to the increase in the hepatocyte growth factor content in the corpus cavernosum and myelin basic protein in the major pelvic ganglion. Conclusions L-ADSC treatment may be a promising approach for restoring erectile function after CNI. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12610-022-00156-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenbin Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510630, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pan Nie
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510630, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wende Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510630, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaolei Ma
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510630, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zehong Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510630, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongbo Wei
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510630, Guangzhou, China.
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Miyata Y, Matsuo T, Nakamura Y, Mitsunari K, Ohba K, Sakai H. Pathological Significance of Macrophages in Erectile Dysfunction Including Peyronie's Disease. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111658. [PMID: 34829887 PMCID: PMC8615952 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111658] [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: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Erectile function is regulated by complex mechanisms centered on vascular- and nerve-related systems. Hence, dysregulation of these systems leads to erectile dysfunction (ED), which causes mental distress and decreases the quality of life of patients and their partners. At the molecular level, many factors, such as fibrosis, lipid metabolism abnormalities, the immune system, and stem cells, play crucial roles in the etiology and development of ED. Although phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are currently the standard treatment agents for patients with ED, they are effective only in a subgroup of patients. Therefore, further insight into the pathological mechanism underlying ED is needed to discuss ED treatment strategies. In this review, we focused on the biological and pathological significance of macrophages in ED because the interaction of macrophages with ED-related mechanisms have not been well explored, despite their important roles in vasculogenic and neurogenic diseases. Furthermore, we examined the pathological significance of macrophages in Peyronie’s disease (PD), a cause of ED characterized by penile deformation (visible curvature) during erection and pain. Although microinjury and the subsequent abnormal healing process of the tunica albuginea are known to be important processes in this disease, the detailed etiology and pathophysiology of PD are not fully understood. This is the first review on the pathological role of macrophages in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tomohiro Matsuo
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-95-819-7340; Fax: +81-95-819-7343
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11
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Wu J, Chen Z, Zhong F, Yang W, Ouyang X, Ma X, Zheng S, Wei H. Transplantation of Human Gingiva-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Ameliorates Neurotic Erectile Dysfunction in a Rat Model. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:630076. [PMID: 34235136 PMCID: PMC8255925 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.630076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cavernous nerve injury (CNI) is the main cause of erectile dysfunction (ED) following pelvic surgery. Our previous studies have demonstrated that transplantation of different sources of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) was able to alleviate ED induced by CNI in rat models. However, little is known about the therapeutic effects of human gingiva-derived MSCs (hGMSCs) in CNI ED rats. Herein, we injected the hGMSCs around the bilateral major pelvic ganglia (MPG) in a rat model of CNI and evaluated their efficacy. The results showed that treatment of hGMSCs could significantly promote the recovery of erectile function, enhance smooth muscle and endothelial content, restore neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression, and attenuate cell apoptosis in penile tissue. Moreover, penile fibrosis was significantly alleviated after hGMSC administration. In addition, potential mechanism exploration indicated that hGMSCs might exert its functions via skewed macrophage polarity from M1 toward M2 anti-inflammatory phenotype. In conclusion, this study found that transplantation of hGMSCs significantly improved CNI-related ED, which might provide new clues to evaluate their pre-clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juekun Wu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zehong Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fuyan Zhong
- Central Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wende Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Ouyang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiaolei Ma
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Songguo Zheng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Hongbo Wei
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Ma M, Wu CJ, Zhang P, Li T, Wei SZ, Yu BT, Qin F, Yuan JH. N-acetylcysteine maintains penile length and erectile function in bilateral cavernous nerve crush rat model by reducing penile fibrosis. Asian J Androl 2021; 23:215-221. [PMID: 32394901 PMCID: PMC7991820 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_17_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Penile length shortening and erectile dysfunction are common complications after radical prostatectomy. Various methods have been used to maintain erectile function, but less attention has been paid to preserving penis length. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has the effect of antioxidation and antifibrotic, which may be beneficial to improve those postoperative complications. This study investigated the effect of NAC on maintaining the penile length and the erectile function after bilateral cavernous nerve crush (BCNC) and its underlying mechanism. Twenty-four male rats were randomly divided into three groups: control group, BCNC group, and BCNC + NAC group. NAC or equal volume of saline was daily administrated by intragastric gavage for 4 weeks. The initial and end penile lengths were measured. Intracavernosal pressure/mean arterial pressure (ICP/MAP) ratio was calculated to assess erectile function. Hematoxylin–eosin staining, Masson's trichrome staining, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot were performed to explore cellular and molecular changes of the penis. Compared to the BCNC group, the penile length, ICP/MAP ratio and smooth muscle/collagen ratio in the BCNC + NAC group were improved significantly (all P < 0.05), and the expressions of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, α-smooth muscle actin, glutathione, and glutathione peroxidase 1 were significantly increased after NAC treated (all P < 0.05), along with the decreased expressions of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, transforming growth factor-β1, collagen I, collagen III, collagen IV, malonaldehyde, and lysine oxidase (all P < 0.05). This study demonstrated that NAC could maintain penile length and partly improve erectile function. Possible mechanism is directly and/or indirectly related to antihypoxic and antifibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Ma
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Chang-Jing Wu
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Tao Li
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shan-Zun Wei
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Bo-Tao Yu
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Feng Qin
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jiu-Hong Yuan
- Andrology Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Chen W, Yang A, Jia J, Popov YV, Schuppan D, You H. Lysyl Oxidase (LOX) Family Members: Rationale and Their Potential as Therapeutic Targets for Liver Fibrosis. Hepatology 2020; 72:729-741. [PMID: 32176358 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The cross-linking of structural extracellular matrix (ECM) components, especially fibrillar collagens and elastin, is strongly implicated in fibrosis progression and resistance to fibrosis reversal. Lysyl oxidase family members (LOX and LOXL1 [lysyl oxidase-like 1], LOXL2 [lysyl oxidase-like 2], LOXL3 [lysyl oxidase-like 3], and LOXL4 [lysyl oxidase like 4]) are extracellular copper-dependent enzymes that play a key role in ECM cross-linking, but have also other intracellular functions relevant to fibrosis and carcinogenesis. Although the expression of most LOX family members is elevated in experimental liver fibrosis of diverse etiologies, their individual contribution to fibrosis is incompletely understood. Inhibition of the LOX family as a whole and of LOX, LOXL1, and LOXL2 specifically has been shown to suppress fibrosis progression and accelerate its reversal in rodent models of cardiac, renal, pulmonary, and liver fibrosis. Recent disappointing clinical trials with a monoclonal antibody against LOXL2 (simtuzumab) in patients with pulmonary and liver fibrosis dampened enthusiasm for LOX family member inhibition. However, this unexpected negative outcome may be related to the inefficient antibody, rather than to LOXL2, not qualifying as a relevant antifibrotic target. Moreover, LOX family members other than LOXL2 may prove to be attractive therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarize the structural hallmarks, expression patterns, covalent cross-linking activities, and modes of regulation of LOX family members and discuss the clinical potential of their inhibition to treat fibrosis in general and liver fibrosis in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Experimental and Translational Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Tolerance Induction and Organ Protection in Transplantation, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Aiting Yang
- Experimental and Translational Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Tolerance Induction and Organ Protection in Transplantation, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jidong Jia
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Liver Cirrhosis, National Clinical Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yury V Popov
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.,Institute of Translational Immunology and Research, Center for Immunotherapy, University of Mainz Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Hong You
- Experimental and Translational Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Tolerance Induction and Organ Protection in Transplantation, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Liver Cirrhosis, National Clinical Research Center of Digestive Diseases, Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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