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Ilg MM, Bustin SA, Ralph DJ, Cellek S. TGF-β1 induces formation of TSG-6-enriched extracellular vesicles in fibroblasts which can prevent myofibroblast transformation by modulating Erk1/2 phosphorylation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12389. [PMID: 38811625 PMCID: PMC11136978 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62123-x] [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: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles have emerged as important mediators of cell-to-cell communication in the pathophysiology of fibrotic diseases. One such disease is Peyronie's disease (PD), a fibrotic disorder of the penis caused by uncontrolled transformation of resident fibroblasts to alpha-smooth muscle actin positive myofibroblasts. These cells produce large amounts of extracellular matrix, leading to formation of a plaque in the penile tunica albuginea (TA), causing pain, penile curvature, and erectile dysfunction. We have used primary fibroblasts derived from the TA of PD patients to explore the role of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), a key signalling factor in this process. TGF-β1 treatment elicited a range of responses from the myofibroblasts: (i) they secreted extracellular vesicles (EVs) that were more numerous and differed in size and shape from those secreted by fibroblasts, (ii) these EVs prevented TGF-β1-induced transformation of fibroblasts in a manner that was dependent on vesicle uptake and (iii) they prevented phosphorylation of Erk1/2, a critical component in modulating fibrogenic phenotypic responses, but did not affect TGF-β1-induced Smad-signalling. We posit that this effect could be linked to enrichment of TSG-6 in myofibroblast-derived EVs. The ability of myofibroblast-derived vesicles to prevent further myofibroblast transformation may establish them as part of an anti-fibrotic negative feedback loop, with potential to be exploited for future therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus M Ilg
- Medical Technology Research Centre, HEMS, SoAH, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, UK
| | - Stephen A Bustin
- Medical Technology Research Centre, HEMS, SoAH, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, UK
| | - David J Ralph
- Medical Technology Research Centre, HEMS, SoAH, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, UK
- Urology Department, University College London, London, UK
| | - Selim Cellek
- Medical Technology Research Centre, HEMS, SoAH, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, UK.
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Cosentino M, Di Nauta M, Boeri L, Ferraioli G, Lucignani G, Ricapito A, Gadda F, Iafrate M, Mancini M, Dal Moro F, Ruiz-Castañe E, Bettocchi C, Montanari E, Sofikitis N. Conservative treatment of Peyronie's disease: a guide. World J Urol 2024; 42:317. [PMID: 38740620 DOI: 10.1007/s00345-024-04975-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the literature on the topic, to suggest a common line of treatment applicable across a wide community of specialists, and to contribute in maintaining the high level of interest in this disease. METHODS A comprehensive and exhaustive review of the literature was performed, identifying hundreds of articles on the topic. RESULTS Peyronie's disease is a condition that has been recognized, studied, and treated for centuries; despite this, if one excludes surgery in cases in which the deformity is stable, no clear treatment (or line of treatment) is available for complete relief of signs and symptoms. Treatment options were divided into local, oral, and injection therapy, and a wide variety of drugs, remedies, and options were identified. CONCLUSIONS Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy, vacuum therapy, penile traction therapy, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, hyaluronic acid, and collagenase of Clostridium histolyticum may be recommended only in specific contexts. Further studies on individual options or potential combinations are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cosentino
- Uro-Andrology Department, Casa di Cura Villa Maria, Via delle Melette 22, 35138, Padua, Italy.
| | - Michele Di Nauta
- Department of Urology and Organ Transplantation, Università di Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Luca Boeri
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giordana Ferraioli
- Urology Clinic, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padova University, Padua, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Lucignani
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Ricapito
- Department of Urology and Organ Transplantation, Università di Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Franco Gadda
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Iafrate
- Urology Clinic, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padova University, Padua, Italy
| | - Mariangela Mancini
- Urology Clinic, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padova University, Padua, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Dal Moro
- Urology Clinic, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padova University, Padua, Italy
| | - Eduard Ruiz-Castañe
- Andrology Department, Fundacio Puigvert, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlo Bettocchi
- Department of Urology and Organ Transplantation, Università di Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Emanuele Montanari
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Department of Urology, Ioannina University School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
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Spirito L, Manfredi C, La Rocca R, Napolitano L, Di Girolamo A, Capece M, Trama F, Sciorio C, Sokolakis I, Creta M, Arcaniolo D. Daily low-dose tadalafil may reduce the penile curvature progression rate in patients with acute Peyronie's disease: a retrospective comparative analysis. Int J Impot Res 2024; 36:129-134. [PMID: 36513814 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-022-00651-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients in acute phase of Peyronie's disease (PD) treated with daily low-dose of Tadalafil. An observational retrospective study involving patients in acute phase of PD with erectile dysfunction (ED) was designed. All subjects were offered Tadalafil 5 mg one tablet a day. Men who accepted treatment were compared to patients who refused Tadalafil. Penile curvature progression was chosen as the primary outcome. PD Questionnaire (PDQ) and IIEF-5 scores were selected as secondary outcomes. A total of 191 patients were included in the study (108 intervention vs. 83 control). Penile curvature progression rate was significantly lower in subjects taking Tadalafil at 12 weeks (25.9% vs. 39.7%, p = 0.042). Mean IIEF-5 score improved in the intervention group, becoming significantly higher compared to the observation group at 12 weeks (19.3 vs. 11.2 points, p < 0.001). Mean PDQ-Overall and PDQ-Penile Pain scores only improved in the intervention group and the statistically significant differences at baseline between groups became not statistically significant at 12 weeks (p = 0.001 vs. p = 0.232 and p < 0.001 vs. p = 0.078, respectively). Daily low-dose Tadalafil in patients with acute phase of PD seems to significantly reduce the penile curvature progression rate compared to observation, especially when it is administrated early. It also appears to improve erectile function and PD-related symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Spirito
- Unit of Urology, Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Celeste Manfredi
- Unit of Urology, Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto La Rocca
- Unit of Urology, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences, and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Napolitano
- Unit of Urology, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences, and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | | | - Marco Capece
- Unit of Urology, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences, and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Trama
- Andrological and Urogynecological Clinic, Santa Maria Terni Hospital, University of Perugia, Terni, Italy
| | | | - Ioannis Sokolakis
- Department of Urology, 'Martha-Maria' Hospital Nuremberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Massimiliano Creta
- Unit of Urology, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences, and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Davide Arcaniolo
- Unit of Urology, Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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Manfredi C, Bologna E, Licari LC. Commentary on "Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors do not prevent curvature progression but shorten pain duration in the active phase of Peyronie's disease: a retrospective cohort study". Int J Impot Res 2024; 36:166-167. [PMID: 38110571 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-023-00811-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Celeste Manfredi
- Unit of Urology, Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, 80131, Italy.
- Department of Urology, Rush University Medical Center, 60612, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Eugenio Bologna
- Department of Urology, Rush University Medical Center, 60612, Chicago, IL, USA
- Unit of Urology, Department of Maternal-Child and Urological Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Leslie Claire Licari
- Department of Urology, Rush University Medical Center, 60612, Chicago, IL, USA
- Unit of Urology, Department of Maternal-Child and Urological Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, 00185, Rome, Italy
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5
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Ziegelmann M. Is there a new role for oral therapy to treat peyronie's disease? Commentary on Daily low-dose tadalafil may reduce the penile curvature progression rate in patients with acute Peyronie's Disease: a retrospective comparative analysis. Int J Impot Res 2024; 36:160-161. [PMID: 36828955 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-023-00684-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
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Ilg MM, Harding S, Lapthorn AR, Kirvell S, Ralph DJ, Bustin SA, Ball G, Cellek S. Temporal gene signature of myofibroblast transformation in Peyronie's disease: first insights into the molecular mechanisms of irreversibility. J Sex Med 2024; 21:278-287. [PMID: 38383071 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transformation of resident fibroblasts to profibrotic myofibroblasts in the tunica albuginea is a critical step in the pathophysiology of Peyronie's disease (PD). We have previously shown that myofibroblasts do not revert to the fibroblast phenotype and we suggested that there is a point of no return at 36 hours after induction of the transformation. However, the molecular mechanisms that drive this proposed irreversibility are not known. AIM Identify molecular pathways that drive the irreversibility of myofibroblast transformation by analyzing the expression of the genes involved in the process in a temporal fashion. METHODS Human primary fibroblasts obtained from tunica albuginea of patients with Peyronie's disease were transformed to myofibroblasts using transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). The mRNA of the cells was collected at 0, 24, 36, 48, and 72 hours after stimulation with TGF-β1 and then analyzed using a Nanostring nCounter Fibrosis panel. The gene expression results were analyzed using Reactome pathway analysis database and ANNi, a deep learning-based inference algorithm based on a swarm approach. OUTCOMES The study outcome was the time course of changes in gene expression during transformation of PD-derived fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. RESULTS The temporal analysis of the gene expression revealed that the majority of the changes at the gene expression level happened within the first 24 hours and remained so throughout the 72-hour period. At 36 hours, significant changes were observed in genes involved in MAPK-Hedgehog signaling pathways. CLINICAL TRANSLATION This study highlights the importance of early intervention in clinical management of PD and the future potential of new drugs targeting the point of no return. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The use of human primary cells and confirmation of results with further RNA analysis are the strengths of this study. The study was limited to 760 genes rather than the whole transcriptome. CONCLUSION This study is to our knowledge the first analysis of temporal gene expression associated with the regulation of the transformation of resident fibroblasts to profibrotic myofibroblasts in PD. Further research is warranted to investigate the role of the MAPK-Hedgehog signaling pathways in reversibility of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus M Ilg
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie Harding
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Alice R Lapthorn
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Kirvell
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - David J Ralph
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
- Urology Department, University College London, London, W1G 8PH, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen A Bustin
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Graham Ball
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Selim Cellek
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
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Castiglione F, Çakır OÖ, Schifano N, Corona G, Reisman Y, Bettocchi C, Cellek S, Ilg MM. European Society of Sexual Medicine consensus statement on the use of animal models for studying Peyronie's disease. Sex Med 2023; 11:qfad046. [PMID: 37547872 PMCID: PMC10397421 DOI: 10.1093/sexmed/qfad046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Animal models are frequently used for translational research in Peyronie's disease (PD). However, due to lack of availability of guidelines, there is some heterogeneity in study design, data reporting, and outcome measures. Aim This European Society for Sexual Medicine consensus statement aims to provide guidance in utilization of animal models in PD research in a standardized and uniform fashion. Methods PubMed was searched for studies using animal models for PD. The following search terms were used: ("Peyronie's disease" OR "penile fibrosis" OR "penile curvature" OR "induration penis plastica" OR "erectile dysfunction") AND ("rodent" OR "mouse" OR "mice" OR "rat" OR "rabbit"). Outcomes This European Society for Sexual Medicine statement describes best practice guidelines for utilization of animals in PD research: power calculation, details of available models, surgical procedures, and measurement techniques, while highlighting possible pitfalls and translational limitations of the models. Results In total, 2490 studies were retrieved and 2446 articles were excluded. A total of 44 studies were included, of which 40 studies used rats, 1 study used both rats and mice, 1 study used a genetic mouse model, and 2 studies used rabbits. A significant number of the studies (70.5%) used transforming growth factor β 1 for induction of fibrosis. Oxford 2011 Levels of Evidence criteria could not be applied due to the nature of the studies. Conclusion Despite certain limitations of PD animal models presented, we aimed to provide guidance for their appropriate use in translational research, with the purpose of improving study quality and reproducibility as well as facilitating interpretation of reported results and conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Onur Ö Çakır
- King's College London Hospital, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom
| | - Nicolò Schifano
- King's College London Hospital, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Azienda USL, Bologna 40139, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Bettocchi
- Department of Urology, University of Bari, Bari 70121, Italy
| | - Selim Cellek
- Fibrosis Research Group, Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Marcus M Ilg
- Fibrosis Research Group, Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
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Cellek S, Megson M, Ilg MM, Ralph DJ. A combination of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor and tamoxifen for acute Peyronie's disease: the first clinical signals. J Sex Med 2023; 20:1057-1059. [PMID: 37524687 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdad083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Selim Cellek
- Fibrosis Research Group, Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Megson
- Fibrosis Research Group, Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
- Urology Department, University College London Hospital, London W1G 8PH, United Kingdom
| | - Marcus M Ilg
- Fibrosis Research Group, Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - David J Ralph
- Fibrosis Research Group, Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
- Urology Department, University College London Hospital, London W1G 8PH, United Kingdom
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Rahardjo HE, Märker V, Tsikas D, Kuczyk MA, Ückert S, Bannowsky A. Fibrotic Diseases of the Human Urinary and Genital Tract: Current Understanding and Potential Strategies for Treatment. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4770. [PMID: 37510885 PMCID: PMC10381287 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12144770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a disease condition characterized by abnormalities of the extracellular matrix, such as accumulation of the transforming growth factor β, infiltration by myofibroblasts, deposition of collagen, and a generalized dysregulation of collagen maturation. It can severely impair the function of organs by replacing normal tissue with a highly collagenized matrix, thereby reducing the elasticity and compliance of tissues. Fibrotic diseases of the genitourinary tract present relevant problems in healthcare, and their principles of pathophysiology remain unclarified; hence, the armamentarium for prevention and treatment is limited. These diseases include renal fibrosis, Peyronie's disease and ureteral and urethral strictures due to perturbations in the process of wound healing in response to injuries. Such deteriorations may contribute to obstructive uropathies or sexual dysfunction. This review provides a brief overview of the most frequent fibrotic diseases of the genitourinary system and of how the pathophysiology is related to symptoms, and also highlights potential therapeutic strategies to address the abnormal deposition of collagen. Although the understanding of factors associated with fibrotic conditions of the urinary and genital tract is still limited, some beneficial advances have been made. Further research will serve to provide a more comprehensive insight into factors responsible for the development of fibrotic tissue deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrina E Rahardjo
- Department of Urology, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia
- Department of Urology & Urological Oncology, Division of Surgery, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Viktoria Märker
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dimitrios Tsikas
- Core Unit Proteomics, Center of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Markus A Kuczyk
- Department of Urology & Urological Oncology, Division of Surgery, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Stefan Ückert
- Department of Urology & Urological Oncology, Division of Surgery, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Bannowsky
- Department of Urology, Imland Hospital gGmbH, 24768 Rendsburg, Germany
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Ilg MM, Ralph DJ, Cellek S. Statins synergize with phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors but not with selective estrogen receptor modulators to prevent myofibroblast transformation in an in vitro model of Peyronie's disease. J Sex Med 2023:7131119. [PMID: 37082866 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdad051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peyronie's disease (PD) is a fibrotic disorder characterized by plaque formation in the tunica albuginea (TA) of the penis, and we have previously shown that inhibition of transformation of TA-derived fibroblasts to myofibroblasts using a combination phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) is effective in slowing the progression of early PD. AIM The study sought to investigate whether combinations of statins with PDE5 inhibitors or SERMs would affect myofibroblast transformation in vitro. METHODS Primary fibroblasts were isolated from TA of patients with PD and stimulated with transforming growth factor β1 in the absence and presence of a range of concentrations of statins, PDE5 inhibitors, SERMs, and their combinations for 72 hours before quantifying α-smooth muscle actin using in-cell enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. OUTCOMES The prevention of transforming growth factor β1-induced transformation of TA-derived fibroblasts to myofibroblasts was measured in vitro. RESULTS Statins (simvastatin, lovastatin) inhibited myofibroblast transformation in a concentration-dependent manner with half maximal inhibitory concentration values of 0.77 ± 0.07 μM and 0.8 ± 0.13 μM, respectively. Simvastatin inhibited myofibroblast transformation in a synergistic fashion when combined with vardenafil (a PDE5 inhibitor; log alpha >0). Combination of tamoxifen (a SERM) and simvastatin did not show synergy (log alpha <0). When 3 drugs (simvastatin, vardenafil, and tamoxifen) were combined, the effect was not synergistic, but rather was additive. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS A combination of a statin with a PDE5 inhibitor might be useful in the clinic to slow the progression of the disease in patients with early PD; however, caution should be taken with such a combination because of the reported myopathy as a side effect. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The use of primary human cells from patients with PD is a strength of this study. The mechanisms by which these drug classes exert synergy when used in combination was not investigated. CONCLUSION This is the first demonstration of an antifibrotic synergy between statins and PDE5 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus M Ilg
- Medical Technology Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - David J Ralph
- Medical Technology Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
- Urology Department, University College Hospital, London W1G 8PH, United Kingdom
| | - Selim Cellek
- Medical Technology Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
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Ilg MM, Lapthorn AR, Ralph DJ, Cellek S. Phenotypic screening of 1,953 FDA-approved drugs reveals 26 hits with potential for repurposing for Peyronie's disease. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277646. [PMID: 36508413 PMCID: PMC9744312 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug repurposing has been shown to bring safe medications to new patient populations, as recently evidenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. We investigated whether we could use phenotypic screening to repurpose drugs for the treatment of Peyronie's disease (PD). PD is a fibrotic disease characterised by continued myofibroblast presence and activity leading to formation of a plaque in the penile tunica albuginea (TA) that can cause pain during erection, erectile dysfunction, and penile deformity. PD affects 3-9% of men with treatment options limited to surgery or injection of collagenase which can only be utilised at late stages after the plaque is formed. Currently there are no approved medications that can be offered to patients presenting with early disease before the formation of the plaque. Drug repurposing may therefore be the ideal strategy to identify medical treatments to address this unmet medical need in early PD. We used primary human fibroblasts from PD patients in a phenotypic screening assay that measures TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast transformation which is the main cellular phenotype that drives the pathology in early PD. A library of FDA-approved 1,953 drugs was screened in duplicate wells at a single concentration (10 μM) in presence of TGF-β1. The myofibroblast marker α-SMA was quantified after 72h incubation. A positive control of SB-505124 (TGF-β1 receptor antagonist) was included on each plate. Hits were defined as showing >80% inhibition, whilst retaining >80% cell viability. 26 hits (1.3%) were identified which were divided into the following main groups: anti-cancer drugs, anti-inflammation, neurology, endocrinology, and imaging agents. Five of the top-ten drugs that increase myofibroblast-transformation appear to act on VEGFR. This is the first phenotypic screening of FDA-approved drugs for PD and our results suggest that it is a viable method to predict drugs with potential for repurposing to treat early PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus M. Ilg
- Medical Technology Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, United Kingdom
| | - Alice R. Lapthorn
- Medical Technology Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, United Kingdom
| | - David J. Ralph
- Medical Technology Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, United Kingdom
- Department of Urology, University College London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Selim Cellek
- Medical Technology Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Plaut S. Scoping review and interpretation of myofascial pain/fibromyalgia syndrome: An attempt to assemble a medical puzzle. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263087. [PMID: 35171940 PMCID: PMC8849503 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a common, overlooked, and underdiagnosed condition and has significant burden. MPS is often dismissed by clinicians while patients remain in pain for years. MPS can evolve into fibromyalgia, however, effective treatments for both are lacking due to absence of a clear mechanism. Many studies focus on central sensitization. Therefore, the purpose of this scoping review is to systematically search cross-disciplinary empirical studies of MPS, focusing on mechanical aspects, and suggest an organic mechanism explaining how it might evolve into fibromyalgia. Hopefully, it will advance our understanding of this disease. METHODS Systematically searched multiple phrases in MEDLINE, EMBASE, COCHRANE, PEDro, and medRxiv, majority with no time limit. Inclusion/exclusion based on title and abstract, then full text inspection. Additional literature added on relevant side topics. Review follows PRISMA-ScR guidelines. PROSPERO yet to adapt registration for scoping reviews. FINDINGS 799 records included. Fascia can adapt to various states by reversibly changing biomechanical and physical properties. Trigger points, tension, and pain are a hallmark of MPS. Myofibroblasts play a role in sustained myofascial tension. Tension can propagate in fascia, possibly supporting a tensegrity framework. Movement and mechanical interventions treat and prevent MPS, while living sedentarily predisposes to MPS and recurrence. CONCLUSIONS MPS can be seen as a pathological state of imbalance in a natural process; manifesting from the inherent properties of the fascia, triggered by a disrupted biomechanical interplay. MPS might evolve into fibromyalgia through deranged myofibroblasts in connective tissue ("fascial armoring"). Movement is an underemployed requisite in modern lifestyle. Lifestyle is linked to pain and suffering. The mechanism of needling is suggested to be more mechanical than currently thought. A "global percutaneous needle fasciotomy" that respects tensegrity principles may treat MPS/fibromyalgia more effectively. "Functional-somatic syndromes" can be seen as one entity (myofibroblast-generated-tensegrity-tension), sharing a common rheuma-psycho-neurological mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiloh Plaut
- School of Medicine, St. George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Chung E, Yafi FA. Pharmacotherapy in Peyronie's disease: a state-of-the-art review on established contemporary and emerging drugs. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2022; 23:1035-1042. [PMID: 35209789 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2043274] [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: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current clinical guidelines on Peyronie's disease (PD) advocate non-surgical treatment options as the first-line therapy despite inconsistent clinical outcomes when compared to definitive penile reconstructive surgery. AREAS COVERED This article examines the current understanding of established contemporary and emerging pharmacotherapies for PD. Emphasis has been placed on published clinical studies on drugs in the last 10 years. EXPERT OPINION Published studies have shown that combination therapy is likely more effective than monotherapy. Combined treatment modalities involving various oral and/or intralesional pharmacotherapies together with mechanical devices or clinical psychosexual therapy may provide additional or synergistic benefits for PD patients. A multidisciplinary approach coupled with more novel targets for pharmacological intervention could deliver a more effective treatment paradigm to prevent or at least delay the need for definitive penile reconstructive surgery. Drugs targeting the inhibition of TGF-β1 pathway and myofibroblast transformation are of great interest and studies into next-generation genetic sequencing and transcriptional biomarker regulatory pathways in PD will provide useful insights into the pathophysiology of PD, and assist the development of future regenerative technology including cellular-based therapies to target various anti-fibrotic molecular mechanisms and the potential to be integrated into existing treatment armamentarium for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Chung
- AndroUrology Centre, Brisbane Qld and Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Department of Urology, University of Queensland, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Department of Urology, Macquarie University Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Faysal A Yafi
- Department of Urology, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA, USA
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