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Khodamoradi K, Dullea A, Campbell K, Ramsoomair C, Golan R, Ramasamy R. Androgen Receptor Signaling is Similar in Human Corpus Cavernosum in Men with Different Serum Testosterone Levels. Eur Urol Focus 2023; 9:60-63. [PMID: 36272925 DOI: 10.1016/j.euf.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testosterone (T) plays an important role in male reproductive function and tissue development. Normal serum T levels vary between 300 and 1000 ng/dl. It is not known, however, if varying serum T levels alter androgen receptor (AR) signaling in tissue. OBJECTIVE To measure AR signaling levels in human corpus cavernosal tissue in males with different serum T levels. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Participants were selected from a group of males undergoing surgical management for erectile dysfunction (ED; penile prosthesis placement). T levels were measured 1 week before surgery and a sample of corpus cavernosal tissue was procured during surgery. The tissue was homogenized, measured for protein concentration, and used for western blot analysis. VEGF was selected as an AR marker and actin was used for protein normalization. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS VEGF and actin expression levels were analyzed using western blot analysis and ImageJ was used for quantification of antibody expression. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS AR signaling was measured in terms of VEGF expression. Above a T level of 200 ng/dl, there was no significant difference found in VEGF expression. Only one patient had a T level less than 200 ng/dl, limiting the generalizability of these results. In addition, all patients had a history of ED, and controls (patients without ED) were not included in the study. CONCLUSIONS Above a serum T level of 200 ng/dl, there was no significant difference in AR signaling. This finding suggests that there could be a saturation level present in corpus cavernosal tissue that is approximately 200 ng/dl. PATIENT SUMMARY Serum testosterone levels above a certain threshold may not be necessary for biological functions. Instead, it is most likely that there is an approximate serum testosterone level that fully saturates tissue androgen receptors and results in peak function in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kajal Khodamoradi
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Alexandra Dullea
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Katherine Campbell
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Christian Ramsoomair
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Roei Golan
- Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, Fl, 32304
| | - Ranjith Ramasamy
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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Alan E, Albayrak G, Sevin G, Yetik-Anacak G, Baykan S. Relaxation mechanisms of chloroform root extracts of Prangos heyniae and Prangos uechtritzii on mouse corpus cavernosum. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14604. [PMID: 36163644 DOI: 10.1111/and.14604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve/maintain an erection. Because of the side effects, interactions, or ineffectiveness of currently used drugs, novel drug discovery studies are ongoing. The roots of Turkish endemic plants Prangos uechtritzii and Prangos heyniae are traditionally used as aphrodisiacs in Anatolia and contain coumarin-like relaxant compounds. This study aims to reveal the relaxant effect mechanisms of chloroform root extracts of P. heyniae (Ph-CE) and P. uechtritzii (Pu-CE). Isolated organ bath experiments were performed on Swiss albino mouse corpus cavernosum by DMT strip myograph. Relaxant responses to extract (10-7 -10-4 g/ml) were obtained in the presence/absence of NO and H2 S synthesis inhibitors nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME, 100 μM) and aminooxyacetic acid (AOAA, 10 mM) respectively. Sodium nitroprusside (SNP, 10-9 to 10-4 M) and Na2 S (10-6 to 3 × 10-3 M)-induced relaxations and CaCl2 (10-6 to 10-4 M), KCl (10-2.1 to 10-0.9 M) and phenylephrine (3 × 10-8 to 3 × 10-5 M)-induced contractions were taken in the presence/absence of the extracts (10-4 g/ml). Relaxations induced by Ph-CE but not by Pu-CE were inhibited in the presence of l-NAME and AOAA. Ph-CE increased Na2 S- and SNP-induced relaxations. Ph-CE and Pu-CE decreased the contractions of KCl, phenylephrine, and CaCl2 . It was concluded that NO and H2 S synthesis/downstream mechanisms play roles in relaxations of Ph-CE but not in Pu-CE-induced relaxations. Inhibition of calcium influx appears to be involved in the relaxant effect of Ph-CE and Pu-CE. Since the extracts act directly by relaxing smooth muscle or through H2 S as well as NO, they may be a potential therapeutic agent in diseases such as ED where the bioavailability of NO is impaired.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Alan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Gokay Albayrak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Türkiye
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Izmir Katip Çelebi University, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Gulnur Sevin
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Gunay Yetik-Anacak
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Sura Baykan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Türkiye
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Cirino G, Szabo C, Papapetropoulos A. Physiological roles of hydrogen sulfide in mammalian cells, tissues and organs. Physiol Rev 2022; 103:31-276. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00028.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
H2S belongs to the class of molecules known as gasotransmitters, which also includes nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO). Three enzymes are recognized as endogenous sources of H2S in various cells and tissues: cystathionine g-lyase (CSE), cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST). The current article reviews the regulation of these enzymes as well as the pathways of their enzymatic and non-enzymatic degradation and elimination. The multiple interactions of H2S with other labile endogenous molecules (e.g. NO) and reactive oxygen species are also outlined. The various biological targets and signaling pathways are discussed, with special reference to H2S and oxidative posttranscriptional modification of proteins, the effect of H2S on channels and intracellular second messenger pathways, the regulation of gene transcription and translation and the regulation of cellular bioenergetics and metabolism. The pharmacological and molecular tools currently available to study H2S physiology are also reviewed, including their utility and limitations. In subsequent sections, the role of H2S in the regulation of various physiological and cellular functions is reviewed. The physiological role of H2S in various cell types and organ systems are overviewed. Finally, the role of H2S in the regulation of various organ functions is discussed as well as the characteristic bell-shaped biphasic effects of H2S. In addition, key pathophysiological aspects, debated areas, and future research and translational areas are identified A wide array of significant roles of H2S in the physiological regulation of all organ functions emerges from this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Cirino
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Csaba Szabo
- Chair of Pharmacology, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Papapetropoulos
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece & Clinical, Experimental Surgery and Translational Research Center, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Greece
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Zhang J, Liu W, Bi M, Xu J, Yang H, Zhang Y. Noble Gases Therapy in Cardiocerebrovascular Diseases: The Novel Stars? Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:802783. [PMID: 35369316 PMCID: PMC8966230 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.802783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiocerebrovascular diseases (CCVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide; therefore, to deeply explore the pathogenesis of CCVDs and to find the cheap and efficient strategies to prevent and treat CCVDs, these are of great clinical and social significance. The discovery of nitric oxide (NO), as one of the endothelium-derived relaxing factors and its successful utilization in clinical practice for CCVDs, provides new ideas for us to develop drugs for CCVDs: “gas medicine” or “medical gases.” The endogenous gas molecules such as carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), sulfur dioxide (SO2), methane (CH4), and hydrogen (H2) have essential biological effects on modulating cardiocerebrovascular homeostasis and CCVDs. Moreover, it has been shown that noble gas atoms such as helium (He), neon (Ne), argon (Ar), krypton (Kr), and xenon (Xe) display strong cytoprotective effects and therefore, act as the exogenous pharmacologic preventive and therapeutic agents for CCVDs. Mechanistically, besides the competitive inhibition of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor in nervous system by xenon, the key and common mechanisms of noble gases are involved in modulation of cell death and inflammatory or immune signals. Moreover, gases interaction and reduction in oxidative stress are emerging as the novel biological mechanisms of noble gases. Therefore, to investigate the precise actions of noble gases on redox signals, gases interaction, different cell death forms, and the emerging field of gasoimmunology, which focus on the effects of gas atoms/molecules on innate immune signaling or immune cells under both the homeostatic and perturbed conditions, these will help us to uncover the mystery of noble gases in modulating CCVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiongshan Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Research Centre for Integrative Medicine (Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pathogenesis and Therapy Research), Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingmin Bi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinwen Xu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Research Centre for Integrative Medicine (Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pathogenesis and Therapy Research), Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongzhi Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaxing Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Research Centre for Integrative Medicine (Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pathogenesis and Therapy Research), Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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Sevin G, Alan E, Demir S, Albayrak G, Demiroz T, Yetik-Anacak G, Baykan S. Comparative evaluation of relaxant effects of three prangos species on mouse corpus cavernosum: Chemical characterization and the relaxant mechanisms of action of P. pabularia and (+)-oxypeucedanin. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 284:114823. [PMID: 34775035 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most common form of sexual dysfunction which has been the topic of great interest through the history by all cultures. It is now among the most treated health problems in men of all ages that develop under the influence of lifestyle factors and some diseases. Plants are extensively used to cure sexual dysfunction for centuries. Roots of Prangos sp. have been used to improve sexual performance in Anatolian traditional medicine and are rich of coumarin, furanocoumarin and their derivatives. Scientific research is necessary to support and validate the ethno-traditional uses of these plants. AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the root extracts of P. pabularia, P. uechtritzii and P. heyniae on erectile function and to isolate and identify the chemical compounds of the most active extract and reveal possible pharmacological mechanism of the major compound of the extract with the strongest relaxant effect in mouse corpus cavernosum (MCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS The roots of plants were extracted with chloroform, n-hexane and methanol. The compounds were isolated from the extract by column chromatography and structures were identified by NMR and MS. The relaxant effects of extracts (10-7-10-4 g/mL), (+)-oxypeucedanin (10-7-10-4 M) and Na2S (10-7-3 × 10-3 M) were tested in MCC strips by DMT myograph. To investigate the mechanism, the synthesis inhibitors of aminooxyacetic acid (AOAA, 10-2 M) and nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10-4 M) were used, respectively. H2S formation was evaluated basal and L-cysteine (L-cyst)-stimulated conditions by H2S microsensor. RESULTS All extracts relaxed MCC in a concentration dependent manner. The maximum relaxing effects were achieved with chloroform extracts. Chloroform extract of P. pabularia (Pp-CE) was more potent than the others. Pp-CE-induced relaxations were significantly decreased by AOAA and L-NAME. (+)-Oxypeucedanin, the major compound of Pp-CE, induced relaxant responses and this effect was inhibited by AOAA, but not L-NAME. The relaxation of (+)-oxypeucedanin was found to be similar in view of Emax to positive control H2S donor Na2S. (+)-Oxypeucedanin increased L-cyst-stimulated H2S formation. Augmentation of H2S synthesis with (+)-oxypeucedanin was inhibited by AOAA. CONCLUSIONS Pp-CE has the strongest effect on relaxation of MCC and this result supports the traditional aphrodisiac use of P. pabularia root extract in Anatolia. The pharmacological mechanisms of Pp-CE to relax MCC involve NO and H2S formation. (+)-Oxypeucedanin could be responsible for the H2S-mediated relaxations of Pp-CE in MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulnur Sevin
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Elif Alan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Serdar Demir
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gokay Albayrak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey; Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Tugce Demiroz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gunay Yetik-Anacak
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sura Baykan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey.
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6
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Liu L, Wang X, Liu K, Kang J, Wang S, Song Y, Zhou K, Yi L, Liu X. Inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase improved erectile dysfunction in rats with type 1 diabetes. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14138. [PMID: 34137064 DOI: 10.1111/and.14138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM), which is closely related to microvascular dysfunction, is a risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). Furthermore, the upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is associated with systemic vascular dysfunction in rats with diabetes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of iNOS in diabetes mellitus erectile dysfunction (DMED). First, we developed a type 1 DM rat model using streptozotocin and selected those that developed DMED. Then, we injected these rats with the 1400W, an iNOS inhibitor, for 10 weeks and subsequently assessed their ED. Lastly, we performed various molecular studies and histopathological analyses of penile tissues collected from these rats after the experiments. Through the histopathological studies, we also found that the treatment restored the ratios of the smooth muscle to collagen fibres, delayed the development of microvascular injury and alleviated the oxidative stress caused by hyperglycaemia. Based on these results, we confirmed that upregulation of iNOS leads to microvascular dysfunction in patients with ED. Overall, we found that inhibition of iNOS displayed beneficial effects in the treatment of ED, suggesting that its mechanism should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Kang Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiaqi Kang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shangren Wang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuxuan Song
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Kechong Zhou
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lu Yi
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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Zhang Y, Liu H, Xu J, Zheng S, Zhou L. Hydrogen Gas: A Novel Type of Antioxidant in Modulating Sexual Organs Homeostasis. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:8844346. [PMID: 33510842 PMCID: PMC7826209 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8844346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Sex is a science of cutting edge but bathed in mystery. Coitus or sexual intercourse, which is at the core of sexual activities, requires healthy and functioning vessels to supply the pelvic region, thus contributing to clitoris erection and vaginal lubrication in female and penile erection in male. It is well known that nitric oxide (NO) is the main gas mediator of penile and clitoris erection. In addition, the lightest and diffusible gas molecule hydrogen (H2) has been shown to improve erectile dysfunction (ED), testis injuries, sperm motility in male, preserve ovarian function, protect against uterine inflammation, preeclampsia, and breast cancer in female. Mechanistically, H2 has strong abilities to attenuate excessive oxidative stress by selectively reducing cytotoxic oxygen radicals, modulate immunity and inflammation, and inhibit injuries-induced cell death. Therefore, H2 is a novel bioactive gas molecule involved in modulating sexual organs homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxing Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haimei Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinwen Xu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuhui Zheng
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lequan Zhou
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Yang R, Liu C, Li Q, Wang W, Wu B, Chen A, Wang B, Li W, Chen J. Artificial intelligence based identification of the functional role of hirudin in diabetic erectile dysfunction treatment. Pharmacol Res 2021; 163:105244. [PMID: 33053440 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic erectile dysfunction (DED) hugely affected the patients' sexual life quality. However, there are no satisfactory therapeutic methods and intervention targets for this subtype of erectile dysfunction (ED). Inspired by the clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), we found that hirudin, the main active ingredient in the leech, could ameliorate the ED symptoms of the DED mouse model. To further reveal the underlying mechanism of hirudin, we designed a novel strategy to discover potential targets based on the diagnostic system of TCM, and found that myeloperoxidase (MPO) was a promising target of hirudin. Hirudin directly interacts with MPO and inhibits its activity, thus further decreases the content of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) in serum. Our results demonstrated that the hirudin could ameliorate the symptoms of DED, and revealed the underlying mechanism of hirudin in regulating the activity of MPO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruocong Yang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, China
| | - Chao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Qianqian Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, China
| | - Weilu Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, China
| | - Bingbing Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Aiping Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Jianxin Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, China.
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Liu QW, Yang ZH, Jiang J, Jiang R. Icariin modulates eNOS activity via effect on post-translational protein-protein interactions to improve erectile function of spontaneously hypertensive rats. Andrology 2021; 9:342-351. [PMID: 33507631 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitor (PDE5I) has become the first-line treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). However, its effective rate for hypertension ED is only 60%-70%. How to improve the efficacy of ED treatment is the focus of current research. OBJECTIVE To explore whether icariin can improve the erectile function of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) by affecting post-translational protein-protein interactions to regulate endothelial nitric oxide synthetase (eNOS) activity. METHOD Twelve-week-old healthy male SHR rats and Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) were randomly divided into four groups: SHR control group, SHR + icariin (10 mg/kg·d gavage) treatment group, WKY control group, and WKY + icariin (10 mg/kg·d gavage) treatment group (n = 5). After 4 weeks, the maximum penile intracavernous pressure/mean arterial pressure (ICPmax/MAP), the expression of heat-shock protein 90 (Hsp90), caveolin-1, calmodulin, p-eNOS, and eNOS in penile cavernous tissue and the content of nitric oxide (NO) and cGMP were measured. The interaction between eNOS and Hsp90, caveolin-1, and calmodulin were detected by immunoprecipitation. RESULT The ICPmax/MAP in the SHR + icariin treatment group (0.08 ± 0.01, 0.23 ± 0.07, 0.40 ± 0.05) was significantly higher than the SHR group (0.03 ± 0.01, 0.13 ± 0.03, 0.21 ± 0.02) under 3V and 5V electrical stimulations (P < .05). Compared with the SHR group, the expression of HSP90, calmodulin, P-eNOS, eNOS, and P-eNOS/eNOS in the penile cavernous tissue of rats in the WKY group and the SHR + icariin treatment group were significantly increased (P < .05), and the expression of caveolin-1 was significantly decreased (P < .05). The NO content (2.16 ± 0.22 μmol/g) and cGMP concentration (3.69 ± 0.12 pmol/mg) in the SHR + icariin treatment group were significantly higher than those in the SHR group (1.01 ± 0.14 μmol/g, 2.31 ± 0.22 pmol/mg) (P < .05). Compared with the SHR group, the interaction between eNOS and HSP90 in the cavernosa of the rats in the SHR + icariin treatment group was significantly increased (P < .05), the interaction between eNOS and caveolin-1 was significantly decreased (P < .01), and the interaction between eNOS and calmodulin did not significantly change. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Up-regulating the expression of HSP90 and calmodulin and inhibiting caveolin-1 in SHR corpus cavernosum, promoting the interaction between eNOS and HSP90, inhibiting the interaction between eNOS and caveolin-1, increasing p-eNOS/eNOS, may be the mechanism of icariin that improves SHR erectile function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin-Wen Liu
- Department of Urology, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Hui Yang
- Department of Pathology, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jun Jiang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Rui Jiang
- Department of Urology, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Nephropathy Clinical Medical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Luzhou, China
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Kara E, Kahraman E, Dayar E, Yetik Anacak G, Demir O, Gidener S, Atabey N, Durmus N. The role of resistin on metabolic syndrome-induced erectile dysfunction and the possible therapeutic effect of Boldine. Andrology 2020; 8:1728-1735. [PMID: 32609430 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Resistin is known as a potential mediator of obesity-associated insulin resistance. The high resistin level disrupts nitric oxide (NO)-mediated relaxation which is also important in erectile function. An antioxidant alkaloid, Boldine, is known as anti-diabetic and protects endothelial functions. OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate resistin expression in penile tissue in the presence of insulin resistance (IR) and the effect of Boldine treatment on erectile functions in the metabolic syndrome (MetS) rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: Control, MetS, and boldine treated MetS group. MetS parameters were assessed by serum triglycerides (TG), uric acid (UA), glucose, insulin levels, HOMA index, and waist circumference (WC)/tibia length (TL) ratio. To evaluate erectile functions, intracavernous pressure (ICP)/mean arterial pressure (MAP) ratio was performed during cavernous nerve stimulation. Protein expressions of resistin, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), p(S1177) eNOS, and insulin receptor-β were evaluated by Western blotting. RESULTS TG, glucose, insulin levels, weight, WC/TL ratio, HOMA index and resistin expression in penile tissue were significantly increased and ICP/MAP values, and p (S1177) eNOS expression in penile tissue were decreased in MetS group. Boldine treatment enhanced ICP/MAP values, insulin receptor-β and p(S1177) eNOS expressions compared with the MetS group. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION MetS caused a deterioration in erectile function accompanied by an increase in resistin expression and a reduction in eNOS enzyme activation in the rat penile tissues. Boldine treatment resulted in an improvement in erectile function, independent of resistin expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erkan Kara
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Ezgi Dayar
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gunay Yetik Anacak
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Parmacy, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Omer Demir
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sedef Gidener
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Nese Atabey
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Nergiz Durmus
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
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Sodium Tanshinone IIA Sulfonate Attenuates Erectile Dysfunction in Rats with Hyperlipidemia. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:7286958. [PMID: 32215177 PMCID: PMC7081035 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7286958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hyperlipidemia is considered one of the most important risk factors for erectile dysfunction (ED). To determine the effect of sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate (STS) as an antioxidant agent on ED in high-fat diet- (HFD-) induced hyperlipidemia in rats and to investigate if STS administration could improve erectile function via hydrogen sulfide (H2S) production by inhibition of oxidative stress. Hyperlipidemia was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by feeding HFD for 16 weeks. The rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: control, HFD, and HFD treated with STS (10 mg/kg/day for 12 weeks, intraperitoneal injection). Erectile function including intracavernosal pressure (ICP), H2S production, and antioxidant capacity was assessed. In addition, cavernosal smooth muscle cells (CSMC) isolated from SD rats were pretreated with STS in vitro and exposed to H2O2. Expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), activity of antioxidant enzymes, and H2S-generating enzymes within CSMC were examined. ICP was significantly decreased in HFD rats compared with control. In addition, decreased H2S production and expression of cystathionine ɣ-lyase (CSE) and cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) associated with increased oxidative stress were observed in the penile tissue of HFD rats. However, all these changes were reversed by 16 weeks after STS administration. STS also increased antioxidant defense as evidenced by increased expression of Nrf2/HO-1 in the penile tissue of HFD rats. In CSMC, pretreatment with STS attenuated the decreased expression of CSE and CBS and H2S production by H2O2. STS exerted similar protective antioxidative effect as shown in the in vivo hyperlipidemia model. The present study demonstrated the redox effect of STS treatment on ED via increased H2S production in HFD-induced hyperlipidemia rat model by increased antioxidant capacity via activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, which provides STS potential clinical application in the treatment of hyperlipidemia-related ED.
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12
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Otasevic V, Stancic A, Korac A, Jankovic A, Korac B. Reactive oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur species in human male fertility. A crossroad of cellular signaling and pathology. Biofactors 2020; 46:206-219. [PMID: 31185138 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a significant global health problem that currently affects one of six couples in reproductive age. The quality of male reproductive cells dramatically decreased over the last years and almost every aspect of modern life additionally worsen sperm functional parameters that consequently markedly increase male infertility. This clearly points out the importance of finding a new approach to treat male infertility. Redox signaling mediated by reactive oxygen, nitrogen and sulfur species (ROS, RNS, and RSS respectively), has appeared important for sperm reproductive function. Present review summarizes the current knowledge of ROS, RNS, and RSS in male reproductive biology and identifies potential targets for development of novel pharmacological and therapeutic approaches for male infertility by targeted therapeutic modulation of redox signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vesna Otasevic
- University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research "Sinisa Stankovic", Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Stancic
- University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research "Sinisa Stankovic", Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Korac
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Biology, Center for Electron Microscopy, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Jankovic
- University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research "Sinisa Stankovic", Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Bato Korac
- University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research "Sinisa Stankovic", Belgrade, Serbia
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13
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Mostafa T, Rashed L, Nabil N, Abo-Sief AF, Mohamed MM, Omar MS. Cavernosal hydrogen sulfide levels are associated with nitric oxide and hemeoxygenase levels in diabetic rats. Int J Impot Res 2018; 31:105-110. [PMID: 30291313 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-018-0084-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Penile erection is a neuromuscular event modulated by psyche, hormones as well as neurotransmitters. This pre-clinical study aimed to assess hydrogen sulfide (H2S) relationship with nitric oxide (NO) and hemeoxygenase (HO) in the cavernous tissues of diabetic rats. Overall, 90 adult male rats were investigated (6 groups, n = 15 each). They were subdivided into the following groups; untreated rats, rats treated with H2S donor/inhibitor, induced diabetic rats, diabetic rats treated with H2S donor/inhibitor. At the 6th week, the rats were killed to assess cavernous tissue cGMP, NO, H2S, HO enzyme activity levels. The rats treated with H2S donor showed increased mean cavernous tissue cGMP, NO, H2S, and HO enzyme activity levels whereas induced diabetic rats and rats treated with H2S inhibitor showed significant decreases in these parameters compared with the untreated rats. On the other hands, diabetic rats treated with H2S donor showed elevated mean cavernous tissue cGMP, NO, H2S, and HO enzyme activity levels whereas diabetic rats treated with H2S inhibitor showed significant decreases in these parameters compared with diabetic rats. Cavernous tissue H2S levels exhibited significant positive correlations with the cavernous tissue levels cGMP, NO, and HO enzyme activity levels. From these results, it could be concluded that cavernous tissues H2S plays a role of male sexual health by affecting cavernous tissues NO and HO enzyme activity in general and in diabetics in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taymour Mostafa
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Laila Rashed
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nashaat Nabil
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Ahmed F Abo-Sief
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Mai M Mohamed
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Maroa S Omar
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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Compositional, ultrastructural and nanotechnological characterization of the SMA strain of Saccharomyces pastorianus: Towards a more complete fermentation yeast cell analysis. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0200552. [PMID: 29995965 PMCID: PMC6040772 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Nano scanning Auger microscopy (NanoSAM) and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) have been used in materials science research for some time, but NanoSAM, in particular, has only recently been applied to biological specimens. Here, the first concurrent utilization of NanoSAM, TOF-SIMS and microscopic techniques for the examination of a standard beverage fermentation strain of Saccharomyces pastorianus uncovered the presence of intracellular networks of CO2 in fermenting cells. Respiring cells produced few bubbles and instead had large internal vacuolar structures. Transmission electron microscopy analysis also showed osmiophilic layers at the cell exterior of fermenting cells that became more prevalent with fermentation duration, while osmiophilic layers were largely absent in respiring cells. TOF-SIMS analysis showed a compositional difference at the exterior and interior of SMA cells and between fermenting and respiring cells. Fermenting cells also appeared to have different 3-OH oxylipin profiles compared to respiring cells based upon examination with immunofluorescence microscopy. The results of this work and further study using these materials science techniques will substantially enhance our understanding of the chemical, ultrastructural and metabolic changes that occur in fermentation yeasts.
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Santi D, Spaggiari G, Gilioli L, Potì F, Simoni M, Casarini L. Molecular basis of androgen action on human sexual desire. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 467:31-41. [PMID: 28893567 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction is a fundamental process for the species maintenance and the propagation of genetic information. The energy expenditure for mating is overtaken by motivational stimuli, such as orgasm, finely regulated by steroid hormones, gonadotropins, neurotransmitters and molecules acting in the brain and peripheral organs. These functions are often investigated using animal models and translated to humans, where the androgens action is mediated by nuclear and membrane receptors converging in the regulation of both long-term genomic and rapid non-genomic signals. In both sexes, testosterone is a central player of this game and is involved in the regulation of sexual desire and arousal, and, finally, in reproduction through cognitive and peripheral physiological mechanisms which may decline with aging and circadian disruption. Finally, genetic variations impact on reproductive behaviours, resulting in sex-specific effect and different reproductive strategies. In this review, androgen actions on sexual desire are evaluated, focusing on the molecular levels of interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giorgia Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Lisa Gilioli
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Potì
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda OU of Modena, Modena, Italy; Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Salami SA, Salahdeen HM, Ugbebor EC, Murtala BA, Raji Y. Effects of aqueous leaf extract of Tridax procumbens on contractile activity of corpus cavernosum in N -nitro- l -arginine methyl ester-induced hypertensive male rats. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE-JIM 2018; 16:51-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Potassium channels modulate the action but not the synthesis of hydrogen sulfide in rat corpus cavernosum. Life Sci 2017; 189:39-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2017.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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18
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d'Emmanuele di Villa Bianca R, Fusco F, Mirone V, Cirino G, Sorrentino R. The Role of the Hydrogen Sulfide Pathway in Male and Female Urogenital System in Health and Disease. Antioxid Redox Signal 2017; 27:654-668. [PMID: 28398118 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2017.7079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE The endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) pathway produces an array of biological effects that vary depending on the bodily region. In addition, the H2S pathway's relevance often changes depending on a healthy or disease state. There is abundant evidence pointing to a key role for this pathway in male and female genito-urinary diseases, suggesting it as a possible target for new therapeutic approaches. Recent Advances: The tissue-specific localization of the H2S enzymes in the genito-urinary tract has allowed for a better understanding of its role in the body's pathophysiology. Indeed, in humans, cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE) plays a major role in corpus cavernosum whereas cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) plays a role in bladder functioning. The prostate epithelium expresses CBS and CSE, but stromal CSE only. In the uterus, up- or downregulation of CBS and CSE varies strongly depending on the female's hormonal cycle or pregnancy. CRITICAL ISSUES There is still the need to better define the male and female's sexual hormonal roles in regulating the H2S pathway, particularly in human pathological conditions. The lack of a correlation between human and animal data should be carefully considered when planning preclinical studies. The unmet need for selective enzymatic inhibitors and the different methodologies for H2S measurements still represent a critical issue in this research field. FUTURE DIRECTIONS It is feasible that the L-cysteine/H2S pathway can represent an alternative therapeutic target in genito-urinary tract disorders. The research should focus on erectile dysfunction and preeclampsia, characterized by vascular defect, as well as on bladder disorders where the urothelium is compromised. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 27, 654-668.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta d'Emmanuele di Villa Bianca
- 1 Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II , Naples, Italy .,2 Interdepartmental Centre for Sexual Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II , Naples, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Fusco
- 2 Interdepartmental Centre for Sexual Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II , Naples, Italy .,3 Department of Neurosciences, Human Reproduction and Odontostomatology, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II , Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mirone
- 2 Interdepartmental Centre for Sexual Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II , Naples, Italy .,3 Department of Neurosciences, Human Reproduction and Odontostomatology, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II , Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cirino
- 1 Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II , Naples, Italy .,2 Interdepartmental Centre for Sexual Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II , Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella Sorrentino
- 1 Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II , Naples, Italy .,2 Interdepartmental Centre for Sexual Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II , Naples, Italy
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Dayar E, Kara E, Yetik-Anacak G, Hocaoglu N, Bozkurt O, Gidener S, Durmus N. Do penile haemodynamics change in the presence of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) donor in metabolic syndrome-induced erectile dysfunction? Andrologia 2017; 50. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- E. Dayar
- Department of Pharmacology; Faculty of Medicine; Dokuz Eylül University; Izmir Turkey
| | - E. Kara
- Department of Pharmacology; Faculty of Medicine; Dokuz Eylül University; Izmir Turkey
| | - G. Yetik-Anacak
- Department of Pharmacology; Faculty of Medicine; Ege University; Izmir Turkey
| | - N. Hocaoglu
- Department of Pharmacology; Faculty of Medicine; Dokuz Eylül University; Izmir Turkey
| | - O. Bozkurt
- Department of Urology; Faculty of Medicine; Dokuz Eylül University; Izmir Turkey
| | - S. Gidener
- Department of Pharmacology; Faculty of Medicine; Dokuz Eylül University; Izmir Turkey
| | - N. Durmus
- Department of Pharmacology; Faculty of Medicine; Dokuz Eylül University; Izmir Turkey
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20
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Ertuna E, Loot AE, Fleming I, Yetik-Anacak G. The role of eNOS on the compensatory regulation of vascular tonus by H 2 S in mouse carotid arteries. Nitric Oxide 2017; 69:45-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2017.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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21
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β 3 adrenergic receptor activation relaxes human corpus cavernosum and penile artery through a hydrogen sulfide/cGMP-dependent mechanism. Pharmacol Res 2017; 124:100-104. [PMID: 28760490 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2017.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Erectile function is a widely accepted indicator of systemic endothelial activity since from a clinical standpoint erectile dysfunction (ED) often precedes cardiovascular events. Recently it has been described a potential role for β3 adrenoceptor in cardiovascular diseases emphasizing a possible development of new drugs. β3 adrenoceptor stimulation relaxes human corpus cavernosum (HCC) strips in cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-dependent and endothelium/nitric oxide (NO)-independent manner. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), along with NO, is another gaseous molecule involved in cardiovascular system and as a consequence also in penile erection. Cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE), the enzymes mainly responsible for H2S biosynthesis, are constitutively expressed in HCC. CSE rather than CBS is more abundant in human penile tissue. Herein we investigated the involvement of H2S pathway in β3 adrenoceptor-induced relaxation in HCC and penile artery. Penile artery expresses both CSE and β3 adrenoceptor. BRL37344, a β3 selective agonist, relaxed HCC strips and penile artery rings and this effect was significantly reduced by CSE inhibition. Incubation of HCC and penile artery homogenate with BRL37344 significantly increased H2S production. This effect was significantly reduced by the inhibition of either CSE or β3 adrenoceptor. Finally, the BRL37344-induced increase in cGMP was reduced by CSE inhibition in both tissues. Thus, BRL37344-induced relaxation in HCC and penile artery occurs in a H2S/cGMP-dependent manner. In conclusion, β3/H2S/cGMP pathway can act as an alternative to NO. Since about 15% of patients do not respond to phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, β3 agonists could represent a therapeutic alternative or a useful adjuvant therapy to treat these patients.
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22
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Di Francesco S, Tenaglia RL. Mediterranean diet and erectile dysfunction: a current perspective. Cent European J Urol 2017; 70:185-187. [PMID: 28721287 PMCID: PMC5510347 DOI: 10.5173/ceju.2017.1356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 04/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In this current perspective we analyzed the role of Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) in sexual function and particularly in erectile dysfunction (ED), according to the latest scientific evidence. MATERIAL AND METHODS We conducted a systematic search of relevant full-length papers identified during the time period from 1 January 2010 to the present. RESULTS Published studies showed that adherence to a MedDiet contributes to preventing ED through an improved lipid and glucose metabolism, increased antioxidant defenses, and increased arginine levels which could raise nitric oxide activity. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the encouragement of a healthy lifestyle, such as MedDiet promotion, could be an attractive dietary approach to prevent ED and preserve sexual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Di Francesco
- G. D'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, Chieti, Italy
| | - Raffaele Lanfranco Tenaglia
- G. D'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, Chieti, Italy
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Castro-Ruiz JE, Rojas-Molina A, Luna-Vázquez FJ, Rivero-Cruz F, García-Gasca T, Ibarra-Alvarado C. Affinin (Spilanthol), Isolated from Heliopsis longipes, Induces Vasodilation via Activation of Gasotransmitters and Prostacyclin Signaling Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E218. [PMID: 28117739 PMCID: PMC5297847 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18010218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Revised: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Heliopsis longipes roots have been widely used in Mexican traditional medicine to relieve pain, mainly, toothaches. Previous studies have shown that affinin, the major alkamide of these roots, induces potent antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the effect of H. longipes root extracts and affinin on the cardiovascular system have not been investigated so far. In the present study, we demonstrated that the dichloromethane and ethanolic extracts of H. longipes roots, and affinin, isolated from these roots, produce a concentration-dependent vasodilation of rat aorta. Affinin-induced vasorelaxation was partly dependent on the presence of endothelium and was significantly blocked in the presence of inhibitors of NO, H₂S, and CO synthesis (NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME), dl-propargylglycine (PAG), and chromium mesoporphyrin (CrMP), respectively); K⁺ channel blockers (glibenclamide (Gli) and tetraethyl ammonium (TEA)), and guanylate cyclase and cyclooxygenase inhibitors (1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ) and indomethacin (INDO), respectively). Our results demonstrate, for the first time, that affinin induces vasodilation by mechanisms that involve gasotransmitters, and prostacyclin signaling pathways. These findings indicate that this natural alkamide has therapeutic potential in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Eduardo Castro-Ruiz
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Campus Juriquilla, 76230 Querétaro, Qro., Mexico.
- Laboratorio de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario, 76010 Querétaro, Qro., Mexico.
| | - Alejandra Rojas-Molina
- Laboratorio de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario, 76010 Querétaro, Qro., Mexico.
| | - Francisco J Luna-Vázquez
- Laboratorio de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario, 76010 Querétaro, Qro., Mexico.
| | - Fausto Rivero-Cruz
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México, D.F., Mexico.
| | - Teresa García-Gasca
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Campus Juriquilla, 76230 Querétaro, Qro., Mexico.
| | - César Ibarra-Alvarado
- Laboratorio de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario, 76010 Querétaro, Qro., Mexico.
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Yetik-Anacak G, Sevin G, Ozzayım O, Dereli MV, Ahmed A. Hydrogen sulfide: A novel mechanism for the vascular protection by resveratrol under oxidative stress in mouse aorta. Vascul Pharmacol 2016; 87:76-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2016.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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25
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Hartle MD, Hansen RJ, Tresca BW, Prakel SS, Zakharov LN, Haley MM, Pluth MD, Johnson DW. A Synthetic Supramolecular Receptor for the Hydrosulfide Anion. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016; 55:11480-4. [PMID: 27510286 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201605757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2 S) has emerged as a crucial biomolecule in physiology and cellular signaling. Key challenges associated with developing new chemical tools for understanding the biological roles of H2 S include developing platforms that enable reversible binding of this important biomolecule. The first synthetic small molecule receptor for the hydrosulfide anion, HS(-) , using only reversible, hydrogen-bonding interactions in a series of bis(ethynylaniline) derivatives, is reported. Binding constants of up to 90 300±8700 m(-1) were obtained in MeCN. The fundamental science of reversible sulfide binding, in this case featuring a key CH⋅⋅⋅S hydrogen bond, will expand the possibility for discovery of sulfide protein targets and molecular recognition agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Hartle
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403-1253, USA
| | - Ryan J Hansen
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403-1253, USA
| | - Blakely W Tresca
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403-1253, USA
| | - Samuel S Prakel
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403-1253, USA
| | - Lev N Zakharov
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403-1253, USA.,CAMCOR-Center for Advanced Materials Characterization in Oregon, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403-1443, USA
| | - Michael M Haley
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403-1253, USA.
| | - Michael D Pluth
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403-1253, USA.
| | - Darren W Johnson
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403-1253, USA.
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Hartle MD, Hansen RJ, Tresca BW, Prakel SS, Zakharov LN, Haley MM, Pluth MD, Johnson DW. A Synthetic Supramolecular Receptor for the Hydrosulfide Anion. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201605757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Hartle
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology University of Oregon Eugene OR 97403-1253 USA
| | - Ryan J. Hansen
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology University of Oregon Eugene OR 97403-1253 USA
| | - Blakely W. Tresca
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology University of Oregon Eugene OR 97403-1253 USA
| | - Samuel S. Prakel
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology University of Oregon Eugene OR 97403-1253 USA
| | - Lev N. Zakharov
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology University of Oregon Eugene OR 97403-1253 USA
- CAMCOR—Center for Advanced Materials Characterization in Oregon University of Oregon Eugene OR 97403-1443 USA
| | - Michael M. Haley
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology University of Oregon Eugene OR 97403-1253 USA
| | - Michael D. Pluth
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology University of Oregon Eugene OR 97403-1253 USA
| | - Darren W. Johnson
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, and Institute of Molecular Biology University of Oregon Eugene OR 97403-1253 USA
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Ruffo A, Capece M, Prezioso D, Romeo G, Illiano E, Romis L, Di Lauro G, Iacono F. Safety and efficacy of low intensity shockwave (LISW) treatment in patients with erectile dysfunction. Int Braz J Urol 2016; 41:967-74. [PMID: 26689523 PMCID: PMC4756974 DOI: 10.1590/s1677-5538.ibju.2014.0386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 04/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary goal in the management strategy of a patient with ED would be to determine its etiology and cure it when possible, and not just to treat the symptoms alone. One of the new therapeutic strategies is the use of low intensity extracorporeal shockwave (LISW) therapy. The mechanism of shockwave therapy is not completely clear. It is suggested that LISW induces neovascularization and improvement of cavernosal arterial flow which can lead to an improvement of erectile function by releasing NO, VEGF and PCNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ruffo
- Department of Urology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - M Capece
- Department of Urology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - D Prezioso
- Department of Urology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - G Romeo
- Department of Urology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - E Illiano
- Department of Urology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - L Romis
- Department of Urology, Hospital Santa Maria delle Grazie, Naples, Italy
| | - G Di Lauro
- Department of Urology, Hospital Santa Maria delle Grazie, Naples, Italy
| | - F Iacono
- Department of Urology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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Papapetropoulos A, Foresti R, Ferdinandy P. Pharmacology of the 'gasotransmitters' NO, CO and H2S: translational opportunities. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 172:1395-6. [PMID: 25891246 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Papapetropoulos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Athens, Athens, Greece; 'George P. Livanos and Marianthi Simou Laboratories', Evangelismos Hospital, 1st Department of Critical Care and Pulmonary Services, University of Athens, Greece
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Gur S, Kadowitz PJ, Sikka SC, Peak TC, Hellstrom WJ. Overview of potential molecular targets for hydrogen sulfide: A new strategy for treating erectile dysfunction. Nitric Oxide 2015; 50:65-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2015.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Yetik-Anacak G, Dereli MV, Sevin G, Ozzayım O, Erac Y, Ahmed A. Resveratrol Stimulates Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Formation to Relax Murine Corpus Cavernosum. J Sex Med 2015; 12:2004-12. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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d’Emmanuele di Villa Bianca R, Mitidieri E, Esposito D, Donnarumm E, Russo A, Fusco F, Ianaro A, Mirone V, Cirino G, Russo G, Sorrentino R. Human Cystathionine-β-Synthase Phosphorylation on Serine227 Modulates Hydrogen Sulfide Production in Human Urothelium. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0136859. [PMID: 26368121 PMCID: PMC4569281 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0136859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Urothelium, the epithelial lining the inner surface of human bladder, plays a key role in bladder physiology and pathology. It responds to chemical, mechanical and thermal stimuli by releasing several factors and mediators. Recently it has been shown that hydrogen sulfide contributes to human bladder homeostasis. Hydrogen sulfide is mainly produced in human bladder by the action of cystathionine-β-synthase. Here, we demonstrate that human cystathionine-β-synthase activity is regulated in a cGMP/PKG-dependent manner through phosphorylation at serine 227. Incubation of human urothelium or T24 cell line with 8-Bromo-cyclic-guanosine monophosphate (8-Br-cGMP) but not dibutyryl-cyclic-adenosine monophosphate (d-cAMP) causes an increase in hydrogen sulfide production. This result is congruous with the finding that PKG is robustly expressed but PKA only weakly present in human urothelium as well as in T24 cells. The cGMP/PKG-dependent phosphorylation elicited by 8-Br-cGMP is selectively reverted by KT5823, a specific PKG inhibitor. Moreover, the silencing of cystathionine-β-synthase in T24 cells leads to a marked decrease in hydrogen sulfide production either in basal condition or following 8-Br-cGMP challenge. In order to identify the phosphorylation site, recombinant mutant proteins of cystathionine-β-synthase in which Ser32, Ser227 or Ser525 was mutated in Ala were generated. The Ser227Ala mutant cystathionine-β-synthase shows a notable reduction in basal biosynthesis of hydrogen sulfide becoming unresponsive to the 8-Br-cGMP challenge. A specific antibody that recognizes the phosphorylated form of cystathionine-β-synthase has been produced and validated by using T24 cells and human urothelium. In conclusion, human cystathionine-β-synthase can be phosphorylated in a PKG-dependent manner at Ser227 leading to an increased catalytic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta d’Emmanuele di Villa Bianca
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49, Naples, Italy
- Interdepartmental Centre for Sexual Medicine, University of Naples, Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Naples, Italy
| | - Emma Mitidieri
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49, Naples, Italy
| | - Davide Esposito
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Naples, Italy
| | - Erminia Donnarumm
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49, Naples, Italy
| | - Annapina Russo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49, Naples, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Fusco
- Interdepartmental Centre for Sexual Medicine, University of Naples, Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Naples, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Human Reproduction and Odontostomatology, University of Naples, Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Ianaro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mirone
- Interdepartmental Centre for Sexual Medicine, University of Naples, Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Naples, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Human Reproduction and Odontostomatology, University of Naples, Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cirino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49, Naples, Italy
- Interdepartmental Centre for Sexual Medicine, University of Naples, Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Naples, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Giulia Russo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella Sorrentino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49, Naples, Italy
- Interdepartmental Centre for Sexual Medicine, University of Naples, Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Naples, Italy
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Abstract
In this chapter the role played by H2S in the physiopathology of urogenital tract revising animal and human data available in the current relevant literature is discussed. H2S pathway has been demonstrated to be involved in the mechanism underlying penile erection in human and experimental animal. Both cystathionine-β synthase (CBS) and cystathionine-γ lyase (CSE) are expressed in the human corpus cavernosum and exogenous H2S relaxes isolated human corpus cavernosum strips in an endothelium-independent manner. Hydrogen sulfide pathway also accounts for the direct vasodilatory effect operated by testosterone on isolated vessels. Convincing evidence suggests that H2S can influence the cGMP pathway by inhibiting the phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE-5) activity. All these findings taken together suggest an important role for the H2S pathway in human corpus cavernosum homeostasis. However, H2S effect is not confined to human corpus cavernosum but also plays an important role in human bladder. Human bladder expresses mainly CBS and generates in vitro detectable amount of H2S. In addition the bladder relaxant effect of the PDE-5 inhibitor sildenafil involves H2S as mediator. In conclusion the H2S pathway is not only involved in penile erection but also plays a role in bladder homeostasis. In addition the finding that it involved in the mechanism of action of PDE-5 inhibitors strongly suggests that modulation of this pathway can represent a therapeutic target for the treatment of erectile dysfunction and bladder diseases.
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