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Liu S, Li J, Wang W, Zhang Y, Li S, Li T, Jiang J, Zhao F. Prenatal exposure to dibutyl phthalate contributes to erectile dysfunction in offspring male rats by activating the RhoA/ROCK signalling pathway. Toxicology 2024; 508:153925. [PMID: 39151608 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153925] [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: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to dibutyl phthalate (DBP) has been reported to cause erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult offspring rats. However, its underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Previously, we found that DBP activates the RhoA/ROCK pathway in the male reproductive system. This study investigated how prenatal exposure to DBP activates the RhoA/ROCK signalling pathway, leading to ED in male rat offspring. Pregnant rats were stratified into DBP-exposed and NC groups, with the exposed group receiving 750 milligrams per kilogram per day (mg/kg/day) of DBP through gavage from days 14-18 of gestation. DBP exposure activated the RhoA/ROCK pathway in the penile corpus cavernosum (CC) of descendants, causing smooth muscle cell contraction, fibrosis, and apoptosis, all of which contribute to ED. In vitro experiments confirmed that DBP induces apoptosis and RhoA/ROCK pathway activation in CC smooth muscle cells. Treatment of DBP-exposed offspring with the ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 for 8 weeks significantly improved smooth muscle cell condition, erectile function, and reduced fibrosis. Thus, prenatal DBP exposure induces ED in offspring through RhoA/ROCK pathway activation, and the ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 shows potential as an effective treatment for DBP-induced ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Liu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Department of Andrology, Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jianying Li
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Department of Andrology, Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Wenhao Wang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Yijun Zhang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Department of Andrology, Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Shufeng Li
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Department of Andrology, Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Tiewen Li
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Juntao Jiang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China.
| | - Fujun Zhao
- Department of Urology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Department of Andrology, Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China.
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Ajayi AF, Onaolapo MC, Omole AI, Adeyemi WJ, Oluwole DT. Mechanism associated with changes in male reproductive functions during ageing process. Exp Gerontol 2023; 179:112232. [PMID: 37315721 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112232] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ageing is a natural process with physiological changes in different body parts and has been associated with decreased reproductive capacity. Factors such as imbalance in the antioxidant defence system, vascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, accessory reproductive glands infection, obesity as well as buildup of toxic substances play a role in age-related male reproductive malfunction. Age is inversely proportional to volume of semen, sperm count, sperm progressive motility, sperm viability, normal sperm morphology. The observed negative correlation between ageing and semen indices contributes to male infertility and reproductive decline. Normal levels of ROS, plays crucial role in facilitating sperm function, such as capacitation, hyper-activation, acrosome reaction as well as sperm-oocyte fusion; however, a substantial elevation in the endogenous level of ROS, especially in reproductive tissues, usually instigates destruction of sperm cells and heightened male infertility. Contrarily, antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and micronutrients like zinc and folate, have been found by researchers to facilitate normal semen quality and male reproductive function. Furthermore, the role of hormonal imbalance as a result of the compromised hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, Sertoli and Leydig cells disorder, and nitric oxide-medicated erectile dysfunction during ageing cannot be undermined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayodeji Folorunsho Ajayi
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria; Anchor Biomed Research Institute, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.
| | | | - Ayomide Isaac Omole
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | | | - David Tolulope Oluwole
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria; Department of Physiology, Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun-State, Nigeria
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3
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Olawale F, Olofinsan K, Ogunyemi OM, Karigidi KO, Gyebi GA, Ibrahim IM, Iwaloye O. Deciphering the therapeutic role of Kigelia africana fruit in erectile dysfunction through metabolite profiling and molecular modelling. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2023.101190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
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Zhao W, Sun J, Yao LY, Hang D, Li YQ, Chen CP, Zhou YW, Chen X, Tao T, Wei LS, Zheng YY, Ge X, Li CJ, Xin ZC, Pan Y, Wang XZ, He WQ, Zhang XN, Yao B, Zhu MS. MYPT1 reduction is a pathogenic factor of erectile dysfunction. Commun Biol 2022; 5:744. [PMID: 35879418 PMCID: PMC9314386 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03716-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is closely associated with smooth muscle dysfunction, but its underlying mechanisms remains incompletely understood. We here reported that the reduced expression of myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 (MYPT1), the main regulatory unit of myosin light chain phosphatase, was critical for the development of vasculogenic ED. Male MYPT1 knockout mice had reduced fertility and the penises displayed impaired erections as evidenced by reduced intracavernous pressure (ICP). The penile smooth muscles of the knockout mice displayed enhanced response to G-Protein Couple Receptor agonism and depolarization contractility and resistant relaxation. We further identified a natural compound lotusine that increased the MYPT1 expression by inhibiting SIAH1/2 E3 ligases-mediated protein degradation. This compound sufficiently restored the ICP and improved histological characters of the penile artery of Mypt1 haploinsufficiency mice. In diabetic ED mice (db/db), the decreased expression of MYPT1 was measured, and ICP was improved by lotusine treatment. We conclude that the reduction of MYPT1 is the major pathogenic factor of vasculogenic ED. The restoration of MYPT1 by lotusine improved the function of injured penile smooth muscles, and could be a novel strategy for ED therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhao
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liang-Yu Yao
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dong Hang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ye-Qiong Li
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Cai-Ping Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu-Wei Zhou
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tao Tao
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Li-Sha Wei
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan-Yan Zheng
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xie Ge
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chao-Jun Li
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhong-Cheng Xin
- Andrology Center, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin-Zhu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei-Qi He
- Cambridge-Suda (CAM-SU) Genomic Resource Center, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xue-Na Zhang
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Bing Yao
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Min-Sheng Zhu
- Jinling Hospital Department of Reproductive Medical Center affiliated Sch Med, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
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5
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Lou L, Zheng W. Micro RNA 200a contributes to the smooth muscle cells growth in aged-related erectile dysfunction via regulating Rho/ROCK pathway. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14503. [PMID: 35778809 DOI: 10.1111/and.14503] [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: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aged-related erectile dysfunction (A-ED) is generally regarded as degeneration of penile erectile tissue due to age, male hormone deficiency and concomitant cardiovascular disease. Current pathological studies of A-ED are still limited. In this study, aged rats were divided into AE group (aged rats with ED) and YN group (young normal rats) for evaluating the roles of miRNA-200a and RhoA/ROCK signalling pathway in A-ED. Apo-morphine test, ICP measurement and pathological results were compared between these two groups. After transfection of miRNA-200a into Corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs), the expression of miRNA-200a, RhoA, ROCK1 and ROCK2 in the AE group were significantly increased. Additionally, miRNA-200a, RhoA, ROCK1 and ROCK2 were upregulated at a high level after transfecting the miRNA-200a mimics. Therefore, we speculated that miRNA-200a is a positive regulator, which may inhibit the growth of CCSMCs by activating the Rho/ROCK pathway in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Lou
- Emergency & Intensive Care Unit Center, Department of Intensive Care Unit, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zheng
- Health Management Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
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Pourbagher-Shahri AM, Farkhondeh T, Talebi M, Kopustinskiene DM, Samarghandian S, Bernatoniene J. An Overview of NO Signaling Pathways in Aging. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26154533. [PMID: 34361685 PMCID: PMC8348219 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26154533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nitric Oxide (NO) is a potent signaling molecule involved in the regulation of various cellular mechanisms and pathways under normal and pathological conditions. NO production, its effects, and its efficacy, are extremely sensitive to aging-related changes in the cells. Herein, we review the mechanisms of NO signaling in the cardiovascular system, central nervous system (CNS), reproduction system, as well as its effects on skin, kidneys, thyroid, muscles, and on the immune system during aging. The aging-related decline in NO levels and bioavailability is also discussed in this review. The decreased NO production by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) was revealed in the aged cardiovascular system. In the CNS, the decline of the neuronal (n)NOS production of NO was related to the impairment of memory, sleep, and cognition. NO played an important role in the aging of oocytes and aged-induced erectile dysfunction. Aging downregulated NO signaling pathways in endothelial cells resulting in skin, kidney, thyroid, and muscle disorders. Putative therapeutic agents (natural/synthetic) affecting NO signaling mechanisms in the aging process are discussed in the present study. In summary, all of the studies reviewed demonstrate that NO plays a crucial role in the cellular aging processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mohammad Pourbagher-Shahri
- Medical Toxicology and Drug Abuse Research Center (MTDRC), Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand 9717853577, Iran;
| | - Tahereh Farkhondeh
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand 9717853577, Iran;
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand 9717853577, Iran
| | - Marjan Talebi
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1991953381, Iran;
| | - Dalia M. Kopustinskiene
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukileliu Pr. 13, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania;
| | - Saeed Samarghandian
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur 9318614139, Iran
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (J.B.)
| | - Jurga Bernatoniene
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukileliu Pr. 13, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania;
- Department of Drug Technology and Social Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukileliu Pr. 13, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (J.B.)
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7
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Hashimoto D, Hirashima T, Yamamura H, Kataoka T, Fujimoto K, Hyuga T, Yoshiki A, Kimura K, Kuroki S, Tachibana M, Suzuki K, Yamamoto N, Morioka S, Sasaki T, Yamada G. Dynamic erectile responses of a novel penile organ model utilizing TPEM†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:875-886. [PMID: 33511393 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab011] [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] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Male penis is required to become erect during copulation. In the upper (dorsal) part of penis, the erectile tissue termed corpus cavernosum (CC) plays fundamental roles for erection by regulating the inner blood flow. When blood flows into the CC, the microvascular complex termed sinusoidal space is reported to expand during erection. A novel in vitro explant system to analyze the dynamic erectile responses during contraction/relaxation is established. The current data show regulatory contraction/relaxation processes induced by phenylephrine (PE) and nitric oxide (NO) donor mimicking dynamic erectile responses by in vitro CC explants. Two-photon excitation microscopy (TPEM) observation shows the synchronous movement of sinusoidal space and the entire CC. By taking advantages of the CC explant system, tadalafil (Cialis) was shown to increase sinusoidal relaxation. Histopathological changes have been generally reported associating with erection in several pathological conditions. Various stressed statuses have been suggested to occur in the erectile responses by previous studies. The current CC explant model enables to analyze such conditions through directly manipulating CC in the repeated contraction/relaxation processes. Expression of oxidative stress marker and contraction-related genes, Hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (Hif1a), glutathione peroxidase 1 (Gpx1), Ras homolog family member A (RhoA), and Rho-associated protein kinase (Rock), was significantly increased in such repeated contraction/relaxation. Altogether, it is suggested that the system is valuable for analyzing structural changes and physiological responses to several regulators in the field of penile medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiki Hashimoto
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University (WMU), Wakayama, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Hirashima
- Department of Pathology and Biology of Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hisao Yamamura
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Tomoya Kataoka
- Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kota Fujimoto
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University (WMU), Wakayama, Japan
| | - Taiju Hyuga
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University (WMU), Wakayama, Japan
| | - Atsushi Yoshiki
- Experimental Animal Division, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kazunori Kimura
- Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Kuroki
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Makoto Tachibana
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kentaro Suzuki
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University (WMU), Wakayama, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Yamamoto
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Group, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shin Morioka
- Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takehiko Sasaki
- Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Gen Yamada
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Advanced Medicine, Wakayama Medical University (WMU), Wakayama, Japan
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Hui J, Liu R, Zhang H, He S, Wei A. Screening and identification of critical biomarkers in erectile dysfunction: evidence from bioinformatic analysis. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8653. [PMID: 32161689 PMCID: PMC7050549 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common male-disease globally. Despite efforts to explain its pathogenesis, the molecular mechanisms of ED are still not well understood. Methods The microarray dataset GSE10804 was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) to find candidate genes in ED progression. After differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, functional enrichment analysis was performed. In addition, a protein-protein interaction network (PPI) was established and module analysis was performed through the STRING and Cytoscape. Results and Conclusions A total of 618 DEGs were identified in all, containing 430 downregulated genes and 188 upregulated genes. The enriched functions and pathways of the DEGs include transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter, cell adhesion, calcium ion binding, receptor binding, Akt signaling pathway, receptor interaction, protein digestion, and absorption. We picked out twenty-five hub genes, with biological process (BP) analyses revealing that the genes were principally associated with cellular responses to amino acid stimuli, extracellular matrix structural constituent, collagen trimer, protein digestion and absorption, ECM-receptor interaction and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. To sum up, DEGs and hub genes distinguished in this study not only help us understand the molecular mechanisms behind the carcinogenesis and progression of ED, but also play a part in the diagnosis and treatment of ED by providing candidate targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialiang Hui
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ruiyu Liu
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haibo Zhang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuhua He
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Anyang Wei
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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9
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Wang Y, Wang Y, Cong R, Tian Y, Chen C, Wang Y, Zhang Q, Zhou X, Ji C, Meng X, Song N. Restoration of erectile function by suppression of corporal apoptosis and oxidative stress with losartan in aged rats with erectile dysfunction. Andrology 2020; 8:769-779. [PMID: 31968148 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) increases progressively with age, but its potential pathophysiology has not been fully demonstrated. Hence, this article was aimed to identify the functional and morphological characterization of the corpus cavernosum in aged rats and to evaluate the effects of the Angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist losartan on age-related ED (AED). MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 40 young and aged Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10 per group): young rats as normal controls (YNC) group; aged rats with normal erectile function (ANC) group; aged rats with ED (AED) group; and a losartan-treated AED (AED + Losartan) group. The treated group received losartan (30 mg/kg) once daily oral gavage for 4 weeks. Erectile function was measured by the ratio of peak intracavernous pressure (ICP)/mean arterial pressure (MAP), and relevant tissues were harvested for transmission electron microscopy, Immunohistochemistry, Masson's trichrome staining, TUNEL, caspase-3 activity assay and Western blot. RESULTS The AED group exhibited decreases in erectile response and increases in the role of apoptosis, fibrosis as well as oxidative stress, compared with the control groups. After daily administration of losartan for four weeks, it could slightly restore erectile function and significantly attenuate corporal apoptosis, fibrosis, and oxidative stress of AED. However, the result was still not comparable with that of the control groups. Moreover, the expression levels of p-Bad/Bad and p-AKT/AKT were significantly lower, whereas the expression levels of Bax/Bcl-2, Nrf2/Keap-1, Fibronectin, HO-1, and caspase-3 activity were significantly higher in the AED groups and while losartan could significantly attenuate these changes of AED, it was still not comparable with that of the control groups. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated that administration of losartan not merely restored erectile function, but also significantly prevented corporal apoptosis and oxidative stress in AED by suppressing the Akt/Bad/Bax/caspase-3 and Nrf2/Keap-1 pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yamin Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rong Cong
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yichun Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qijie Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chengjian Ji
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xianghu Meng
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ninghong Song
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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10
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Liu K, Cui K, Feng H, Li R, Lin H, Chen Y, Zhang Y, Chen Z, Yuan H, Li M, Wang T, Lan R, Liu J, Rao K, Wen B. JTE‐013 supplementation improves erectile dysfunction in rats with streptozotocin‐induced type Ⅰ diabetes through the inhibition of the rho‐kinase pathway, fibrosis, and apoptosis. Andrology 2019; 8:497-508. [PMID: 31610097 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. Liu
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - K. Cui
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - H. Feng
- Department of Urology The Affiliated Baoan Hospital of Southern Medical University Shenzhen China
| | - R. Li
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - H. Lin
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - Y. Chen
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - Y. Zhang
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - Z. Chen
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - H. Yuan
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - M. Li
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - T. Wang
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - R. Lan
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - J. Liu
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - K. Rao
- Department of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
- Institute of Urology Tongji Hospital Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Hubei China
| | - B. Wen
- Department of Urology The Affiliated Baoan Hospital of Southern Medical University Shenzhen China
- Department of Urology Shenzhen Bao'an Shajing People's Hospital Guangzhou Medical University Shenzhen China
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11
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Hassanin AM, Abdel-Hamid AZ. Cavernous smooth muscles: innovative potential therapies are promising for an unrevealed clinical diagnosis. Int Urol Nephrol 2019; 52:205-217. [DOI: 10.1007/s11255-019-02309-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Demirtaş Şahin T, Yazir Y, Utkan T, Gacar G, Furat Rençber S, Gocmez SS. TNF-α antagonism with etanercept enhances penile NOS expression, cavernosal reactivity, and testosterone levels in aged rats. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2017; 96:200-207. [PMID: 29260891 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2017-0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) has been reported to be associated with inflammation. This study investigated the effects of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) inhibitor etanercept on penile neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expressions, testosterone concentrations, neurogenic and endothelium-dependent relaxations of corpus cavernosum (CC), and circulating and cavernosal levels of inflammatory markers in aged rats. Animals were separated into control, aged, and etanercept-treated aged groups. Aged rats displayed significantly increased serum and cavernosal TNF-α, C-reactive protein (CRP), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM-1) levels, and decreased penile nNOS and eNOS expressions and serum testosterone levels compared with controls. In etanercept-treated aged group, NOS expressions were similar to that of the control group. The circulating and cavernosal concentrations of TNF-α, CRP, MCP-1, ICAM-1, and testosterone were also normalized by etanercept. Neurogenic and endothelium-dependent relaxant responses significantly decreased in aged rats and etanercept treatment markedly improved these relaxation responses. Our findings indicate that aging decreases penile NOS expression, neurogenic and endothelium-dependent relaxations of CC, and also suppresses serum testosterone levels by inducing inflammatory response that may contribute to the development of ED. TNF-α antagonism may be a novel strategy to treat aging-associated ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuğçe Demirtaş Şahin
- a Department of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli 41380, Turkey
| | - Yusufhan Yazir
- b Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli 41380, Turkey.,c Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Research and Application Center, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli 41380, Turkey
| | - Tijen Utkan
- a Department of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli 41380, Turkey.,d Experimental Medical Research and Application Center, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli 41380, Turkey
| | - Gulcin Gacar
- c Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Research and Application Center, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli 41380, Turkey
| | - Selenay Furat Rençber
- b Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli 41380, Turkey
| | - Semil Selcen Gocmez
- a Department of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli 41380, Turkey
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Luan Y, Ruan Y, Wang T, Zhuan L, Wen Z, Chen R, Zhang Y, Cui K, Yang J, Wang S, Liu J, Ye Z, Wang D. Preserved Erectile Function in the Aged Transgenic Rat Harboring Human Tissue Kallikrein 1. J Sex Med 2017; 13:1311-1322. [PMID: 27555503 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Revised: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Human tissue kallikrein 1 (hKLK1) has enormous potential for the protection of vasodilation and endothelial function in the cardiovascular system. Our previous study proved the decreased expression of kallikrein 1 in the corpus cavernosum (CC) of aged rats, but the role of kallikrein 1 in age-related erectile dysfunction remains unknown. AIM To explore the effect and underlying mechanisms of hKLK1 on age-related erectile dysfunction. METHODS Male wild-type Sprague-Dawley rats (WTR) and transgenic rats harboring the hKLK1 gene (TGR) were fed to 4 and 27 months of age, respectively, and divided into four groups: young WTR (yWTR) as the control, young TGR (yTGR), aged WTR (aWTR), and aged TGR (aTGR). Rats' erectile function was evaluated by the cavernous nerve electrostimulation method. Then, CCs were collected for verification of hKLK1 followed by measurement of nitric oxide (NO)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and RhoA-Rho-kinase (ROCK) signaling activities. Masson trichrome staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase 2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphate nick end labeling assay were conducted to evaluate penile fibrosis and apoptosis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Erectile response, NO-cGMP and RhoA-ROCK pathway-related indices, ratio of smooth muscle to collagen, and apoptosis index. RESULTS The hKLK1 alleviated the decrease of erectile function in the aWTR group. Endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and phospho-eNOS(Ser1177) expressions, NO synthase activity, and NO and cGMP levels were decreased, whereas phospho-eNOS(Thr495), L-type Ca(2+) channel, RhoA, ROCK1, ROCK2, and transforming growth factor β1 proteins were increased in the CCs of the aWTR group compared with the control yWTR group. These changes were obviously mitigated in the aTGR group. Moreover, hKLK1 prevented the sharp decrease of the ratio of smooth muscle to collagen and the increase of the apoptosis index in the CCs of the aWTR group. CONCLUSION These results suggest that hKLK1 could play a preventive role in age-related erectile dysfunction by activation of the NO-cGMP pathway and inhibition of the RhoA-ROCK pathway and by antitissue fibrotic and apoptotic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Luan
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yajun Ruan
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Li Zhuan
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zheng Wen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ruibao Chen
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Kai Cui
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shaogang Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jihong Liu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Zhangqun Ye
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Daowen Wang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Meekins LC, Rosado-Adames N, Maddala R, Zhao JJ, Rao PV, Afshari NA. Corneal Endothelial Cell Migration and Proliferation Enhanced by Rho Kinase (ROCK) Inhibitors in In Vitro and In Vivo Models. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 57:6731-6738. [PMID: 27951595 PMCID: PMC6018452 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.16-20414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To explore the role of Rho-associated kinases (ROCK) in corneal physiology and regeneration, and the effects of suppressing its activity in stimulating corneal endothelial cell proliferation and migration in vitro and in vivo. Methods Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect RhoA and ROCK-1 and ROCK-2 in human corneal tissue. Adult porcine corneal endothelial cells (CECs) were isolated, grown to confluence, and further characterized. Under the treatment of ROCK inhibitors, changes in the cellular distribution profile of ZO-1 and F-actin were examined by immunofluorescence staining. Corneal endothelial cells migration was evaluated by scratch assay and analyzed with Axiovision software. Cell proliferation was quantified using Click-iT EdU HCS Assay. In vivo, the corneal endothelia of rabbits were surgically injured and H-1152 was topically applied for 10 days. Progress of wound healing was evaluated daily by monitoring corneal edema, inflammation, and thickness using slit-lamp examination, photography, and pachymetry. Rabbits were euthanized and enucleated for further evaluation. Results H-1152 exhibited significant stimulatory effect on CEC migration and proliferation in vitro compared with both untreated and Y-27632–treated cells. Furthermore, topical administration of H-1152 led to marked reduction in corneal edema and formation of multinucleate CECs in vivo suggestive of proliferation associated with healing. Conclusions H-1152 exhibited a better stimulatory effect on CEC migration and proliferation in vitro than Y-27632. Our findings suggest that topical administration of H-1152 promotes healing of injured corneal endothelium in vivo. These results demonstrate the efficacy of ROCK inhibitors as a potential topical therapy for patients with corneal endothelial disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Landon C Meekins
- Duke University Eye Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States
| | - Noel Rosado-Adames
- Duke University Eye Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States
| | - Rupalatha Maddala
- Duke University Eye Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States
| | - Jiagang J Zhao
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Ponugoti V Rao
- Duke University Eye Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States
| | - Natalie A Afshari
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
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Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common disorders in male and is often associated with other age-related comorbidities. The aging process affects the structural organization and function of penile erectile components such as smooth muscle cell and vascular architecture. These modifications affect penile hemodynamics by impairing cavernosal smooth muscle cell relaxation, reducing penile elasticity, compliance and promoting fibrosis. This review aims to identify the mechanisms of ED in the penile aging process in experimental and clinical data. It also highlights areas that are in need of more research. The search strategies yielded total records screened from PubMed. Clarification of the molecular mechanisms that accompanies corpus cavernosum aging and aging-associated ED will aid new perspectives in the development of novel mechanism-based therapeutic approaches. Age is not a limiting factor for ED medical management, and it is never too late to treat. Hypogonadism should be managed regardless of age, and synergistic effects have been found during testosterone (T) replacement therapy when used along with oral phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors. Therefore, the clinical management of ED related to aging can be done by therapeutic interventions that include PDE-5 inhibitors, and other pharmacological treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ecem Kaya
- a Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology , Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University , Ankara , Turkey and
| | - Suresh C Sikka
- b Department of Urology and Pharmacology , Tulane University Health Sciences Center , New Orleans , LA , USA
| | - Philip J Kadowitz
- b Department of Urology and Pharmacology , Tulane University Health Sciences Center , New Orleans , LA , USA
| | - Serap Gur
- a Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology , Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University , Ankara , Turkey and
- b Department of Urology and Pharmacology , Tulane University Health Sciences Center , New Orleans , LA , USA
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Akakpo W, Musicki B, Burnett AL. cAMP-dependent regulation of RhoA/Rho-kinase attenuates detrusor overactivity in a novel mouse experimental model. BJU Int 2017; 120:143-151. [PMID: 28303627 DOI: 10.1111/bju.13847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate detrusor function and cAMP activation as a possible target for detrusor overactivity in an experimental model lacking a key denitrosylation enzyme, S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR). MATERIALS AND METHODS GSNOR-deficient (GSNOR-/- ) (n = 30) and wild-type (WT) mice (n = 26) were treated for 7 days with the cAMP activator, colforsin (1 mg/kg), or vehicle intraperitoneally. Cystometric studies or molecular analyses of bladder specimens were performed. Bladder function indices and expression levels of proteins that regulate detrusor relaxation (nitric oxide synthase pathway) or contraction (RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway) and oxidative stress were assessed. For statistical analysis the Student's t-test and one-way analysis of variance were used. RESULTS GSNOR-/- mice had significantly higher (P < 0.05) voiding and non-voiding contraction frequencies compared to WT mice (Cohen's effect size values d = 1.82 and 2.52, respectively). Colforsin normalised these abnormalities (Cohen's effect size values d = 1.85 and 1.28, respectively). Western blot analyses showed an up-regulation of the RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway reflected by significantly higher (P < 0.05) phosphorylated myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 (P-MYPT-1) expression in GSNOR-/- mouse bladders, which was reversed by colforsin treatment. There was a higher level (P < 0.05) of gp91phox expression in the bladders of GSNOR-/- mice without significant change after colforsin treatment. Neuronal and endothelial nitric oxide synthase phosphorylation on Ser-1412 and Ser-1177, respectively, did not differ between GSNOR-/- and WT mouse bladders irrespective of colforsin treatment. CONCLUSION Impaired denitrosylation is associated with detrusor overactivity, which is linked with upregulated RhoA/Rho-kinase signalling. Colforsin reverses physiological and molecular abnormalities. This study describes a novel model of detrusor overactivity and suggests a possible basis for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Akakpo
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Biljana Musicki
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Arthur L Burnett
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Ding Z, Shen X, Li Y. Association of nNOS and Rho-kinase with age-associated erectile dysfunction in Sprague-Dawley rats. Exp Ther Med 2017; 13:1133-1136. [PMID: 28450953 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2017.4064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the changes of Rho-associated kinase (Rho-kinase) and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression in age-associated erectile dysfunction (ED) in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. A total of 100 intact male SD rats were divided into 20 groups according to their age (5-24 months; rats that were the same age in months were in the same group). Erectile response measurements were performed and the functional index intracavernosal pressure/mean arterial pressure (ICP/MAP) was tested, followed by detection of Rho-kinase and nNOS protein by western blot analysis. Finally, correlation analyses of the association between ICP/MAP and Rho-kinase, nNOS, or nNOS/Rho-kinase, as well as between age and nNOS or Rho-kinase, were performed. The functional index ICP/MAP decreased with age in SD rats. Moreover, the expression of nNOS protein decreased, while Rho-kinase expression increased, indicating that the nNOS/Rho-kinase ratio decreased with age. The Pearson's correlation coefficients for the association between ICP/MAP and Rho-kinase, nNOS and nNOS/Rho-kinase ratio were -0.917, 0.853 and 0.937, respectively (P<0.01). Furthermore, nNOS was found to be significantly negatively correlated with age (r=-0.855; P<0.01), whereas Rho-kinase was positively correlated with age (r=0.943; P<0.01). Age-associated ED was therefore correlated with decreased nNOS and increased Rho-kinase, indicating that the nNOS/Rho-kinase ratio may be used as a candidate indicator of age-associated ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibo Ding
- Department of Urology, The Fourth People's Hospital of Jinan, Jinan, Shandong 250031, P.R. China
| | - Xingjie Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250013, P.R. China
| | - Yunfei Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The General Hospital of Jinan Military Command, Jinan, Shandong 250031, P.R. China
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Uvin P, Albersen M, Bollen I, Falter M, Weyne E, Linsen L, Tinel H, Sandner P, Bivalacqua TJ, De Ridder DJMK, Van der Aa F, Brône B, Van Renterghem K. Additive effects of the Rho kinase inhibitor Y-27632 and vardenafil on relaxation of the corpus cavernosum tissue of patients with erectile dysfunction and clinical phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor failure. BJU Int 2016; 119:325-332. [DOI: 10.1111/bju.13691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pieter Uvin
- Department of Urology; University Hospitals Leuven; Leuven Belgium
- Department of Urology; Jessa Hospital; Hasselt University; Hasselt Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration; Cluster Organ Systems; Faculty of Medicine; Group Biomedical Sciences; KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | - Maarten Albersen
- Department of Urology; University Hospitals Leuven; Leuven Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration; Cluster Organ Systems; Faculty of Medicine; Group Biomedical Sciences; KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | - Ine Bollen
- Physiology Group; University of Hasselt; Hasselt Belgium
| | - Maarten Falter
- Physiology Group; University of Hasselt; Hasselt Belgium
| | - Emmanuel Weyne
- Department of Urology; University Hospitals Leuven; Leuven Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration; Cluster Organ Systems; Faculty of Medicine; Group Biomedical Sciences; KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | - Loes Linsen
- Jessa Hospital; University Biobank Limburg; Hasselt Belgium
| | - Hanna Tinel
- Bayer HealthCare; Global Drug Discovery; Wuppertal Germany
- Institute of Pharmacology; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Peter Sandner
- Bayer HealthCare; Global Drug Discovery; Wuppertal Germany
- Institute of Pharmacology; Hannover Medical School; Hannover Germany
| | - Trinity J. Bivalacqua
- Department of Urology; James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute; Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions; Baltimore MD USA
| | - Dirk J. M. K. De Ridder
- Department of Urology; University Hospitals Leuven; Leuven Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration; Cluster Organ Systems; Faculty of Medicine; Group Biomedical Sciences; KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | - Frank Van der Aa
- Department of Urology; University Hospitals Leuven; Leuven Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration; Cluster Organ Systems; Faculty of Medicine; Group Biomedical Sciences; KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | - Bert Brône
- Physiology Group; University of Hasselt; Hasselt Belgium
| | - Koenraad Van Renterghem
- Department of Urology; University Hospitals Leuven; Leuven Belgium
- Department of Urology; Jessa Hospital; Hasselt University; Hasselt Belgium
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Priviero FBM, Toque HAF, Nunes KP, Priolli DG, Teixeira CE, Webb RC. Impaired Corpus Cavernosum Relaxation Is Accompanied by Increased Oxidative Stress and Up-Regulation of the Rho-Kinase Pathway in Diabetic (Db/Db) Mice. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0156030. [PMID: 27227463 PMCID: PMC4882003 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0156030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Basal release of nitric oxide from endothelial cells modulates contractile activity in the corpus cavernosum via inhibition of the RhoA/Rho-kinase signaling pathway. We aimed to investigate nitric oxide bioavailability, oxidative stress and the Rho-kinase pathway in the relaxation of the corpus cavernosum of an obese and diabetic model of mice (db/db mice). We hypothesized that in db/db mice impaired relaxation induced by Rho-kinase inhibitor is accompanied by diminished NO bioavailability, increased oxidative stress and upregulation of the RhoA/Rho-kinase signalling pathway. Cavernosal strips from male lean and non-diabetic db/+ and db/db mice were mounted in myographs and isometric force in response to Rho-kinase inhibitor Y-27632 was recorded. Enzyme activity and protein expression of oxidative stress markers and key molecules of the RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway were analyzed. The Rho-kinase inhibitor Y-27632 concentration-dependently caused corpus cavernosum relaxation and inhibited cavernosal contractions. Nonetheless, a rightward shift in the curves obtained in corpus cavernosum of db/db mice was observed. Compared to db/+, this strain presented increased active RhoA, higher MYPT-1 phosphorylation stimulated by phenylephrine, and increased expression of ROKα and Rho-GEFs. Further, we observed normal expression of endothelial and neuronal NOS in corpus cavernosum of db/db mice. However, nitrate/nitrate (NOx) levels were diminished, suggesting decreased NO bioavailability. We measured the oxidant status and observed increased lipid peroxidation, with decreased SOD activity and expression. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that in db/db mice, upregulation of the RhoA/Rho-kinase signalling pathway was accompanied by decreased NO bioavailability and increased oxidative stress contributing to impaired relaxation of the corpus cavermosum of db/db mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda B. M. Priviero
- Laboratory of Multidisciplinary Research, Universidade São Francisco, Bragança Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | - Haroldo A. F. Toque
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Kenia Pedrosa Nunes
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida, United States of America
| | - Denise G. Priolli
- Laboratory of Multidisciplinary Research, Universidade São Francisco, Bragança Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cleber E. Teixeira
- Department of Physiology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - R. Clinton Webb
- Department of Physiology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States of America
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Abstract
Erectile dysfunction is a multidimensional but common male sexual dysfunction that involves an alteration in any of the components of the erectile response, including organic, relational and psychological. Roles for nonendocrine (neurogenic, vasculogenic and iatrogenic) and endocrine pathways have been proposed. Owing to its strong association with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease, cardiac assessment may be warranted in men with symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Minimally invasive interventions to relieve the symptoms of erectile dysfunction include lifestyle modifications, oral drugs, injected vasodilator agents and vacuum erection devices. Surgical therapies are reserved for the subset of patients who have contraindications to these nonsurgical interventions, those who experience adverse effects from (or are refractory to) medical therapy and those who also have penile fibrosis or penile vascular insufficiency. Erectile dysfunction can have deleterious effects on a man's quality of life; most patients have symptoms of depression and anxiety related to sexual performance. These symptoms, in turn, affect his partner's sexual experience and the couple's quality of life. This Primer highlights numerous aspects of erectile dysfunction, summarizes new treatment targets and ongoing preclinical studies that evaluate new pharmacotherapies, and covers the topic of regenerative medicine, which represents the future of sexual medicine.
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Echeverri Tirado LC, Ferrer JE, Herrera AM. Aging and Erectile Dysfunction. Sex Med Rev 2016; 4:63-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2015.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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22
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Zhu X, Lin H, Jiang R, Wang R, Jiang J, Peng Q, Fan Z. Improving erectile function of spontaneously hypertensive rats by silencing ROCK2. Urology 2015; 84:983.e11-8. [PMID: 25260465 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2014.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Revised: 06/20/2014] [Accepted: 06/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To improve the erectile function of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) by silencing Rho-associated protein kinase 2 (ROCK2). METHODS Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKYs) and SHRs injected with 20-μL saline (WKY saline control and SHR saline control; n = 10) or 20 μL of 3 × 10(6) transducing units per milliliter negative control lentivirus (WKY negative control and SHR negative control; n = 10) were set as controls. After selecting the best inhibitory small interference ribonucleic acid (siRNA) by transducing 4 kinds of the lentiviral vector-based siRNA-targeting ROCK2 messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) respectively into cultured cavernous smooth muscle cells, 20 μL of 3 × 10(6) transducing units per milliliter of the lentiviral vectors were prepared and injected into the corpora cavernosa of WKYs (WKY siRNA; n = 10) and SHRs (SHR siRNA; n = 10). Seven days later, the maximum intracavernosal pressure to mean arterial pressure ratio (ICPmax/MAP), the expression levels of ROCK2, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and phosphorylated eNOS in the penis were measured and determined. RESULTS In cavernous smooth muscle cells of SHR culture, 3 kinds of ROCK2 siRNA significantly inhibited ROCK2 mRNA expression. The lentiviral vector-based siRNA-targeting ROCK2 mRNA at the 2287th nucleotide position significantly increased the ICPmax/MAP in the SHR siRNA group more than in SHR saline control and SHR negative control groups. There was no significant difference in the ICPmax/MAP among WKY saline control, WKY negative control and WKY siRNA groups. The ICPmax/MAP in the SHR siRNA group was significantly lower than that in the WKY saline control group. ROCK2 expression in the penis was significantly decreased in SHR siRNA group compared with that in SHR saline control and SHR negative control groups. The expression of eNOS and phosphorylated eNOS was significantly increased in SHR siRNA compared with that in SHR saline control and SHR negative control groups. CONCLUSION The gene therapy with lentiviral vector-based siRNA-targeting ROCK2 mRNA can significantly improve erectile function mainly by directly inhibiting ROCK2 pathway in the SHR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiubo Zhu
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Affiliated Hospital, Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, China
| | - Haocheng Lin
- Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Rui Jiang
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital, Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, China.
| | - Run Wang
- Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Jun Jiang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital, Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, China
| | - Qiang Peng
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital, Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, China
| | - Zhongcai Fan
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Affiliated Hospital, Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, China
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Dalaklioglu S, Sahin P, Tasatargil A, Celik-Ozenci C. Pravastatin improves the impaired nitric oxide-mediated neurogenic and endothelium-dependent relaxation of corpus cavernosum in aged rats. Aging Male 2014; 17:259-66. [PMID: 24000938 DOI: 10.3109/13685538.2013.832194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of pravastatin treatment on diminished corpus cavernosum (CC) function associated with aging. METHODS Male rats were divided into three groups as adult rats (12-14 weeks old), aged rats (72-80 weeks old) and aged rats given 10 mg/kg/d pravastatin in drinking water for six weeks. Blood pressure was measured by tail-cuff method. Total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglycerides and testosterone levels were estimated in blood. Changes in expression levels of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), phosphorylated eNOS (p-eNOS) (Ser-1177), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), NADPH oxidase subunit gp91(phox), Rho A and Rho kinase (ROCK2) in CC were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Nitric oxide (NO)-mediated endothelium-dependent and neurogenic CC relaxation were evaluated by acetylcholine (ACh, 0.1 nM-100 µM) and electrical field stimulation (EFS; 30 V, 5 ms, 2-32 Hz), respectively. RESULTS In aged rats, NO-mediated, both endothelium-dependent and neurogenic CC relaxation, were significantly impaired as compared to adult rats. Besides, eNOS, p-eNOS and nNOS expressions decreased significantly in CC from aged rats, while gp91(phox), RhoA and ROCK2 expressions increased significantly. The diminished relaxation in response to ACh or EFS as well as the changes in expression of these proteins in aged rats were significantly improved by pravastatin treatment. CONCLUSION Pravastatin improves NO-mediated CC relaxations of aged rats probably by inhibiting NADPH oxidase/Rho kinase pathways, and this effect does not seem to be associated with lipid lowering effect of this drug.
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Un O, Yilmaz D, Bayatli N, Kaya E, Gur S. L-arginine and tetrahydrobiopterin, but not sodium nitrite partially restored erectile dysfunction in aged rats. Aging Male 2014; 17:248-55. [PMID: 24898570 DOI: 10.3109/13685538.2014.921150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with erectile dysfunction (ED), in which nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity and NO bioavailability are reduced due to deficiencies of NOS cofactor (tetrahydrobiopterin, BH(4)) and substrate (L-arginine). We determined whether the prolonged treatment with sodium nitrite (NaNO(2)) as a storage form of NO ameliorates ED in aged rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided: younger, aged and NaNO(2)-treated (20 mg/kg per day) aged groups. The erectile (intracavernosal pressure [ICP]/mean arterial pressure [MAP]) and corpus cavernous (CC) responses were evaluated after 12 weeks. The ICP/MAP in aged rats was lower than in young controls, which was not improved by the NaNO(2) treatment. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for endothelial NOS and collagen deposition was performed. We assayed NO indirectly by measuring the level of its stable end products, nitrite/nitrate, using the Griess reagent. The relaxations to ACh and EFS in the aged group were considerably less than in the younger group, which were normalized by acute incubations of l-arginine or BH(4) of aged CC. In conclusion, NaNO(2) treatment did not restore erectile response while nitrate levels were enhanced in aged penis. The cofactor or substrate administrations, but not chronic exogenous modulation of NO system may be beneficial in aged men with ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozge Un
- Department of Pharmacology and
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Understanding and targeting the Rho kinase pathway in erectile dysfunction. Nat Rev Urol 2014; 11:622-8. [PMID: 25311680 DOI: 10.1038/nrurol.2014.278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common disorder that affects a quarter of US men, and has many causes, including endothelial impairment, low testosterone levels, prior surgical manipulation, and/or psychogenic components. Penile erection is a complex process requiring neurally mediated relaxation of arteriolar smooth muscle and engorgement of cavernosal tissues, mediated by nitric oxide (NO). Current medical therapies for ED largely seek to maximize endogenous NO signalling. Certain aetiologies, including diabetes, are difficult to treat with current modalities, emphasizing the need for new molecular targets. Research has demonstrated the importance of RhoA-Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) signalling in maintaining a flaccid penile state, and inhibition of RhoA-ROCK signalling potentiates smooth-muscle relaxation in an NO-independent manner. The mechanisms and effects of RhoA-ROCK signalling and inhibition suggest that the RhoA-ROCK pathway could prove to be a new therapeutic target for the treatment of ED.
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Toque HA, Caldwell RW. New approaches to the design and discovery of therapies to prevent erectile dysfunction. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2014; 9:1447-69. [DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2014.949234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Yetik-Anacak G, Sorrentino R, Linder AE, Murat N. Gas what: NO is not the only answer to sexual function. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 172:1434-54. [PMID: 24661203 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2013] [Revised: 02/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to get and keep an erection is important to men for several reasons and the inability is known as erectile dysfunction (ED). ED has started to be accepted as an early indicator of systemic endothelial dysfunction and subsequently of cardiovascular diseases. The role of NO in endothelial relaxation and erectile function is well accepted. The discovery of NO as a small signalling gasotransmitter led to the investigation of the role of other endogenously derived gases, carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulphide (H2 S) in physiological and pathophysiological conditions. The role of NO and CO in sexual function and dysfunction has been investigated more extensively and, recently, the involvement of H2 S in erectile function has also been confirmed. In this review, we focus on the role of these three sister gasotransmitters in the physiology, pharmacology and pathophysiology of sexual function in man, specifically erectile function. We have also reviewed the role of soluble guanylyl cyclase/cGMP pathway as a common target of these gasotransmitters. Several studies have proposed alternative therapies targeting different mechanisms in addition to PDE-5 inhibition for ED treatment, since some patients do not respond to these drugs. This review highlights complementary and possible coordinated roles for these mediators and treatments targeting these gasotransmitters in erectile function/ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Yetik-Anacak
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, İzmir, Turkey
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Sezen SF, Lagoda G, Musicki B, Burnett AL. Hydroxyl fasudil, an inhibitor of Rho signaling, improves erectile function in diabetic rats: a role for neuronal ROCK. J Sex Med 2014; 11:2164-71. [PMID: 24919622 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The pathogenesis of diabetic erectile dysfunction (ED) includes neuropathy, but the molecular basis for neurogenic ED is incompletely understood. The RhoA/ROCK pathway has been implicated in diabetic neuropathy and in ED, but its role in diabetic neurogenic ED is not known. AIMS The aim of this study was to determine whether hydroxyl fasudil, a ROCK inhibitor, affects diabetic neuropathy-related ED. METHODS Type 1 diabetes mellitus was induced in male rats by streptozotocin (75 mg/kg, intraperitoneally). After 8 weeks, diabetic rats were administered hydroxyl fasudil, a selective ROCK inhibitor (10 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneally) or vehicle, for 4 weeks. Age-matched control, nondiabetic, rats were treated intraperitoneally for 4 weeks with saline. At week 12, after a 2 day washout, neuro-stimulated erectile function was evaluated. Major pelvic ganglia (MPG) were collected for Western blot analysis of RhoA, ROCK-1, ROCK-2, phospho (P)-AKT (Ser(473) ), and P-phosphatase and tensin homolog (P-PTEN) (Ser(380) /Thr(382/383) ). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Effect of ROCK inhibitor hydroxyl fasudil on erectile function and ROCK/P-AKT/P-PTEN pathway in the MPG of diabetic rats. RESULTS Erectile response was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in diabetic rats compared with nondiabetic rats and was preserved (P < 0.05) in diabetic rats treated with hydroxyl fasudil. In diabetic rats, RhoA and ROCK-2 protein expressions in MPG were increased (P < 0.05) and remained increased in hydroxyl fasudil-treated rats. P-AKT (Ser(473) ) expression was decreased (P < 0.05), whereas P-PTEN (Ser(380) /Thr(382/383) ) expression was increased (P < 0.05) in MPG of diabetic rats compared with nondiabetic rats, and both were reversed (P < 0.05) in diabetic rats treated with hydroxyl fasudil. CONCLUSION Improved erectile function and restored P-AKT and P-PTEN in the MPG with hydroxyl fasudil treatment suggest the role of Rho signaling via PTEN/AKT pathway in neurogenic diabetic ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sena F Sezen
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Goswami SK, Inamdar MN, Jamwal R, Dethe S. Effect of Cinnamomum cassia methanol extract and sildenafil on arginase and sexual function of young male Wistar rats. J Sex Med 2014; 11:1475-83. [PMID: 24758372 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Herbs have been used as an aphrodisiac since ages. Cinnamomum cassia is an important ingredient of many Ayurvedic formulations to treat male sexual disorder including erectile dysfunction (ED). AIM The objective of the present study was to evaluate erectogenic and aphrodisiac activity of methanol extract of C. cassia bark in young male rats. METHODS Methanol extract of C. cassia was screened in vitro for arginase inhibition potential and IC50 was determined. Effect of the extract was observed in vitro on phenylephrine pre-contracted isolated rat corpus cavernosum smooth muscle (CCSM) at 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 μg/mL. Young male Wistar rats were dosed with extract at 100 mg/kg body weight for 28 days and its effects on sexual behavior and penile smooth muscle : collagen level were observed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Effect of C. cassia was studied on arginase activity in vitro and sexual behavior of young male rats. RESULTS C. cassia inhibited arginase activity in vitro with an IC50 of 61.72 ± 2.20 μg/mL. The extract relaxed phenylephrine pre-contracted isolated rat CCSM up to 43% and significantly increased (P < 0.05) sexual function of young male rats. Treatment with the extract also increased smooth muscle level and decreased collagen level in rat penile tissue. CONCLUSION The study proves usefulness of methanol extract of C. cassia bark for increasing sexual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumanta K Goswami
- Department of Pharmacology, Al-Ameen College of Pharmacy, Bangalore, India
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Goswami SK, Inamdar MN, Jamwal R, Dethe S. Efficacy of Cinnamomum cassia Blume. in age induced sexual dysfunction of rats. J Young Pharm 2013; 5:148-53. [PMID: 24563594 DOI: 10.1016/j.jyp.2013.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cinnamomum cassia has been suggested in Ayurveda for the management of sexual dysfunction. This research work was conducted to shed some light on the mechanism of action of the extract, and evaluate the efficacy of its methanol extract in age induced sexual dysfunction in male Wistar rats. Secondary objective of the project was to study the effect of treatment on sperm parameters and smooth muscle:collagen level in rat penile tissue. METHODS Young and aged male rats were treated with methanol extract of Cinnamomum cassia at a dose of 100 mg/kg and sexual behavior was observed on 28th day in presence of female rats in estrous phase. Sildenafil was used as standard medicine. Effect of treatment was studied on epididymal sperm parameters, and Massons trichrome staining of rat penile tissues was performed to know the level of smooth muscle:collagen. RESULTS The treatment significantly increased sexual function in aged rats that had decreased in comparison to young rats, but did not have any significant effect on sperm count, live and defective sperm percentage. However, treatment induced an increase in smooth muscle level and a decrease in collagen level in the aged rat penile tissue in comparison to that of age matched control. CONCLUSION Based on our studies, we found that Cinnamomum cassia extract was effective in management of sexual dysfunction in aged rats and hence we propose a possible mechanism of action for Cinnamomum cassia which could be responsible for restoring sexual activity in aged rat.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rohitash Jamwal
- Bioassay Lab, Research and Development Centre, Natural Remedies Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore 560100, India
| | - Shekhar Dethe
- Bioassay Lab, Research and Development Centre, Natural Remedies Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore 560100, India
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Decaluwé K, Pauwels B, Boydens C, Van de Voorde J. Treatment of erectile dysfunction: new targets and strategies from recent research. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2013; 121:146-57. [PMID: 24291648 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2013.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, research on penile erection has increasingly been centered on the molecular mechanisms involved. Major progress has been made in the field and at present a whole number of neurotransmitters, chemical effectors, growth factors, second-messenger molecules, ions, intercellular proteins, and hormones have been characterized as components of the complex process of erection. This knowledge has led to the discovery of several new therapeutic targets and multiple medical approaches for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). This review focuses on the progress made in this field within the last few years.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Decaluwé
- Department of Pharmacology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - B Pauwels
- Department of Pharmacology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - C Boydens
- Department of Pharmacology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - J Van de Voorde
- Department of Pharmacology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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Challa P, Arnold JJ. Rho-kinase inhibitors offer a new approach in the treatment of glaucoma. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2013; 23:81-95. [PMID: 24094075 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2013.840288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is a leading cause for worldwide blindness and is characterized by progressive optic nerve damage. The etiology of POAG is unknown, but elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and advanced age have been identified as risk factors. IOP reduction is the only known treatment for glaucoma. Recently, drugs that inhibit rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) have been studied in animals and people for their ability to lower IOP and potentially treat POAG. ROCK inhibitors lower IOP through a trabecular mechanism and may represent a new therapeutic paradigm for the treatment of POAG. AREAS COVERED Exploring the place that ROCK inhibitors may occupy in our treatment of POAG requires a thorough understanding of pathophysiology and treatment. This article summarizes current research on the incidence, proposed etiologies and mechanisms of action for this drug class. ROCK inhibitor research is presented and considered in light of the current standard of pharmacologic care. EXPERT OPINION ROCK inhibitors alter the cell shape and extracellular matrix (ECM) of the trabecular meshwork. Preclinical studies demonstrate that these drugs have the potential to become a new therapy for glaucoma. However, ROCK inhibitors can affect multiple cell types, and their utility can be proven only after clinical studies in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratap Challa
- Duke University, Ophthalmology , 2351 Erwin Road, Durham 27710 , USA
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Erectogenic and Aphrodisiac Effects of Butea frondosa Koenig ex Roxb. in Rats: Involvement of Enzyme Inhibition. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:874894. [PMID: 24069061 PMCID: PMC3773451 DOI: 10.1155/2013/874894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2013] [Revised: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Butea frondosa Koenig ex Roxb. (BF) is traditionally used to manage male sexual disorders including erectile dysfunction (ED). Methanol extract of BF (bark) inhibited Rho-kinase 2 (ROCK-II) enzyme activity in vitro with an IC50 of 20.29 ± 1.83 μg/mL. The relaxant effect of methanol extract of BF (MEBF) was studied on phenylephrine precontracted corpus cavernosum smooth muscle (CCSM) isolated from young rats. The effect of MEBF treatment on sexual behaviour of both young (5 month) and aged (24 month) rats was also studied in addition to the influence on smooth muscle, collagen (collagen-I and -III) level in penis, and sperm characteristics of young and aged rats. MEBF relaxed CCSM up to 21.77 ± 2.57% and increased sexual behavior of young and aged rats. This increase in sexual function could be attributed to ROCK-II inhibition and increase in ratio of smooth muscle to collagen level in rat penile tissue. Increased sperm production and decreased defective sperms in young and aged rats corroborate the usefulness of Butea frondosa in male infertility in addition to ED.
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Limited effect of testosterone treatment for erectile dysfunction caused by high-estrogen levels in rats. Int J Impot Res 2013; 25:201-5. [PMID: 23636276 DOI: 10.1038/ijir.2013.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Revised: 02/07/2013] [Accepted: 03/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Some studies suggest that high-estrogen levels lead to erectile dysfunction (ED); high-estrogen levels are known to decrease testosterone levels. However, no study has examined whether testosterone replacement can improve the ED induced by high-estrogen levels. We investigated the effects of testosterone on ED caused by high-estrogen levels in rats. Rats were distributed in the following groups: (1) control (vehicle for 2 weeks), (2) the estrogen-treated group (ES; estradiol (3 μg kg(-1) day(-1)) for 2 weeks), and (3) the estrogen- and testosterone-treated group (ES+TE; estradiol (3 μg kg(-1) day(-1)) and testosterone (3 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) for 2 weeks). We measured smooth muscle function via isometric tension and erectile function by measuring the intracavernosal pressure on cavernous nerve stimulation. In the ES group, the contraction of the corpus cavernosum smooth muscle increased in response to noradrenalin, and its relaxation decreased in response to the nitric oxide donor, sodium nitroprusside. Further, the erectile function was significantly decreased. In the ES+TE group, neither smooth muscle function nor erectile function was significantly improved. In conclusion, a high-estrogen milieu affected erectile function in rats, and testosterone treatment did not improve the ED caused by high-estrogen levels.
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Toque HA, Nunes KP, Yao L, Liao JK, Webb RC, Caldwell RB, Caldwell RW. Activated Rho kinase mediates diabetes-induced elevation of vascular arginase activation and contributes to impaired corpora cavernosa relaxation: possible involvement of p38 MAPK activation. J Sex Med 2013; 10:1502-15. [PMID: 23566117 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Activated RhoA/Rho kinase (ROCK) has been implicated in diabetes-induced erectile dysfunction. Earlier studies have demonstrated involvement of ROCK pathway in the activation of arginase in endothelial cells. However, signaling pathways activated by ROCK in the penis remain unclear. AIM We tested whether ROCK and p38 MAPK are involved in the elevation of arginase activity and subsequent impairment of corpora cavernosal (CC) relaxation in diabetes. METHODS Eight weeks after streptozotocin-induced diabetes, vascular functional studies, arginase activity assay, and protein expression of RhoA, ROCK, phospho-p38 MAPK, p38 MAPK, phospho-MYPT-1(Thr850), MYPT-1 and arginase levels were assessed in CC tissues from nondiabetic wild type (WT), diabetic (D) WT (WT + D), partial ROCK 2(+/-) knockout (KO), and ROCK 2(+/-) KO + D mice. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The expression of RhoA, ROCK 1 and 2, phosphorylation of MYPT-1(Thr850) and p38 MAPK, arginase activity/expression, endothelial- and nitrergic-dependent relaxation of CC was assayed. RESULTS Diabetes significantly reduced maximum relaxation (Emax ) to both endothelium-dependent acetylcholine (WT + D: Emax; 61 ± 4% vs. WT: Emax; 75 ± 2%) and nitrergic nerve stimulation. These effects were associated with increased expression of active RhoA, ROCK 2, phospho-MYPT-1(Thr850), phospho-p38 MAPK, arginase II, and activity of corporal arginase (1.6-fold) in WT diabetic CC. However, this impairment in CC of WT + D mice was absent in heterozygous ROCK 2(+/-) KO + D mice for acetylcholine (Emax : 80 ± 5%) and attenuated for nitrergic nerve-induced relaxation. CC of ROCK 2(+/-) KO + D mice showed much less ROCK activity, did not exhibit p38 MAPK activation, and had reduced arginase activity and arginase II expression. These findings indicate that ROCK 2 mediates diabetes-induced elevation of arginase activity. Additionally, pretreatment of WT diabetic CC with inhibitors of arginase (ABH) or p38 MAPK (SB203580) partially prevented impairment of ACh- and nitrergic nerve-induced relaxation and elevation of arginase activity. CONCLUSION ROCK 2, p38 MAPK and arginase play key roles in diabetes-induced impairment of CC relaxation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haroldo A Toque
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Georgia Health Sciences University, Augusta, GA 30912-2300, USA.
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Involvement of Rho-Kinase Signaling Pathways in Nerve Evoked and Spontaneous Contractions of the Guinea Pig Prostate. J Urol 2013; 189:1147-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2012.08.220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Li M, Zhuan L, Wang T, Rao K, Yang J, Yang J, Quan W, Liu J, Ye Z. Apocynin improves erectile function in diabetic rats through regulation of NADPH oxidase expression. J Sex Med 2012; 9:3041-50. [PMID: 23088159 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02960.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diabetes is a risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). The proposed mechanisms responsible for diabetic ED are associated with an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, overactivity of RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase, as seen in experimental models of diabetic rats. AIM The aim of this study was to investigate whether NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin can ameliorate Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes-related ED by reducing the ROS production and inhibiting the activity of RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway. METHODS The diabetic rats were treated with and without the NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Erectile responses were evaluated by determining mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and intracavernosal pressure (ICP) with electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Levels of mRNA expression were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Levels of protein expression were examined by Western Blot. ROS production was measured by dihydroethidium (DHE) staining and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assay. RESULTS The ratio of Maximum ICP-to-MAP (MaxICP/MAP) was significantly decreased in diabetic ED rats, compared to that of age-matched control rats (P < 0.05). Apocynin improved erectile function of diabetic rats (P < 0.05). Expression levels of RhoA (cytosol), nNOS and eNOS were reduced, compared to those of control rats (P < 0.05). Apocynin significantly elevated their expression levels in diabetic rats (P < 0.05). Expression levels of ROCK1, RhoA (membrane fraction), p-MYPT1 and NADPH oxidase subunits p47(phox) and p67(phox) were increased in diabetic rats when compared to those of control rats (P < 0.05), and it was observed that apocynin significantly reduced their expression levels in diabetic rats (P < 0.05). ROS production was increased in diabetic rats when compared to that of control rats (P < 0.05), the effect of apocynin was a reduction in the ROS production in diabetic rats (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin can ameliorate diabetes-related ED by reducing the ROS production and inhibiting the activity of RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingchao Li
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Hannan JL, Albersen M, Kutlu O, Gratzke C, Stief CG, Burnett AL, Lysiak JJ, Hedlund P, Bivalacqua TJ. Inhibition of Rho-kinase improves erectile function, increases nitric oxide signaling and decreases penile apoptosis in a rat model of cavernous nerve injury. J Urol 2012; 189:1155-61. [PMID: 23021998 DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2012.09.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Bilateral cavernous nerve injury results in up-regulation of ROCK signaling in the penis. This is linked to erectile dysfunction in an animal model of post-prostatectomy erectile dysfunction. We evaluated whether daily treatment with the ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 (Tocris Bioscience, Ellisville, Missouri) would prevent erectile dysfunction in a rat model of bilateral cavernous nerve injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sprague-Dawley® rats underwent surgery to create sham (14) or bilateral (27) cavernous nerve injury. In the injury group 13 rats received treatment with Y-27632 (5 mg/kg twice daily) and 14 received vehicle. At 14 days after injury, rats underwent cavernous nerve stimulation to determine erectile function. Penes were assessed for neuronal and nitric oxide synthase membrane-endothelial nitric oxide synthase. ROCK2 was assessed by Western blot. Cyclic guanosine monophosphate was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cavernous homogenates were tested for ROCK and protein kinase G enzymatic activity. Penile apoptosis was evaluated using the Apostain technique (Alexis, San Diego, California). Data were analyzed on ROCK using ANOVA and the t test. RESULTS While erectile function was decreased in rats with bilateral cavernous nerve injury, daily administration of Y-27632 improved erectile responses. Injury decreased neuronal and nitric oxide synthase membrane-endothelial nitric oxide synthase but ROCK2 was significantly increased. Y-27632 treatment restored neuronal nitric oxide synthase, nitric oxide synthase membrane-endothelial nitric oxide synthase and cyclic guanosine monophosphate levels, and protein kinase G activity. Treatment significantly decreased ROCK2 protein and ROCK activity. There were significantly fewer apoptotic cells after treatment than in injured controls. CONCLUSIONS These results provide evidence for up-regulation of the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway with detrimental effects on erectile function after bilateral cavernous nerve injury. ROCK inhibition improved erectile dysfunction associated with bilateral cavernous nerve injury by preserving penile nitric oxide bioavailability and decreasing penile apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna L Hannan
- James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA
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Nunes KP, Toque HA, Borges MH, Richardson M, Webb RC, de Lima ME. Erectile function is improved in aged rats by PnTx2-6, a toxin from Phoneutria nigriventer spider venom. J Sex Med 2012; 9:2574-81. [PMID: 22925420 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02878.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Age-associated erectile dysfunction (ED) involves a decrease in nitric oxide (NO) availability and impaired relaxation. PnTx2-6, a toxin from the Phoneutria nigriventer spider, has been demonstrated to improve erectile function via NO/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway. This spider's venom is characterized by several symptoms, including erection. PnTx2-6 has been implicated in this phenomenon. Animal venoms have been postulated as potential drugs to treat ED. AIM PnTx2-6 toxin improves erectile function in aged rats via NO/cGMP. We investigated the effect of PnTx2-6 in the erectile function of aged rats. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES ED was evaluated through changes in intracavernosal pressure/mean arterial pressure ratio during electrical field stimulation (EFS) of the pelvic ganglion of aged and adult rats (70 vs. 14 weeks). In functional studies, EFS-induced relaxation of corpus cavernosum (CC) strips were performed with or without PnTx2-6 (10-8M). RESULTS The decrease in erectile function associated with age was partially restored 15-20 minutes after injection of PnTx2-6 and further improved by sildenafil. PnTx2-6 enhanced EFS-induced relaxation, as well as cGMP levels in CC, from young and aged rats. Relaxation due to PnTx2-6 was further increased after 30 minutes incubation with Y-27632, a Rho-kinase inhibitor (10-6 M), in aging CC. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity in aged and young cavernosal tissue was increased by incubation with PnTx2-6 (10 minutes). However, this toxin did not modify NOS expression. CONCLUSION PnTx2-6 improves penile relaxation in aged rats, via increased NOS activity and NO release, resulting in enhanced cGMP levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenia P Nunes
- Department of Physiology, Georgia Health Sciences University, Augusta, GA, USA.
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Hakim L, Van der Aa F, Bivalacqua TJ, Hedlund P, Albersen M. Emerging tools for erectile dysfunction: a role for regenerative medicine. Nat Rev Urol 2012; 9:520-36. [PMID: 22824778 DOI: 10.1038/nrurol.2012.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most common sexual disorder reported by men to their health-care providers and the most investigated male sexual dysfunction. Currently, the treatment of ED focuses on 'symptomatic relief' of ED and, therefore, tends to provide temporary relief rather than providing a cure or reversing the cause. The identification of a large population of "difficult-to-treat" patients has triggered researchers to identify novel treatment approaches, which focus on cure and restoration of the underlying cause of ED. Regenerative medicine has developed extensively in the past few decades and preclinical trials have emphasized the benefit of growth factor therapy, gene transfer, stem cells and tissue engineering for the restoration of erectile function. Development of clinical trials involving immunomodulation in postprostatectomy ED patients and the use of maxi-K channels for gene therapy are illustrative of the advances in the field. However, the search for novel treatment targets and a wealth of preclinical studies represent a dynamic and continuing field of enquiry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukman Hakim
- Laboratory of Experimental Urology, Department of Urology, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Zohdi V, Wood BR, Pearson JT, Bambery KR, Black MJ. Evidence of altered biochemical composition in the hearts of adult intrauterine growth-restricted rats. Eur J Nutr 2012; 52:749-58. [PMID: 22645107 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-012-0381-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2012] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Epidemiological studies clearly link intrauterine growth restriction with increased risk of cardiac disease in adulthood. The mechanisms leading to this increased risk are poorly understood; remodeling of the myocardium is implicated. The aim was to determine the effect of early life growth restriction on the biochemical composition of the left ventricular myocardium in adult rats. METHODS Wistar Kyoto dams were fed either a low protein diet (LPD; 8.7 % casein) or normal protein diet (NPD; 20 % casein) during pregnancy and lactation; from weaning, the offspring were fed normal rat chow. At 18 weeks of age, the biochemical composition of the hearts of NPD control (n = 9) and LPD intrauterine growth-restricted (n = 7) offspring was analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) micro-spectroscopy. RESULTS Body weights at postnatal day 4 were significantly lower and remained lower throughout the experimental period in the LPD offspring compared to controls. FTIR analysis of the infrared absorption spectra across the whole "fingerprint" region (1,800-950 cm(-1)) demonstrated wider variation in absorbance intensity in the LPD group compared to controls. In particular, there were marked differences detected in the protein (1,540 cm(-1)), lipid (1,455 and 1,388 cm(-1)), proteoglycan (1,228 cm(-1)) and carbohydrate (1,038 cm(-1)) bands, indicating increased lipid, proteoglycan and carbohydrate content in the growth-restricted myocardium. CONCLUSION In conclusion, changes in the biochemical composition of the myocardium provide a likely mechanism for the increased vulnerability to cardiovascular disease in offspring that were growth restricted in early life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladislava Zohdi
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Segal R, Hannan JL, Liu X, Kutlu O, Burnett AL, Champion HC, Kim JH, Steppan J, Berkowitz DE, Bivalacqua TJ. Chronic oral administration of the arginase inhibitor 2(S)-amino-6-boronohexanoic acid (ABH) improves erectile function in aged rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 33:1169-75. [PMID: 22492840 DOI: 10.2164/jandrol.111.015834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Arginase expression and activity have been noted to be heightened in conditions associated with erectile dysfunction, including aging. Previously, arginase inhibition by chronic administration of the arginase inhibitor 2-(S)-amino-6-boronohexanoic acid (ABH) has been shown to improve endothelial dysfunction in aged rats. The objective of this study was to assess whether chronic oral ABH administration affects cavernosal erectile function. Rats were divided into 4 groups: young control, young treated with arginase inhibitor, aged control, and aged treated with arginase inhibitor. Arginase activity was measured and presented as a proportion of young untreated rats. In vivo erectile responses to cavernous nerve stimulation were measured in all cohorts. The cavernous nerve was stimulated with a graded electrical stimulus, and the intracavernosal/mean arterial pressure ratios and total intracavernosal pressure were recorded. Arginase activity was elevated in the aged rats compared with young controls; however, arginase activity was significantly decreased in aged rats treated with ABH. With the addition of ABH, erectile responses improved in the aged rats (P < .05). Oral inhibition of arginase with ABH results in improved erectile function in aged rats, resulting in erectile hemodynamics similar to young rats. This represents the first documentation of systemic arginase inhibition positively affecting corporal cavernosal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Segal
- Department of Urology, The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, Johns Hopkins MedicalInstitutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Erectile properties of the Rho-kinase inhibitor SAR407899 in diabetic animals and human isolated corpora cavernosa. J Transl Med 2012; 10:59. [PMID: 22444253 PMCID: PMC3328245 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-10-59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2012] [Accepted: 03/23/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background RhoA-Rho kinase complex contributes to keep the cavernosus smooth muscle contracted and its inhibition is considered a potential strategy for the therapy of erectile dysfunction (ED). Methods We compared the effects of SAR407899, the Rho-kinase inhibitor Y-27632 and the PDE5 inhibitor sildenafil for their ability to relax corpus cavernosum strips contracted with phenylephrine in healthy and diabetic animals. Strips were obtained from WKY, spontaneous hypertensive (SHR), control CD, and diabetic CD rats, humans, control and diabetic rabbits. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin or alloxan injection. In vivo penile erection (length) induced by drugs was measured in conscious rabbits. Results SAR407899 dose-dependently relaxed the pre-contracted corpora cavernosa in all species, with similar potency and efficacy in healthy vs diabetic rats, WKY vs SHR rats, healthy vs diabetic rabbits (IC50 range from 0.05 to 0.29 μM, Emax range 89 to 97%). In the presence of the NO-synthase (NOS) inhibitor, L-NAME, the SAR407899 response did not decrease in any of the species or experimental conditions. The effect was confirmed in human strips where sildenafil was significantly less potent and effective, with IC50 respectively 0.13 and 0.51 μM; Emax 92 and 43%. Unlike SAR407899, the potency and efficacy of sildenafil and Y27632 were significantly reduced by diabetes and L-NAME. In vivo, SAR407899 dose-dependently induced rabbit penile erection, with greater potency and longer duration of action than sildenafil. Sildenafil, but not SAR407899, was less effective in alloxan-induced diabetes. Conclusion The induction of penile erection by SAR407899, unlike that by sildenafil, is largely independent of e-NO activity. This suggests its use in erectile dysfunction for diabetic and hypertensive patients where e-NO activity is impaired.
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Waldkirch ES, Ückert S, Sohn M, Kuczyk MA, Hedlund P. Rho kinase (ROK)-related proteins in human cavernous arteries: an immunohistochemical and functional approach. J Sex Med 2012; 9:1337-43. [PMID: 22375910 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02662.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rho kinases (ROKs) cause calcium-independent modulation of smooth muscle contraction. A significant role for the RhoA/ROK pathway in mediating the contraction of the penile erectile tissue has been suggested. Moreover, it has been postulated that ROK activity might represent a key factor in the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction. Up until today, little is known on the significance of ROK and related proteins in the control of blood flow in the corpus cavernosum. AIM To investigate by means of immunohistochemistry and organ bath studies the significance of the Rho pathway in human cavernous arteries. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The expression of ROK1, ROK2, RhoA, and RhoGDI in human cavernous arteries was investigated by means of immunohistochemistry; myographic studies were conducted in order to characterize the effects of the ROK inhibitor Y27632 on isolated cavernous arteries. METHODS Specimens of human cavernous arteries were processed for immunohistochemistry for ROK1, ROK2, RhoA, and RhoGDI. Circular penile vascular segments were mounted in a tissue bath and the effects of increasing concentrations of the ROK inhibitor Y27632 on the tension induced by norepinephrine (NE, 1 µM) were investigated. RESULTS Alpha-actin immunoreactive cavernous arterioles also presented abundant staining specific for ROK1, ROK2, RhoA, and RhoGDI in the smooth musculature of the vascular wall. Cumulative addition of Y27632 dose-dependently reversed the tension induced by NE of isolated arterial segments. Y27632 produced relaxant responses with a reversion of tension of 34.3 ± 11.8% at a concentration of 1 µM. CONCLUSION The findings are in support for a role of the Rho/ROK-mediated signaling in the regulation of muscle tone of human cavernous arteries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eginhard S Waldkirch
- Hannover Medical School, Division of Surgery, Department of Urology & Urological Oncology, Hannover, Germany.
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Age-related changes in endothelial function and blood flow regulation. Pharmacol Ther 2012; 133:159-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2011.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2011] [Accepted: 10/14/2011] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Mazur DJ, Helfand BT, McVary KT. Influences of Neuroregulatory Factors on the Development of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms/Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Erectile Dysfunction in Aging Men. Urol Clin North Am 2012; 39:77-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ucl.2011.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Bivalacqua TJ, Musicki B, Kutlu O, Burnett AL. New Insights into the Pathophysiology of Sickle Cell Disease‐Associated Priapism. J Sex Med 2012; 9:79-87. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02288.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Decaluwé K, Pauwels B, Verpoest S, Van de Voorde J. New Therapeutic Targets for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction. J Sex Med 2011; 8:3271-90. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02459.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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The promise of inhibition of smooth muscle tone as a treatment for erectile dysfunction: where are we now? Int J Impot Res 2011; 24:49-60. [PMID: 21975566 DOI: 10.1038/ijir.2011.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Ten years ago, the inhibition of Rho kinase by intracavernosal injection of Y-27632 was found to induce an erectile response. This effect did not require activation of nitric oxide-mediated signaling, introducing a novel target pathway for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), with potential added benefit in cases where nitric oxide bioavailability is attenuated (and thus phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are less efficacious). Rho-kinase antagonists are currently being developed and tested for a wide range of potential uses. The inhibition of this calcium-sensitizing pathway results in blood vessel relaxation. It is also possible that blockade of additional smooth muscle contractile signaling mechanisms may have the same effect. In this review, we conducted an extensive search of pertinent literature using PUBMED. We have outlined the various pathways involved in the maintenance of penile smooth muscle tone and discussed the current potential benefit for the pharmacological inhibition of these targets for the treatment of ED.
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Yono M, Tanaka T, Tsuji S, Irie S, Sakata Y, Otani M, Yoshida M, Latifpour J. Effects of age and hypertension on α1-adrenoceptors in the major source arteries of the rat bladder and penis. Eur J Pharmacol 2011; 670:260-5. [PMID: 21910985 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2011.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2011] [Revised: 07/26/2011] [Accepted: 08/17/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
α(1)-Adrenoceptors regulate blood pressure, regional vascular resistance and tissue blood flow. As aging and hypertension may impact pelvic arterial blood flow resulting in bladder and penile dysfunction, we investigated effects of age and hypertension on α(1)-adrenoceptors in the major source arteries of the rat bladder and penis. Using radioligand receptor binding, real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and fluorescent microsphere infusion techniques, we compared 3 and 22-month-old male Fischer rats, and male normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Twenty-two-month-old rats and SHRs had significantly higher total α(1)-adrenoceptor density in the internal iliac artery and lower blood flow to the bladder and penis than 3-month-old and WKY rats, respectively. RT-PCR data showed an age and hypertension related increase in the expression of α(1B)-adrenoceptor mRNA in the internal iliac, vesical and internal pudendal arteries and a switch from α(1A) predominance in 3-month-old and WKY rats to α(1B)>α(1A) in 22-month-old rats and SHRs. Our data indicate the presence of age and hypertension related alterations in vascular α(1)-adrenoceptor subtype distribution and in blood flow to the rat bladder and penis. These findings suggest that pharmacological blockade of the vascular α(1B)-adrenoceptor, which could increase pelvic blood flow, may contribute to the improvement of bladder and penile dysfunctions in animal models for aging and hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Yono
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Nishi-Kumamoto Hospital, Medical Co. LTA, 1012 Koga, Tomiai-machi, Kumamoto 861-4157, Japan.
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