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Fridayana FR, Ock J, Liu FY, Niloofar L, Vo MN, Huang Y, Yin GN, Ryu JK. Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor improves erectile function in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. J Sex Med 2024:qdae079. [PMID: 39033084 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae079] [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: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) serves as a pro-angiogenic factor; however, there is to our knowledge currently no reported research on the relationship between HB-EGF and diabetic erectile dysfunction (ED). AIM In this study we aimed to determine whether HB-EGF can improve the erectile function of streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice and to explore the related mechanisms. METHODS Eight-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were used for diabetes induction. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was induced by low-dose injections of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg) for 5 consecutive days. Eight weeks after streptozotocin injections, DM was determined by measuring blood glucose and body weight. Diabetic mice were treated with two intracavernous administrations of phosphate-buffered saline (20 μL) or various doses of HB-EGF (days -3 and 0; 1, 5, and 10 μg in 20 μL of phosphate-buffered saline). The angiogenesis effect of HB-EGF was confirmed by tube formation and migration assays in mouse cavernous endothelial cells and mouse cavernous pericytes under high-glucose conditions. Erectile function was measured by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve, as well as histological examination and Western blot analysis for mechanism assessment. OUTCOMES In vitro angiogenesis, cell proliferation, in vivo intracavernous pressure, neurovascular regeneration, cavernous permeability, and survival signaling were the outcomes measured. RESULTS Expression of HB-EGF was reduced under diabetic conditions. Exogenous HB-EGF induced angiogenesis in mouse cavernous endothelial cells and mouse cavernous pericytes under high-glucose conditions. Erectile function was decreased in the DM group, whereas administration of HB-EGF resulted in a significant improvement of erectile function (91% of the age-matched control group) in association with increased neurovascular content, including cavernous endothelial cells, pericytes, and neuronal cells. Histological and Western blot analyses revealed a significant increase in the permeability of the corpus cavernosum in DM mice, which was attenuated by HB-EGF treatment. The protein expression of phospho-Akt Ser473 and phosphorylated endothelial nitric oxide synthase Ser1177 increased after HB-EGF treatment. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS The use of HB-EGF may be an effective strategy to treat ED associated with DM or other neurovascular diseases. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS Similarly to other pro-angiogenic factors, HB-EGF has dual roles in vascular and neuronal development. Our study focused on broadly evaluating the role of HB-EGF in diabetic ED. In view of the properties of HB-EGF as an angiogenic factor, its dose concentration should be strictly controlled to avoid potential side effects. CONCLUSION In the diabetic ED mouse model in this study erectile function was improved by HB-EGF, which may provide new treatment strategies for patients with ED who do not respond to phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fitri Rahma Fridayana
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
- Program in Biomedical Science & Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyeon Ock
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
| | - Fang-Yuan Liu
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
| | - Lashkari Niloofar
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
- Program in Biomedical Science & Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
| | - Minh Nhat Vo
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
| | - Yan Huang
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
- Program in Biomedical Science & Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
| | - Guo Nan Yin
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Kan Ryu
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
- Program in Biomedical Science & Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
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Hu Z, Chen K, Dai H, Lv Z, Li J, Yu P, Feng J, Abdulkarem AM, Wu H, He R, Li G. ROUX-en-Y gastric bypass surgery improves metabolic syndrome-related erectile dysfunction in mice via the IRS-1/PI3K/AKT/eNOS pathway. Sex Med 2024; 12:qfae029. [PMID: 38817951 PMCID: PMC11134102 DOI: 10.1093/sexmed/qfae029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Although many clinical studies have shown that ROUX-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery significantly improves metabolic syndrome-related erectile dysfunction (MED), the role and mechanism are unclear. Aim In this study we used a mouse model to explore how RYGB improves MED induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). Methods We established a mouse model of metabolic syndrome by feeding an HFD for 16 weeks. The mice were randomly assigned to the standard chow diet (SCD), HFD, or RYGB groups. Body weight, fasting blood glucose, plasma insulin, and total plasma cholesterol were analyzed. Erectile responses were evaluated by determining the mean systolic blood pressure and the intracavernosal pressure (ICP). Penile histologic examination (Masson's trichrome and immunohistochemical stain) and Western blot were performed. Result Compared with the SCD group, the ICP in the sham group was significantly lower, and the ICP of the RYGB was significantly increased. Masson's trichrome and immunohistochemical staining showed that the content of endothelium and smooth muscle in the corpus cavernosum of mice with MED was significantly reduced. Western blot analysis showed a significant decrease in α-smooth muscle actin and a significant increase in osteopontin in penile tissue in the sham group, which was improved by RYGB surgery. Furthermore, RYGB significantly increased IRS-1/PI3K/Akt/eNOS phosphorylation. Clinical Translation In this study we explored the mechanism of bariatric surgery to improve erectile dysfunction associated with metabolic syndrome and provided a theoretical basis for clinical research. Strengths and Limitations First, we did not investigate the mechanism by which RYGB affects the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling pathway. Second, the effect of the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling pathway on the function of corpus cavernosum endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells remains to be investigated in cellular studies. Conclusion This study demonstrated that RYGB may not only improve metabolic parameters but also restore erectile function in MED patients. The mechanism of the therapeutic effect of RYGB may be reactivation of the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxing Hu
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhuo 434000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Keming Chen
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haitao Dai
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhuo 434000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiyong Lv
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Puguang Yu
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiajing Feng
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Alqaisi Mohammed Abdulkarem
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haifeng Wu
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rui He
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guangyong Li
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Ningxia Medical University, Xingqing District, Yinchuan 750000, People’s Republic of China
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Guimaraes EL, Dias DO, Hau WF, Julien A, Holl D, Garcia-Collado M, Savant S, Vågesjö E, Phillipson M, Jakobsson L, Göritz C. Corpora cavernosa fibroblasts mediate penile erection. Science 2024; 383:eade8064. [PMID: 38330107 DOI: 10.1126/science.ade8064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Penile erection is mediated by the corpora cavernosa, a trabecular-like vascular bed that enlarges upon vasodilation, but its regulation is not completely understood. Here, we show that perivascular fibroblasts in the corpora cavernosa support vasodilation by reducing norepinephrine availability. The effect on penile blood flow depends on the number of fibroblasts, which is regulated by erectile activity. Erection dynamically alters the positional arrangement of fibroblasts, temporarily down-regulating Notch signaling. Inhibition of Notch increases fibroblast numbers and consequently raises penile blood flow. Continuous Notch activation lowers fibroblast numbers and reduces penile blood perfusion. Recurrent erections stimulate fibroblast proliferation and limit vasoconstriction, whereas aging reduces the number of fibroblasts and lowers penile blood flow. Our findings reveal adaptive, erectile activity-dependent modulation of penile blood flow by fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Oliveira Dias
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Wing Fung Hau
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anais Julien
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daniel Holl
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Garcia-Collado
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Vascular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Soniya Savant
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Evelina Vågesjö
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Division of Integrative Physiology, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mia Phillipson
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Division of Integrative Physiology, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lars Jakobsson
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Vascular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christian Göritz
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
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Pallas WD, Pak ES, Hannan JL. In vitro high glucose increases apoptosis, decreases nerve outgrowth, and promotes survival of sympathetic pelvic neurons. Sex Med 2023; 11:qfac009. [PMID: 37007853 PMCID: PMC10065172 DOI: 10.1093/sexmed/qfac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common cause of erectile dysfunction (ED), yet the molecular basis of DM neurogenic ED remains unknown.
Aim
In this study we examined the impact of high glucose on survival and growth of primary cultured pelvic neurons in a rat model and assessed whether coculturing with healthy Schwann cells (SCs) can rescue pelvic neuron growth in patients with DM.
Methods
Major pelvic ganglia (MPGs) from adult male Sprague Dawley rats (n = 8) were dissociated and plated on coverslips. Neurons were exposed to high glucose (45 mM) for 24 or 48 hours and compared to time-matched controls (25 mM). Neurons were stained for neuron-specific beta-tubulin, neuronal nitric oxide synthase, vesicular acetylcholine transferase, tyrosine hydroxylase, and TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labeling) assay. Schwann cells were dissociated from MPGs of healthy male Sprague Dawley rats (n = 4) and grown to confluence. Additional Sprague Dawley rats were made diabetic with streptozotocin (50 mg/kg, n = 4), and 5 weeks later MPGs were collected from these rats, dissociated, and cocultured on healthy SCs. Neurons and SCs were stained with beta-tubulin and S100.
Outcomes
Length, branching, and survival of nitrergic, parasympathetic, and sympathetic neurons was assessed in neurons exposed to normal or high glucose concentrations, and neuron length was measured in neuron-SC coculture.
Results
The total number of neurons and the length and number of branches were significantly decreased after 24 and 48 hours of high glucose (P < .05). The percentage of nitrergic neurons decreased 10% after 24 hours and 50% after 48 hours of high glucose (P < .05). After 24 hours of high glucose, cholinergic-positive neurons were unchanged; however, these neurons decreased 30% after 48 hours (P < .05). The proportion of sympathetic neurons increased 25% after 48 hours of high glucose (P < .05). At both timepoints, there was a 2-fold increase in the total apoptotic neurons with high glucose (P < .05). Neurite outgrowth recovered to control lengths after coculture of diabetic neurons with healthy SCs (P < .05).
Clinical Translation
Glucose can be used as a tool to investigate the direct effects of DM on neuritogenesis. Our data suggest that an effective treatment for DM ED protects and repairs the penile neuronal supply.
Strengths and Limitations
Exposing MPG neurons to high glucose offers a quick and, inexpensive proxy for DM-related conditions. A limitation of our study is that our model reflects type 1 DM, whereas clinically, most diabetic ED patients have type 2 DM.
Conclusion
Culturing pelvic neurons in high glucose can be used as a tool to elucidate how to protect proerectile neurons from cell death and may lead to new therapeutic strategies for diabetic men suffering from ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wrenn D Pallas
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University , Greenville, NC , United States
| | - Elena S Pak
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University , Greenville, NC , United States
| | - Johanna L Hannan
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University , Greenville, NC , United States
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Zhang L, Bao B, Guo J, Qin Z, Huang H, Chen L, Liu B. Current status and prospects of diabetes mellitus induced erectile dysfunction: A bibliometric and visualization study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1168744. [PMID: 37065751 PMCID: PMC10100080 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1168744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED) has recently increased, which has prompted numerous DMED studies. Here, we conduct a bibliometric analysis of relevant literature in the field of DMED and to discuss the research hotspots and future development directions. METHODS The Web of Science Core Collection database was searched for literature on DMED, and literature characterization including the number of articles, journals, countries/regions, institutions, authors, keywords, and other information was performed using VOS viewer and CiteSpace software. In addition, Pajek software was used for visual map adjustment, and GraphPad Prism was used to generate line graphs. RESULTS A total of 804 articles concerning DMED were included in this study. The Journal of Sexual Medicine issued the most documents(92 articles). The United States and China were in the leading position in the field of DMED research, and cross-institutional collaboration on DMED research worldwide needs to be further strengthened. Ryu JK were the authors with the highest number of documents issued (22 articles) while Bivalacqua TJ was the author with the most co-citated(249 co-citated). The keywords analysis shows that the main research hotspots in the field of DMED were mechanism discussions and disease treatment and management. CONCLUSIONS Global research on DMED is expected to increase further. The investigation of the mechanism of DMED and the exploration of new therapeutic means and targets are the focus of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Binghao Bao
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jianqiang Guo
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongjian Qin
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Haonan Huang
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Baoxing Liu
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Baoxing Liu,
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Li B, Ning B, Yang F, Guo C. Nerve Growth Factor Promotes Retinal Neurovascular Unit Repair: A Review. Curr Eye Res 2022; 47:1095-1105. [PMID: 35499266 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2022.2055084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate how the imbalance of neurogenic factor (NGF) and its precursor (pro-NGF) mediates structural and functional impairment of retinal neurovascular unit (RNVU) that plays a role in retinal degenerative diseases.Methods: A literature search of electronic databases was performed.Results: The pro-apoptotic effect of pro-NGF and the pro-growth effect of NGF are essential for the pathological and physiological activities of RNVU. Studies show that NGF-based treatment of retinal degenerative diseases, including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, and diabetic retinopathy, has achieved remarkable efficacy.Conclusions: RNVU plays a complex and multifaceted role in retinal degenerative diseases. The exploration of the differential signaling expression of proNGF-NGF homeostasis under physiological and pathological conditions, and the corresponding pathological processes induced by its regulation, has prompted us to focus on earlier retinal neuroprotective therapeutic strategies to prevent retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baohua Li
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, PR China
| | - Bobiao Ning
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, PR China
| | - Fan Yang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, PR China
| | - Chengwei Guo
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, PR China
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Ma L, Zhang C, Wu L, Qin L, Liu T. Diosgenin reduces phosphodiesterase 3B (PDE3B) through AMP-activated protein kinase/ mechanistic target of rapamycin (AMPK/mTOR) signaling pathway to ameliorate streptozotocin-induced pancreatic β-cell apoptosis and dysfunction. Bioengineered 2022; 13:2217-2225. [PMID: 35030973 PMCID: PMC8973619 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.2023996] [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: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease caused by defective insulin secretion and/or insulin action. And insulin is the main hormone released by the pancreatic β-cells. Diosgenin (DG) is a phytochemical with pharmacological activity that increases insulin secretion in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced pancreatic β-cells of diabetic rats. In this paper, we investigated the effect and mechanism of DG on cell apoptosis and dysfunction in STZ-induced pancreatic β-cells. Cell viability was detected by CCK-8, apoptosis by flow cytometry, and apoptosis-related protein expression by Western blot. Western blot and RT-qPCR were performed to detect the expression of related genes. The results showed that in STZ-induced INS-1 cells, DG could improve cell viability, inhibit apoptosis, attenuate oxidative stress levels and increase insulin secretion. Notably, PDE3B was highly expressed in STZ-induced INS-1 cells, while DG could significantly inhibit PDE3B expression in a dose-dependent manner. More importantly, overexpression PDE3B remarkably reversed the effect of DG on STZ-induced INS-1 cells. It is thus clear that DG might inhibit STZ-treated pancreatic β-cell apoptosis and reduce dysfunction via downregulating PDE3B, which provided a more reliable theoretical basis for the treatment of diabetes mellitus with DG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijie Ma
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, P.R. China
| | - Chengfei Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Lili Wu
- Key Laboratory of Tcm Health Cultivation of Beijing, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Lingling Qin
- Technology Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Tonghua Liu
- Key Laboratory of Tcm Health Cultivation of Beijing, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
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8
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Mossa AH, Abdaem J, Cammisotto P, Campeau L. Deleterious impact of nerve growth factor precursor (proNGF) on bladder urothelial and smooth muscle cells. Cell Signal 2021; 81:109936. [PMID: 33529756 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.109936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The nerve growth factor precursor (proNGF) activates p75NTR receptor and promotes cell death in different tissues, yet this pathophysiological effect is not fully described in the bladder. The aim of this study was to identify the biological effect of proNGF/p75NTR activation on urothelial and smooth muscle (SM) cells of rodents' bladder. Cell viability was assessed by MTT assay which showed a significant reduction in urothelial viability after 24 h of incubation with proNGF in culture medium [5 or 10 nM], an effect not seen in SM cells. Western blot analysis on cellular protein extracts showed increased expression of the transmembrane TNF-α and activation of RhoA in urothelial cells exposed to proNGF with no evidence of a nuclear translocation of NF-κB assessed by western blotting on nuclear extracts and immunofluorescence. The activation of p75NTR-death domain related pathways in urothelial cells such as TNF-α or RhoA had a downstream effect on NO release and the junctional protein occludin, as estimated respectively by colorimetric and western blotting. On the other hand, proNGF did not induce TNF-α or RhoA expression in SM cells, but induced a significant NF-κB nuclear translocation. ProNGF had a different impact on SM as evidenced by a significant dose- and time-dependent increase in SM proliferation and migration examined by MTT test and cell migration assay. Together, our results indicate that activation of proNGF/p75NTR axis induces degenerative changes to the urothelial layer impacting its barrier and signaling integrity, while promoting adaptive proliferative changes in detrusor SM cells that can interfere with the contractile phenotype essential for proper bladder function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abubakr H Mossa
- Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, 3755, Chemin de la cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Jacob Abdaem
- School of Medicine, McGill University, 3605 Rue de la Montagne, Montréal, QC H3G 2M1, Canada
| | - Philippe Cammisotto
- Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, 3755, Chemin de la cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Lysanne Campeau
- Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, 3755, Chemin de la cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada; Urology Department, Jewish General Hospital, 3755, Chemin de la cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada.
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9
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Chung DY, Song KM, Choi MJ, Limanjaya A, Ghatak K, Ock J, Yin GN, Hong CH, Hong SS, Suh JK, Ryu JK. Neutralizing antibody to proNGF rescues erectile function by regulating the expression of neurotrophic and angiogenic factors in a mouse model of cavernous nerve injury. Andrology 2021; 9:329-341. [PMID: 32696589 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radical prostatectomy induces some degree of cavernous nerve injury (CNI) and causes denervation-induced pathologic changes in cavernous vasculature, regardless of the advances in surgical techniques and robotic procedures. The precursor for nerve growth factor (proNGF) is known to be involved in neuronal cell apoptosis and microvascular dysfunction through its receptor p75NTR . OBJECTIVES To determine the expression of proNGF/p75NTR and the efficacy of proNGF neutralizing antibody (anti-proNGF-Ab) in a mouse model of ED induced by CNI. MATERIALS AND METHODS Age-matched 12-week-old C57BL/6 mice were distributed into three groups: sham group and bilateral CNI group treated with intracavernous injections of PBS (20 μL) or of anti-proNGF-Ab (20 µg in 20 μL of PBS) on days -3 and 0. Two weeks after treatment, erectile function was measured by electrical stimulation of cavernous nerve. Penis tissues from a separate group of animals were harvested for further analysis. We also determined the efficacy of anti-proNGF-Ab on neural preservation in major pelvic ganglion (MPG) ex vivo. RESULTS We observed increased penile expression of proNGF and p75NTR after CNI. Intracavernous administration of anti-proNGF-Ab increased nNOS and neurofilament expression probably by enhancing the production of neurotrophic factors, such as neurotrophin-3, NGF, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Anti-proNGF-Ab preserved the integrity of cavernous sinusoids, such as pericytes, endothelial cells, and endothelial cell-to-cell junctions, possibly by controlling angiogenic factors (angiopoietin-1, angiopoietin-2, and vascular endothelial growth factor) and induced endogenous eNOS phosphorylation in CNI mice. And finally, treatment with anti-proNGF-Ab rescued erectile function in CNI mice. Anti-proNGF-Ab also enhanced neurite sprouting from MPG exposed to lipopolysaccharide. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The preservation of damaged cavernous neurovasculature through inhibition of the proNGF/p75NTR pathway may be a novel strategy to treat radical prostatectomy-induced erectile dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doo Yong Chung
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
- Department of Urology, Urological Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kang-Moon Song
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Min-Ji Choi
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Anita Limanjaya
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Kalyan Ghatak
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Jiyeon Ock
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Guo Nan Yin
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Chang Hee Hong
- Department of Urology, Urological Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soon-Sun Hong
- Department of Drug Development, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Jun-Kyu Suh
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Ji-Kan Ryu
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
- Department of Urology, Inha University Hospital, Incheon, Korea
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Yin GN, Wu J, Cui Y, Lin C, Shi L, Gao ZL, Suh JK, Ryu JK, Jin HR. Transcriptional profiling of mouse cavernous pericytes under high-glucose conditions: Implications for diabetic angiopathy. Investig Clin Urol 2020; 62:100-110. [PMID: 33258327 PMCID: PMC7801160 DOI: 10.4111/icu.20200272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Penile erection requires integrative interactions between vascular endothelial cells, pericytes, smooth muscle cells, and autonomic nerves. Furthermore, the importance of the role played by pericytes in the pathogenesis of angiopathy has only recently been appreciated. However, global gene expression in pericytes in diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED) remains unclear. We aimed to identify potential target genes related to DMED in mouse cavernous pericytes (MCPs). Materials and Methods Mouse cavernous tissue was allowed to settle under gravity in collagen I-coated dishes, and sprouted cells were subcultivated for experiments. To imitate diabetic conditions, MCPs were treated with normal-glucose (NG, 5 mM) or high-glucose (HG, 30 mM) media for 3 days. Microarray technology was used to evaluate gene expression profiles, and RT-PCR was used to validate sequencing data. Histological examinations and Western blot were used to validate final selected target genes related to DMED. Results Decreased tube formation and increased apoptosis were detected in MCPs exposed to the HG condition. As shown by microarray analysis, the gene expression profiles of MCPs exposed to the NG or HG condition differed. A total of 2,523 genes with significantly altered expression were classified into 15 major gene categories. After further screening based on gene expression and RT-PCR and histologic results, we found that Hebp1 gene expression was significantly diminished under the HG condition and in DM mice. Conclusions This gene profiling study provides new potential targets responsible for diabetes in MCPs. Validation studies suggest that Hebp1 may be a suitable biomarker for DMED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo Nan Yin
- Department of Urology, National Research Center for Sexual Medicine, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Jitao Wu
- Department of Urology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Yuanshan Cui
- Department of Urology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Chunhua Lin
- Department of Urology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Urology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Zhen Li Gao
- Department of Urology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Jun Kyu Suh
- Department of Urology, National Research Center for Sexual Medicine, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Ji Kan Ryu
- Department of Urology, National Research Center for Sexual Medicine, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea.
| | - Hai Rong Jin
- Department of Urology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China.
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Mossa AH, Galan A, Cammisotto PG, Velasquez Flores M, Shamout S, Barcelona P, Saragovi HU, Campeau L. Antagonism of proNGF or its receptor p75 NTR reverses remodelling and improves bladder function in a mouse model of diabetic voiding dysfunction. Diabetologia 2020; 63:1932-1946. [PMID: 32699962 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-020-05222-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Although 80% of diabetic patients will suffer from voiding difficulties and urinary symptoms, defined as diabetic voiding dysfunction (DVD), therapeutic targets and treatment options are limited. We hypothesise that the blockade of the pro-nerve growth factor (NGF)/p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) axis by an anti-proNGF monoclonal antibody or by a small molecule p75NTR antagonist (THX-B) can restore bladder remodelling (represented by bladder weight) in an animal model of DVD. Secondary outcomes of the study include improvements in bladder compliance, contractility and morphology, as well as in voiding behaviour, proNGF/NGF balance and TNF-α expression. METHODS In a streptozotocin-induced mouse model of diabetes, diabetic mice received either a blocking anti-proNGF monoclonal antibody or a p75NTR antagonist small molecule as weekly systemic injections for 4 weeks. Animals were tested at baseline (at 2 weeks of diabetes induction), and after 2 and 4 weeks of treatment. Outcomes measured were voiding function with voiding spot assays and cystometry. Bladders were assessed by histological, contractility and protein expression assays. RESULTS Diabetic mice showed features of DVD as early as 2 weeks after diabetes diagnosis (baseline) presented by hypertrophy, reduced contractility and abnormal cystometric parameters. Following treatment initiation, a twofold increase (p < 0.05) in untreated diabetic mouse bladder weight and thickness compared with non-diabetic controls was observed, and this change was reversed by p75NTR antagonism (37% reduction in bladder weight compared with untreated diabetic mice [95% CI 14%, 60%]) after 4 weeks of treatment. However, blocking proNGF did not help to reverse bladder hypertrophy. While diabetic mice had significantly worse cystometric parameters and contractile responses than non-diabetic controls, proNGF antagonism normalised bladder compliance (0.007 [Q1-Q3; 0.006-0.009] vs 0.015 [Q1-Q3; 0.014-0.029] ml/cmH2O in untreated diabetic mice, representing 62% reduction [95% CI 8%, 110%], p < 0.05) and contractility to KCl, carbachol and electrical field stimulation (p < 0.05 compared with the diabetic group) after 2 weeks of treatment. These effects were not observed after 4 weeks of treatment with proNGF antagonist. p75NTR antagonism did not show important improvements in cystometric parameters after 2 weeks of treatment. Slightly improved bladder compliance (0.01 [Q1-Q3; 0.009-0.012] vs 0.013 [Q1-Q3; 0.011-0.016] ml/cmH2O for untreated diabetic mice) was seen in the p75NTR antagonist-treated group after 4 weeks of treatment with significantly stabilised contractile responses to KCl, carbachol and electric field stimulation (p < 0.05 for each) compared with diabetic mice. Bladder dysfunction observed in diabetic mice was associated with a significant increase in bladder proNGF/NGF ratio (3.1 [±1.2] vs 0.26 [±0.04] ng/pg in control group, p < 0.05 at week 2 of treatment) and TNF-α (p < 0.05). The proNGF/NGF ratio was partially reduced (about 60% reduction) with both treatments (1.03 [±0.6] ng/pg for proNGF antibody-treated group and 1.4 [±0.76] ng/pg for p75NTR blocker-treated group after 2 weeks of treatment), concomitant with a significant decrease in the bladder levels of TNF-α (p < 0.05), despite persistent hyperglycaemia. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Our findings indicate that blockade of proNGF and the p75NTR receptor in diabetes can impede the development and progression of DVD. The reported improvements in morphological and functional features in our DVD model validates the proNGF/p75NTR axis as a potential therapeutic target in this pathology. Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abubakr H Mossa
- Lady Davis Research Institute, McGill University, 3755 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Alba Galan
- Lady Davis Research Institute, McGill University, 3755 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Philippe G Cammisotto
- Lady Davis Research Institute, McGill University, 3755 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Monica Velasquez Flores
- Lady Davis Research Institute, McGill University, 3755 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Samer Shamout
- Lady Davis Research Institute, McGill University, 3755 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1E2, Canada
- Division of Urology, Department, of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Pablo Barcelona
- Lady Davis Research Institute, McGill University, 3755 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - H Uri Saragovi
- Lady Davis Research Institute, McGill University, 3755 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1E2, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Center for Experimental Therapeutics, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Lysanne Campeau
- Lady Davis Research Institute, McGill University, 3755 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1E2, Canada.
- Division of Urology, Department, of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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