1
|
Labate C, Panunzio A, De Carlo F, Zacheo F, De Matteis S, Barba MC, Carbonara U, Rizzo FL, Leo S, Forte S, Ditonno P, Tafuri A, Pagliarulo V. Current Knowledge on Radiation-Therapy-Induced Erectile Dysfunction in Prostate-Cancer Patients: A Narrative Review. URO 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/uro3020013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men in the United States. Among the different available treatment options, radiation therapy is recommended for localized or even advanced disease. Erectile dysfunction (ED) often occurs after radiation therapy due to neurological, vascular, and endocrine mechanisms resulting in arterial tone alteration, pudendal-nerve neuropraxia, and lastly fibrosis. Considering the influence of quality of life on patients’ treatment choice, radiation-therapy-induced ED prevention and treatment are major issues. In this narrative review, we briefly summarize and discuss the current state of the art on radiation-therapy-induced ED in PCa patients in terms of pathophysiology and available treatment options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Connie Labate
- Department of Urology, “Vito Fazzi” Hospital, 73100 Lecce, Italy
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Urology and Andrology Section, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea Panunzio
- Department of Urology, “Vito Fazzi” Hospital, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | | | - Federico Zacheo
- Department of Urology, “Vito Fazzi” Hospital, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Sara De Matteis
- Department of Radiation Therapy, “Vito Fazzi” Hospital, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | | | - Umberto Carbonara
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Urology and Andrology Section, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Department of Urology, Royal Surrey NHS Trust, London NW3 2PS, UK
| | | | - Silvana Leo
- Department of Oncology, “Vito Fazzi” Hospital, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Saverio Forte
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Urology and Andrology Section, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Pasquale Ditonno
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Urology and Andrology Section, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chung E. Regenerative technology to restore and preserve erectile function in men following prostate cancer treatment: evidence for penile rehabilitation in the context of prostate cancer survivorship. Ther Adv Urol 2021; 13:17562872211026421. [PMID: 34434257 PMCID: PMC8381411 DOI: 10.1177/17562872211026421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Erectile dysfunction (ED) following prostate cancer treatment is not uncommon and penile rehabilitation is considered the standard of care in prostate cancer survivorship (PCS), where both patient and his partner desire to maintain and/or recover pre-treatment erectile function (EF). There is a clinical interest in the role of regenerative therapy to restore EF, since existing ED treatments do not always achieve adequate results. Aim To review regenerative therapies for the treatment of ED in the context of PCS. Materials and Methods A review of the existing PubMed literature on low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (LIESWT), stem cell therapy (SCT), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), gene therapy, and nerve graft/neurorrhaphy in the treatment of ED and penile rehabilitation, was undertaken. Results IESWT promotes neovascularization and neuroprotection in men with ED. While several systematic reviews and meta-analyses showed positive benefits, there is limited published clinical data in men following radical prostatectomy. Cellular-based technology such as SCT and PRP promotes cellular proliferation and the secretion of various growth factors to repair damaged tissues, especially in preclinical studies. However, longer-term clinical outcomes and concerns regarding bioethical and regulatory frameworks need to be addressed. Data on gene therapy in post-prostatectomy ED men are lacking; further clinical studies are required to investigate the optimal use of growth factors and the safest vector delivery system. Conceptually interpositional cavernous nerve grafting and penile re-innervation technique using a somatic-to-autonomic neurorrhaphy are attractive, but issues relating to surgical technique and potential for neural 'regeneration' are questionable. Conclusion In contrast to the existing treatment regime, regenerative ED technology aspires to promote endothelial revascularization and neuro-regeneration. Nevertheless, there remain considerable issues related to these regenerative technologies and techniques, with limited data on longer-term efficacy and safety records. Further research is necessary to define the role of these alternative therapies in the treatment of ED in the context of penile rehabilitation and PCS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Chung
- AndroUrology Centre, Suite 3, 530 Boundary St., Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Neuroprotective and Nerve Regenerative Approaches for Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction after Cavernous Nerve Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18081794. [PMID: 28820434 PMCID: PMC5578182 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18081794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant cause of reduced quality of life in men and their partners. Cavernous nerve injury (CNI) during pelvic surgery results in ED in greater than 50% of patients, regardless of additional patient factors. ED related to CNI is difficult to treat and typically poorly responsive to first- and second-line therapeutic options. Recently, a significant amount of research has been devoted to exploring neuroprotective and neuroregenerative approaches to salvage erectile function in patients with CNI. In addition, therapeutic options such as neuregulins, immunophilin ligands, gene therapy, stem cell therapy and novel surgical strategies, have shown benefit in pre-clinical, and limited clinical studies. In the era of personalized medicine, these new therapeutic technologies will be the future of ED treatment and are described in this review.
Collapse
|
4
|
Sung HH, Kam SC, Lee JH, Chae MR, Hong C, Ko M, Han DH, So I, Lee SW. Molecular and Functional Characterization ofORAIandSTIMin Human Corporeal Smooth Muscle Cells and Effects of the Transfer of Their Dominant-Negative Mutant Genes into Diabetic Rats. J Urol 2012; 187:1903-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2011.12.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Hwan Sung
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Chul Kam
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, South Korea
| | - Jun Ho Lee
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Mee Ree Chae
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Chansik Hong
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Mikyeong Ko
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Deok Hyun Han
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Insuk So
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Won Lee
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Burnett AL, Goldstein I, Andersson KE, Argiolas A, Christ G, Park K, Xin ZC. Future sexual medicine physiological treatment targets. J Sex Med 2011; 7:3269-304. [PMID: 21029380 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.02025.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual function in men and women incorporates physiologic processes and regulation of the central and peripheral nervous systems, the vascular system, and the endocrine system. There is need for state-of-the-art information as there is an evolving research understanding of the underlying molecular biological factors and mechanisms governing sexual physiologic functions. AIM To develop an evidence-based, state-of-the-art consensus report on the current knowledge of the major cellular and molecular targets of biologic systems responsible for sexual physiologic function. METHODS State-of-the-art knowledge representing the opinions of seven experts from four countries was developed in a consensus process over a 2-year period. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Expert opinion was based on the grading of evidence-based medical literature, widespread internal committee discussion, public presentation, and debate. RESULTS Scientific investigation in this field is needed to increase knowledge and foster development of the future line of treatments for all forms of biological-based sexual dysfunction. This article addresses the current knowledge of the major cellular and molecular targets of biological systems responsible for sexual physiologic function. Future treatment targets include growth factor therapy, gene therapy, stem and cell-based therapies, and regenerative medicine. CONCLUSIONS Scientific discovery is critically important for developing new and increasingly effective treatments in sexual medicine. Broad physiologic directions should be vigorously explored and considered for future management of sexual disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur L Burnett
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gene transfer for erectile dysfunction: will this novel therapy be accepted by urologists? Curr Opin Urol 2009; 19:595-600. [DOI: 10.1097/mou.0b013e3283314985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
7
|
Hristov KL, Cui X, Brown SM, Liu L, Kellett WF, Petkov GV. Stimulation of beta3-adrenoceptors relaxes rat urinary bladder smooth muscle via activation of the large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2008; 295:C1344-53. [PMID: 18799656 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00001.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the role of large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (BK) channels in beta3-adrenoceptor (beta3-AR)-induced relaxation in rat urinary bladder smooth muscle (UBSM). BRL 37344, a specific beta3-AR agonist, inhibits spontaneous contractions of isolated UBSM strips. SR59230A, a specific beta3-AR antagonist, and H89, a PKA inhibitor, reduced the inhibitory effect of BRL 37344. Iberiotoxin, a specific BK channel inhibitor, shifts the BRL 37344 concentration response curves for contraction amplitude, net muscle force, and tone to the right. Freshly dispersed UBSM cells and the perforated mode of the patch-clamp technique were used to determine further the role of beta3-AR stimulation by BRL 37344 on BK channel activity. BRL 37344 increased spontaneous, transient, outward BK current (STOC) frequency by 46.0 +/- 20.1%. In whole cell mode at a holding potential of V(h) = 0 mV, the single BK channel amplitude was 5.17 +/- 0.28 pA, whereas in the presence of BRL 37344, it was 5.55 +/- 0.41 pA. The BK channel open probability was also unchanged. In the presence of ryanodine and nifedipine, the current-voltage relationship in response to depolarization steps in the presence and absence of BRL 37344 was identical. In current-clamp mode, BRL 37344 caused membrane potential hyperpolarization from -26.1 +/- 2.1 mV (control) to -29.0 +/- 2.2 mV. The BRL 37344-induced hyperpolarization was eliminated by application of iberiotoxin, tetraethylammonium or ryanodine. The data indicate that stimulation of beta3-AR relaxes rat UBSM by increasing the BK channel STOC frequency, which causes membrane hyperpolarization and thus relaxation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kiril L Hristov
- Dept. of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Univ. of South Carolina, Coker Life Sciences Bldg., Rm. 709, 715 Sumter St., Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Pu XY, Wang XH, Gao WC, Yang ZH, Li SL, Wang HP, Wu YL. Insulin-like growth factor-1 restores erectile function in aged rats: modulation the integrity of smooth muscle and nitric oxide-cyclic guanosine monophosphate signaling activity. J Sex Med 2008; 5:1345-54. [PMID: 18355170 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2008.00817.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is one of the growth factors that have a wide range of biologic effects. We have confirmed that gene transfer of IGF-1 to the penis could improve erectile capacity. However, there are some limitations in gene therapies, such as toxicity or a risk of insertional mutagenesis. Protein treatment may be another choice for decreasing these risks. AIM To investigate whether intracavernosal injection of IGF-1 protein can restore erectile function in the aging rat. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Erectile responses, morphological changes, and nitric oxide-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (NO-cGMP) signaling pathways-related marker were determined. METHODS Ten young (4 months) and 30 old (24 months) Sprague-Dawley male rats were enrolled in this study. The old rats were divided into three groups: vehicle-only (N = 10), IGF-1 1 microg/kg (N = 10) and IGF-1 10 microg/kg treatment group (N = 10). After 4 and 8 weeks of single IGF-1 injection treatment, intracavernous pressure (ICP) responses with electrical stimulation to the cavernous nerve were evaluated. The percent of smooth muscle in corpus cavernosum tissue, the expression of mRNA and protein of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) were also evaluated. The activity of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and concentration of guanosine 3',5'-cyclic-monophosphate (cGMP) that act upon the major NO-cGMP signaling pathways in penile tissue were also analyzed. RESULTS After IGF-1 treatment, the ICP responses was significantly increased as the young control group in both the IGF-1 1 microg/kg and the IGF-1 10 microg/kg group compared with the vehicle-only group at 4 and 8 weeks (P < 0.05). Masson's trichrom staining showed the percentage of cavernosal smooth muscle was increased in IGF-1 treatment group. IGF-1 increased e-NOS expression. NOS activities and cGMP concentrations were also significantly increased in IGF-1 treatment rats. CONCLUSIONS IGF-1 improved erectile function in aged rats via restoration the integrity of smooth muscle of corpus cavernosum and modulation of NO-cGMP pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yong Pu
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital-Department of Urology, Cancer Center and The Medical Research Center, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|