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Pereira DA, Pereira DA, Silveira THR, Calmasini FB, Burnett AL, Costa FF, Silva FH. Heme-induced corpus cavernosum relaxation and its implications for priapism in sickle cell disease: a mechanistic insight. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 38231174 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) experience intravascular hemolysis, leading to elevated plasma heme levels. This phenomenon has been associated with increased priapism in men with SCD. The heme group can be metabolized by heme oxygenase (HO), generating carbon monoxide (CO), which is known to promote smooth muscle relaxation via soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). However, the effects of heme on the relaxation responses of corpus cavernosum (CC) have not been investigated. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the functional and biochemical effects of the heme group on mouse CC smooth muscle in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS Male C57BL/6 mice were used. CC tissues were mounted in organ baths. Measurement of cGMP in mice CC was evaluated. RESULTS The cumulative addition of heme concentrations promoted the relaxation of CC. HO inhibitor (1J, 100 μM) or sGC inhibitor (ODQ, 10 μM) blocked the relaxing effect of the heme group. Pre-incubation of CC with heme (100 μM) enhanced relaxation induced by acetylcholine, sodium nitroprusside, and nitrergic relaxation (electrical field stimulation), which was abolished by 1J or ODQ. The heme group increased the cGMP production in CC, which was abolished by 1J or ODQ. cGMP levels were significantly higher in CC treated with heme, and pre-incubation with compound 1J or ODQ abolished the effect of heme in raising cGMP levels. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The HO-CO-sGC-cGMP pathway appears to play a crucial role in promoting CC relaxation. Our study provides novel insight into the role of group heme in CC relaxation and its potential contribution to priapism in SCD. Heme may serve as a pharmacological target for new therapies to prevent priapism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalila Andrade Pereira
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, São Francisco University Medical School, Bragança Paulista, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Danillo Andrade Pereira
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, São Francisco University Medical School, Bragança Paulista, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Fabiano Beraldi Calmasini
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Arthur L Burnett
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Fábio Henrique Silva
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, São Francisco University Medical School, Bragança Paulista, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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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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Pauwels B, Boydens C, Vanden Daele L, Van de Voorde J. Ruthenium-based nitric oxide-donating and carbon monoxide-donating molecules. J Pharm Pharmacol 2016; 68:293-304. [DOI: 10.1111/jphp.12511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Over the past few years, the use of metallocomplexes for medical purposes has considerably grown. Because of its favourable characteristics, ruthenium has taken a significant place in this expanding field of research. Several ruthenium-containing metal compounds have been developed as delivery agents of physiological important molecules such as nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO).
Key findings
This review focuses on the (vaso)relaxant capacity of ruthenium-based NO-donating and CO-donating molecules in view of their potential usefulness in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and erectile dysfunction.
Summary
Ruthenium seems to be a valuable candidate for the design of NO-donating and CO-donating molecules. To date, ruthenium remains of interest in drug research as the search for new alternatives is still necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Pauwels
- Department of Pharmacology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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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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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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Decaluwé K, Pauwels B, Boydens C, Van de Voorde J. Divergent molecular mechanisms underlay CO- and CORM-2-induced relaxation of corpora cavernosa. J Sex Med 2012; 9:2284-92. [PMID: 22759233 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02831.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Similar to nitric oxide (NO), the principal mediator of penile erection, carbon monoxide (CO) possesses vasodilator capacities. However, whether CO could be a therapeutic target for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) is unexplored. The danger associated with systemic administration of CO has led to the development of CO-releasing molecules (CORMs), releasing CO in a local, safe and controlled way. These CORMs have shown positive outcomes in cardiovascular studies. More knowledge on the (patho)physiological functions of CO in erectile function and the potential therapeutic role of CORMs is required. AIM The present study aims the assessment of the effect of CO and CO donor CORM-2 on the corporal tension and the underlying molecular mechanisms. METHODS Organ bath studies were performed measuring isometric tension on isolated mice corpora cavernosa (CC) strips. Responses to CO (10-300 µmol/L) and CORM-2 (10-100 µmol/L) were measured in the presence/absence of activators/inhibitors of different molecular pathways. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES CO and CORM-2 relax corporal strips concentration dependently, although the molecular mechanisms behind the corporal relaxation seem to differ completely. RESULTS CO induces corporal relaxation by activating soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC), increasing cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) concentrations. The molecular mechanism involved in CORM-2-induced corporal relaxation is not related to sGC activation and remains obscure. CONCLUSIONS Both CO and CORM-2 induce corporal relaxation, although the underlying molecular mechanisms show no resemblance. That CO induces corporal relaxation through a mechanism similar to that of NO could be of importance as it indirectly offers the possibility that endogenous CO might serve as a backup system for insufficient NO availability in cases of ED. Whether CORM-2 possesses the same capacity remains questionable and requires further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Decaluwé
- Department of Pharmacology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Tu YP, Chuang SJ, Chen SC, Liu YH, Chen CF, Hour TC. Simvastatin induces the expression of hemeoxygenase-1 against ischemia-reperfusion injury on the testes in rats. Toxicol Lett 2011; 207:242-50. [PMID: 21968084 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2011.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2011] [Revised: 09/16/2011] [Accepted: 09/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We evaluate the protective role of simvastatin-induced HO-1 in remote preconditioning against testis ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury in vivo. Simvastatin was intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected 24 h before IR injury. Testis was occluded in the right testis for 40 min and followed by 30 min of reperfusion to induce IR injury. Tin protoporphyrin (Snpp), a competitive inhibitor of hemeoxygenase, was i.p. injected 1 h before the IR injury in separate groups of rats. The rat testes were harvested 24 h later. Induction of HO-1 expression by simvastatin was significantly increased at 24 and 48 h. Rats pre-treated with simvastatin showed higher expression of HO-1 protein by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC), and presented lower caspases-3 activity by caspase-3 activity assay. TUNEL staining analysis revealed simvastatin pretreatment significantly reduced IR induced cellular apoptosis. Contrarily, the simvastatin-induced cytoprotective effect was entirely abolished by administrations of Snpp. Further, lower caspase-3 activities were also noted in simvastatin plus Snpp (SS) group than the control plus Snpp (CS) group. After IR injury, eNOS immunoreactivity was markedly increased in the germ cell and Leydig cell of testicular tissues. Pretreatment of simvastatin significantly decreased eNOS immunoreactivity in the germ cell of the tubules in the rat testes. In conclusion, we suggest HO-1 plays a protective role in IR-induced injury in the testes of rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Po Tu
- Department of Urology, Tao-Yuan General Hospital, Department of Health, Taoyuan 330, Taiwan
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Abdel aziz MT, El Asmar MF, Atta HM, Mahfouz S, Fouad HH, Roshdy NK, Rashed LA, Sabry D, Hassouna AA, Taha FM. Efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells in suppression of hepatocarcinorigenesis in rats: possible role of Wnt signaling. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2011; 30:49. [PMID: 21545718 PMCID: PMC3113743 DOI: 10.1186/1756-9966-30-49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2011] [Accepted: 05/05/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background The present study was conducted to evaluate the tumor suppressive effects of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in an experimental hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) model in rats and to investigate the possible role of Wnt signaling in hepato-carcinogenesis. Methods Ninety rats were included in the study and were divided equally into: Control group, rats which received MSCs only, rats which received MSCs vehicle only, HCC group induced by diethylnitroseamine (DENA) and CCl4, rats which received MSCs after HCC induction, rats which received MSCs before HCC induction. Histopathological examination and gene expression of Wnt signaling target genes by real time, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in rat liver tissue, in addition to serum levels of ALT, AST and alpha fetoprotein were performed in all groups. Results Histopathological examination of liver tissue from animals which received DENA-CCl4 only, revealed the presence of anaplastic carcinoma cells and macro-regenerative nodules type II with foci of large and small cell dysplasia. Administration of MSCs into rats after induction of experimental HCC improved the histopathological picture which showed minimal liver cell damage, reversible changes, areas of cell drop out filled with stem cells. Gene expression in rat liver tissue demonstrated that MSCs downregulated β-catenin, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cyclin D and survivin genes expression in liver tissues after HCC induction. Amelioration of the liver status after administration of MSCs has been inferred by the significant decrease of ALT, AST and Alpha fetoprotein serum levels. Administration of MSCs before HCC induction did not show any tumor suppressive or protective effect. Conclusions Administration of MSCs in chemically induced HCC has tumor suppressive effects as evidenced by down regulation of Wnt signaling target genes concerned with antiapoptosis, mitogenesis, cell proliferation and cell cycle regulation, with subsequent amelioration of liver histopathological picture and liver function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed T Abdel aziz
- Unit of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Burnett AL, Goldstein I, Andersson KE, Argiolas A, Christ G, Park K, Xin ZC. Future sexual medicine physiological treatment targets. J Sex Med 2011; 7:3269-304. [PMID: 21029380 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.02025.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual function in men and women incorporates physiologic processes and regulation of the central and peripheral nervous systems, the vascular system, and the endocrine system. There is need for state-of-the-art information as there is an evolving research understanding of the underlying molecular biological factors and mechanisms governing sexual physiologic functions. AIM To develop an evidence-based, state-of-the-art consensus report on the current knowledge of the major cellular and molecular targets of biologic systems responsible for sexual physiologic function. METHODS State-of-the-art knowledge representing the opinions of seven experts from four countries was developed in a consensus process over a 2-year period. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Expert opinion was based on the grading of evidence-based medical literature, widespread internal committee discussion, public presentation, and debate. RESULTS Scientific investigation in this field is needed to increase knowledge and foster development of the future line of treatments for all forms of biological-based sexual dysfunction. This article addresses the current knowledge of the major cellular and molecular targets of biological systems responsible for sexual physiologic function. Future treatment targets include growth factor therapy, gene therapy, stem and cell-based therapies, and regenerative medicine. CONCLUSIONS Scientific discovery is critically important for developing new and increasingly effective treatments in sexual medicine. Broad physiologic directions should be vigorously explored and considered for future management of sexual disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur L Burnett
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Abdel Aziz MT, El Asmer MF, Rezq A, Kumosani TA, Mostafa S, Mostafa T, Atta H, Abdel Aziz Wassef M, Fouad HH, Rashed L, Sabry D, Hassouna AA, Senbel A, Abdel Aziz A. Novel water-soluble curcumin derivative mediating erectile signaling. J Sex Med 2009; 7:2714-22. [PMID: 21711478 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2009.01543.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Curcumin is an inducer of heme oxygenase enzyme-1 (HO-1) that is involved in erectile signaling via elevating cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)levels. AIM To assess the effect of oral administration of a water-soluble long-acting curcumin derivative on erectile signaling. METHODS Two hundred and thirty six male white albino rats were divided into four groups; group 1 (N = 20) includes control. Group 2 (N = 72) was equally divided into four subgroups; subgroup 1 received pure curcumin (10 mg/kg), subgroup 2 received the long-acting curcumin derivative (2 mg/kg), subgroup 3 received the long-acting curcumin derivative (10 mg/kg), and subgroup 4 received sildenafil (4 mg/kg). Subgroups were sacrificed after the first, second, and third hour. Group 3 (N = 72) was equally divided into the same four subgroups already mentioned and were sacrificed after 24 hours, 48 hours, and 1 week. Group 4 (N = 72) was subjected to intracavernosal pressure (ICP) measurements 1 hour following oral administration of the same previous doses in the same rat subgroups. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Cavernous tissue HO enzyme activity, cGMP, and ICP. RESULTS In group 2, there was a significant progressive maintained elevation of HO activity and cGMP tissue levels starting from the first hour in subgroups 3 and 4, whereas, the rise in HO activity and cGMP started from second hour regarding the other rat subgroups. Sildenafil effect decreased after 3 hours. In group 3, there was a significant maintained elevation of HO activity and cGMP tissue levels extended to 1 week as compared to controls for all rat subgroups that received both forms of curcumin. In group 4, long-acting curcumin derivative exhibited more significant potentiation of intracavernosal pressure as compared to control and to the pure curcumin. CONCLUSION Water-soluble long-acting curcumin derivative could mediate erectile function via upregulating cavernous tissue cGMP.
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Abdel Aziz MT, El Asmer MF, Mostafa T, Atta H, Mahfouz S, Fouad H, Rashed L, Sabry D, Hassouna A, Abdel Aziz AT, Senbel A, Demery A. Effects of losartan, HO-1 inducers or HO-1 inhibitors on erectile signaling in diabetic rats. J Sex Med 2009; 6:3254-64. [PMID: 19804535 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2009.01517.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Activation of the renin-angiotensin system which is common in diabetes mellitus might affect heme oxygenase (HO-1) gene expression. AIM Assessment of the effects of administration of angiotensin II (Ang II) receptor antagonist (losartan) with HO-1 inducer or inhibitor on erectile signaling in diabetic rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventy male rats were divided equally into seven groups; healthy controls, streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, rats on citrate buffer, diabetic rats on losartan, diabetic rats on HO-1 inducer (cobalt protoporphyrin [CoPP]), diabetic rats on losartan and CoPP, and diabetic rats on losartan and HO-1 inhibitor (stannus mesoporphyrin [SnMP]). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE HO enzyme activity, HO-1 gene expression, cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) assay, intracavernosal pressure (ICP), and cavernous tissue sinusoids surface area. RESULTS HO-1 gene expression, HO enzymatic activity, and cGMP were significantly decreased in the cavernous tissue of diabetic rats. These parameters were significantly elevated with the use of CoPP that restored the normal control levels of HO enzyme activity. Administration of losartan exhibited a significant enhancing effect on these parameters compared with the diabetic group, but not restored to the control levels, whereas administration of CoPP combined with losartan led to the restoration of their normal levels. ICP demonstrated significant decline in diabetic rats. The use of CoPP and/or losartan led to its significant improvement compared with diabetic rats. Administration of either losartan and/or CoPP led to a significant increase in the cavernous sinusoids surface area of diabetic rats. Administration of losartan with SnMP significantly decreased the enhancing effect of losartan on the studied parameters. CONCLUSION The decline in erectile function in diabetes mellitus could be attributed to the downregulation of HO-1 gene expression. HO-1 induction added to Ang II receptor antagonist could improve erectile function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Talaat Abdel Aziz
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Medical Biochemistry, Unit of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cairo, Egypt
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Abdel Aziz MT, Mostafa T, Atta H, Wassef MA, Fouad HH, Rashed LA, Sabry D. Putative role of carbon monoxide signaling pathway in penile erectile function. J Sex Med 2009; 6:49-60. [PMID: 19170836 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2008.01050.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Erectile response depends on nitric oxide (NO) generated by NO synthase (NOS) enzyme of the nerves and vascular endothelium in the cavernous tissue. NO activates soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC), leading to the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP activates cGMP-dependent protein kinase that activates Ca(2+)/ATPase pump that activates Ca(2+)/K efflux pump extruding Ca(2+) across the plasma membrane with consequent smooth muscle cell relaxation. A role similar to that of NOS/NO signaling has been postulated for carbon monoxide (CO) produced in mammals from heme catabolism by heme oxygenase (HO) enzyme. AIM To assess CO signaling pathway for erectile function by reviewing published studies. METHODS A systematic review of published studies on this affair based on Pubmed and Medical Subject Heading databases, with search for all concerned articles. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Documentation of positive as well as negative criteria of CO/HO signaling focused on penile tissue. RESULTS The concept that HO-derived CO could play a role in mediating erectile function acting in synergism with, or as a potentiator for, NOS/NO signaling pathway is gaining momentum. CO/HO signaling pathway has been shown to partially mediate the actions of oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. In addition, it was shown that the use of CO releasing molecules potentiated cavernous cGMP levels. However, increased CO production or release was reported to be associated, in some studies, with vasoconstriction. CONCLUSION This review sheds a light on the significance of cavernous tissue CO signaling pathway that may pave the way for creation of therapeutic modalities based on this pathway.
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Abdel Aziz MT, Mostafa T, Atta H, Mahfouz S, Wassef M, Fouad H, Kamel M, Rashed L, Sabry D, Mouhamed O. Effect of HO-1 cDNA-liposome complex transfer on erectile signalling of aged rats. Andrologia 2009; 41:176-83. [PMID: 19400852 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2008.00911.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This work aimed to assess the efficacy of haeme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) cDNA-liposome complex transfer as a mediator of erectile signalling in aged rats. One hundred and fifty aged white albino rats were equally divided into five groups: controls, rats receiving lipofectamine, rats receiving intracorporeal HO-1 cDNA-lipsome complex, rats receiving HO-1 cDNA-liposome complex plus nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, and rats receiving HO-1 cDNA-liposome complex plus HO inhibitor. Six rats were killed from each group after 12, 24 and 48 h, and after1 and 2 weeks. In dissected cavernous tissues, the following were assessed: HO-1 gene expression, Western blot for HO-1, HO enzyme activity, cGMP and histopathology. The results showed that HO-1 cDNA-liposome complex transfer led to a significant increase in cavernous tissue HO-1 protein, HO-1 gene expression, HO enzyme activity and cGMP up to 1 week. NOS inhibition exhibited no effect on HO-1 gene enhancement of cavernous tissue HO enzyme activity or cGMP, whereas inhibition of HO significantly decreased these parameters. Histopathology of cavernous tissue demonstrated a significant dilatation of helicine arteries in HO-1 cDNA-liposome complex treated group after 48 h compared with the controls. It is concluded that HO-1 cDNA-liposome complex transfer augments cavernous tissue cGMP with subsequent sinusoidal relaxation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Abdel Aziz
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Morelli A, Filippi S, Sandner P, Fibbi B, Chavalmane AK, Silvestrini E, Sarchielli E, Vignozzi L, Gacci M, Carini M, Vannelli GB, Maggi M. Vardenafil modulates bladder contractility through cGMP-mediated inhibition of RhoA/Rho kinase signaling pathway in spontaneously hypertensive rats. J Sex Med 2009; 6:1594-1608. [PMID: 19473460 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2009.01249.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), the most widely used drugs for erectile dysfunction, could also improve lower urinary tract symptoms, essentially due to overactive bladder (OAB), a condition hypothesized to be a result of an increased RhoA/Rho-kinase (ROCK) signaling. Phosphorylation/inactivation of RhoA by cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-dependent protein kinase (PKG) activity has been described in vascular smooth muscle. AIM The aim of this paper was to investigate whether vardenafil-induced cGMP accumulation reduces RhoA/ROCK signaling in bladder. METHODS Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), a strain genetically prone to develop OAB, were treated with vardenafil (10 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks. Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) were used as control. In vitro experiments were performed in human bladder smooth muscle cells (hBCs). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Urodynamic parameters were registered in vivo in anesthetized WKY and SHRs. RhoA/ROCK activity in bladder was evaluated by molecular and functional studies in tissues and cells. RESULTS The intercontraction interval and bladder capacity, and were decreased in SHRs and restored by vardenafil. The in vitro relaxant effect of the ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 was higher in bladder strips from SHR than from WKY and reduced by vardenafil. Nomega-nitro-L-arginine-methyl-ester (a NO-synthase inhibitor, 40 mg/kg/day during the last week of the 2-week treatment with vardenafil) partially antagonized vardenafil effect on Y-27632 responsiveness. Vardenafil prevented RhoA membrane translocation/activation, decreased ROCK activity, and increased cGMP levels in vivo (rat) and in vitro (hBCs). Exposing hBCs to vardenafil increased Ser(188) RhoA phosphorylation, to the same extent as the PDE5-insensitive PKG agonist Sp-8-Br-PET-cGMP. Moreover, vardenafil inhibited several RhoA-dependent functions in hBCs, including smooth muscle gene transcription and endothelin-1-induced migration. These effects were reverted by the PKG inhibitor KT 5823, further suggesting a cGMP/PKG-dependency. In hBCs, vardenafil was active in the low nanomolar range. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study demonstrating that the effect of vardenafil on OAB could be partially determined by a cGMP-dependent RhoA/ROCK signaling inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Morelli
- Department of Clinical Physiopathology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sandra Filippi
- Department of Clinical Physiopathology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Benedetta Fibbi
- Department of Clinical Physiopathology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Silvestrini
- Department of Clinical Physiopathology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Erica Sarchielli
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Forensic Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Department of Clinical Physiopathology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mauro Gacci
- Department of Urology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Carini
- Department of Urology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriella B Vannelli
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Forensic Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Department of Clinical Physiopathology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy;.
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Shamloul R. REVIEWS: The Potential Role of the Heme Oxygenase/Carbon Monoxide System in Male Sexual Dysfunctions. J Sex Med 2009; 6:324-33. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2008.01068.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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