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Phytomedicinal therapeutics for male infertility: critical insights and scientific updates. J Nat Med 2022; 76:546-573. [PMID: 35377028 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-022-01619-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a significant cause of anxiety, depression, and social stigma among couples and families. In such cases, male reproductive factors contribute widely to the extent of 20-70%. Male infertility is a multifactorial disease with several complications contributing to its diagnosis. Although its management encompasses both modern and traditional medicine arenas, the first line of treatment, adopted by most males, focuses on the reasonably successful medicinal plant-based conventional therapies. Phyto-therapeutics, which relies on active ingredients from traditionally known herbs, influences sexual behavior and male fertility factors. The potency of these phyto-actives depends on their preparation methods and forms of consumption, including decoctions, extracts, semi-purified compounds, etc., as inferred from in vitro and in vivo (laboratory animal models and human) studies. The mechanisms of action therein involve the testosterone pathway for stimulation of spermatogenesis, reduction of oxidative stress, inhibition of inflammation, activation of signaling pathways in the testes [extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK)/protein kinase B(PKB)/transformation of growth factor-beta 1(TGF-β1)/nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells NF-kB signaling pathways] and mediation of sexual behavior. This review critically focuses on the medicinal plants and their potent actives, along with the biochemical and molecular mechanisms that modulate vital pathways associated with the successful management of male infertility. Such intrinsic knowledge will significantly further studies on medicinal plants that improve male reproductive health.
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Semaida AI, El-Khashab MA, Saber AA, Hassan AI, Elfouly SA. Effects of Sargassum virgatum extracts on the testicular measurements, genomic DNA and antioxidant enzymes in irradiated rats. Int J Radiat Biol 2021; 98:191-204. [PMID: 34694945 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2022.1998702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are primarily responsible for the development of male infertility after exposure to γ-irradiation. The present work aimed to assess the ameliorative and therapeutic roles of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the edible seaweed Sargassum virgatum (S. virgatum) on spermatogenesis and infertility in γ-irradiated Wistar rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Induction of infertility was performed by exposing the rats to 137Cs-gamma rays, using a single dose of 3.5 Gy. γ-irradiated rats were given the S. virgatum ethanolic (S. virgatum-EtOH) and aqueous extracts intraperitoneally on a daily base for two consecutive weeks at doses of 100 and 400 mg/kg body weight (b.wt.) for each seaweed extract. Morphometric data of the testes, semen quality indices, antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fragmentation were assessed. The results obtained were taken during two-time intervals of 15 and 60 days from the commencement of the algal treatments. In vitro antioxidant assays and polyphenolic compounds of S. virgatum were characterized. RESULTS Significant negative changes in the semen quality and morphometric data of the testes, as well as remarkable DNA fragmentation, were detected in the irradiated rats compared to the control. The levels of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH, and GPx) were also significantly diminished. Nonetheless, treatments of γ-irradiated rats with the S. virgatum-EtOH and aqueous extracts significantly improved the above-mentioned enzymes, in addition to noteworthy amendments in the dimensions of the testes, the semen quality, as well as the DNA structure. CONCLUSIONS The ameliorative potency of S. virgatum to cure γ-irradiation-induced male infertility, particularly 400 mg/kg ethanolic extract for 60 days, is the result of the consistent therapeutic interventions of its potent antioxidant and anti-apoptotic polyphenols, particularly protocatechuic, p-hydroxybenzoic, rosmarinic, chlorogenic, cinnamic and gentisic acids, as well as the flavonoids catechin, hesperidin, rutin and quercetin. Besides its high-value nutraceutical importance, S. virgatum could be a natural candidate for developing well-accepted radioprotectant products capable of treating γ-irradiation-induced male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed I Semaida
- Department of Animal Production (Animal Physiology), Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
| | - Mona A El-Khashab
- Department of Animal Production (Animal Physiology), Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
| | - Abdullah A Saber
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amal I Hassan
- Department of Radioisotopes, Nuclear Research Centre, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Shady A Elfouly
- Department of Radioisotopes, Nuclear Research Centre, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
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Jannatifar R, Cheraghi E, Nasr-Esfahani MH, Piroozmanesh H. Association of heat shock protein A2 expression and sperm quality after N-acetyl-cysteine supplementation in astheno-terato-zoospermic infertile men. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14024. [PMID: 33661545 DOI: 10.1111/and.14024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In infertile men, reduced expression of heat shock protein A2 (HSPA2) is related to reduced sperm quality and function. The present study has aimed to investigate the effects of N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) supplementation on expression of heat shock protein A2 (HSPA2). In this study in continuation of previous study, semen samples from 50 astheno-terato-zoospermic men who have received NAC (600 mg/day) orally for three months were evaluated for expression HSPA2 using RT-PCR, and Western blot analysis. In addition, semen samples of these individuals were assessed for sperm parameters, DNA fragmentation (TUNEL), protamine deficiency (CMA3), lipid peroxidation index (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TCA). All assessment was carried out before and after NAC treatment. In addition to improved sperm parameters and aforementioned functional parameters, the presented results revealed the significant increase in relative expression levels of HSPA2 was obtained after using NAC treatment (p < .05). Correlation analysis also demonstrated that HSPA2 expression is significantly related to most of the assessed parameters. NAC may directly or indecently impose its beneficial effect through increased expression of HSPA2, which plays a potential role in proper folding of element needed to counteract stress condition in infertile individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahil Jannatifar
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Academic Center for Education Culture and Research (ACECR), Qom, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Cheraghi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Qom, Qom, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hamid Piroozmanesh
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Academic Center for Education Culture and Research (ACECR), Qom, Iran
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Choi SW, Jeon SH, Kwon EB, Zhu GQ, Lee KW, Choi JB, Jeong HC, Kim KS, Bae SR, Bae WJ, Kim SJ, Cho HJ, Ha US, Hong SH, Hwang SY, Kim SW. Effect of Korean Herbal Formula (Modified Ojayeonjonghwan) on Androgen Receptor Expression in an Aging Rat Model of Late Onset Hypogonadism. World J Mens Health 2019; 37:105-112. [PMID: 30584994 PMCID: PMC6305862 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.180051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Revised: 08/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Testosterone replacement therapy is an effective treatment for late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) despite a few contraindications and side-effects. The aim of this study was to determine whether modified Ojayeonjonghwan (KH-204, Korean herbal formula) improved LOH. KH-204 is a strong antioxidant herbal formula. We evaluated the effect of Korean herbal prescription on androgen receptor (AR) expression in an aged rat model of LOH. Materials and Methods Eighteen-month-old rats were used as aged LOH rat models. Eighteen Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three equal groups of six animals each and treated with one of the following: 1) normal control group (oral administration with distilled water, n=6), 2) KH-204 200 group (oral administration with 200 mg/kg of KH-204, n=6), and 3) KH-204 400 group (oral administration with 400 mg/kg of KH-204, n=6). After four weeks of treatment (once daily, distilled water or KH-204), serum testosterone levels, changes in testicular and epididymal weight, Western blotting analysis of AR expression and measurement of oxidative stress were examined. Results Treatment with the herbal formulation KH-204 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg (1) increased the weights of testis and epididymis; (2) increased the level of serum testosterone; (3) increased the level of superoxide dismutase and reduced the level of 8-hydroxy-20-deoxyguanosine; and (4) upregulated AR expression in testicular tissue. Conclusions KH-204 might be an effective alternative for LOH. It improves antioxidant mechanisms and increases testicular AR expression without side-effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sae Woong Choi
- Department of Urology, Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung Hwan Jeon
- Department of Urology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Bi Kwon
- Department of Urology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Guan Qun Zhu
- Department of Urology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyu Won Lee
- Department of Urology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Bong Choi
- Department of Urology, Bucheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Cheol Jeong
- Department of Urology, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kang Sup Kim
- Department of Urology, Incheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Rak Bae
- Department of Urology, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woong Jin Bae
- Department of Urology, Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su Jin Kim
- Department of Urology, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yeonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Hyuk Jin Cho
- Department of Urology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - U Syn Ha
- Department of Urology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Hoo Hong
- Department of Urology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Sae Woong Kim
- Department of Urology, Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
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Tekayev M, Bostancieri N, Saadat KASM, Turker M, Yuncu M, Ulusal H, Cicek H, Arman K. Effects of Moringa oleifera Lam Extract (MOLE) in the heat shock protein 70 expression and germ cell apoptosis on experimentally induced cryptorchid testes of rats. Gene 2018; 688:140-150. [PMID: 30529510 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.11.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Moringa oleifera (Moringaceae) is a plant known for having high antioxidant potency, anticancer, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective etc. and many more activities. Besides these, Moringaceae has the potential for attenuating the male sexual dysfunction. Reactive oxygen species/ROS were increased in cryptorchidism and therefore cause infertility by damaging sperm DNA and germ cell apoptosis. There was an increase in heat shock proteins (HSP) in cells, which is affected by heat shock. In the present study, the antioxidant effects of two different doses of M. oleifera Lam Extract (MOLE) on experimentally induced cryptorchid testes of rats was investigated. Forty two male rats (16 days old) were divided into four groups: a normal control group, a cryptorchidism-induced control group and two cryptorchidism-induced groups treated orally with either 400 or 800 mg/kg MOLE for 2 weeks. Our study showed that there were ruptures from interstitial spaces, separation of the germ cells from basal membrane, falling of the germ cells into the lumen, perivascular fibrosis, oedema, increased level of HSP70, apoptosis, malondialdehyde (MDA) and decrease in the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD) after the cryptorchidism. We found that pathological damages, oxidative stress, expression of the HSP70 and germ cell apoptosis were decreased in treated groups with MOLE. In brief, we can say that aqueous extract of M. oleifera reduces the oxidative stress in a unilateral cryptorchidism induced rats, and it might attenuate histopathological damages, HSP expression and germ cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammetnur Tekayev
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Gaziantep, Gaziantep 27310, Turkey.
| | - Nuray Bostancieri
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Gaziantep, Gaziantep 27310, Turkey
| | - Khandakar A S M Saadat
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Gaziantep, Gaziantep 27310, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Turker
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Gaziantep, Gaziantep 27310, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Yuncu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Gaziantep, Gaziantep 27310, Turkey
| | - Hasan Ulusal
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Gaziantep, Gaziantep 27310, Turkey
| | - Hulya Cicek
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Gaziantep, Gaziantep 27310, Turkey
| | - Kaifee Arman
- Institut de recherches cliniques de Montreal (IRCM), Montreal, QC, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Jung JW, Jeon SH, Bae WJ, Kim SJ, Chung MS, Yoon BI, Choi SW, Ha US, Hwang SY, Kim SW. Suppression of Oxidative Stress of Modified Gongjin-Dan (WSY-1075) in Detrusor Underactivity Rat Model Bladder Outlet Induced by Obstruction. Chin J Integr Med 2017; 24:670-675. [PMID: 29264842 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-017-2970-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the anti-oxidative stress and preventive effect of modified Gongjin-dan (WSY-1075) in a detrusor underactivity rat model. METHODS Rats were randomly allocated to three groups: shamoperated (control), bladder outlet obstruction-induced detrusor underactivity (BOO-DU), and BOO-DU with WSY-1075 (WSY) groups. WSY-1075 was orally administrated to rats 200 mg daily for 2 weeks prior to the operation and 4 weeks after the operation. Bladder outlet obstruction was surgically induced in rats by ligation around the urethra avoiding total obstruction. Cystometrography was conducted on rats in each group for examination of bladders. RESULTS Compared with the control group, bladder outlet obstruction led to a significant increase in oxidative stress with consequent changes to molecular composition, and decrease in maximal detrusor pressure (P<0.05). WSY-1075 treatment significantly suppressed oxidative stress and prevented degenerative and dysfunctional changes in bladder, as compared with BOO-DU group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION WSY-1075 had beneficial effect on prevention of BOO-DU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Woo Jung
- Department of Urology, International St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea.,Institute for Bio-Medical Convergence, College of Medicine, Catholic Kwandong University, Gangneungsi, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hwan Jeon
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Woong Jin Bae
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Jin Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mun Su Chung
- Department of Urology, International St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Il Yoon
- Department of Urology, International St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sae Woong Choi
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - U Syn Ha
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Sae Woong Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Park HJ, Koo YK, Park MJ, Hwang YK, Hwang SY, Park NC. Restoration of Spermatogenesis Using a New Combined Herbal Formula of Epimedium koreanum Nakai and Angelica gigas Nakai in an Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone Agonist-Induced Rat Model of Male Infertility. World J Mens Health 2017; 35:170-177. [PMID: 29076302 PMCID: PMC5746488 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.17031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 08/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We investigated the protective effect of a mixture of 2 herbal extracts, KH-465, which consisted of Epimedium koreanum Nakai and Angelica gigas Nakai, on spermatogenesis in a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist-induced rat model of male infertility. Materials and Methods Seventy-five 12-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 5 groups, containing 15 rats each: a normal control group that received no treatment and 4 experimental groups (I, II, III, and IV) in which an LHRH agonist was administered for 4 weeks to induce spermatogenic failure. Group I received distilled water, and groups II, III, and IV received 200 mg/kg/day of KH-465, 400 mg/kg/day KH-465, and depo-testosterone for 4 weeks, respectively. Weight changes of the testis and epididymis, sperm count motility, and levels of testosterone (T), free T, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) were estimated. Results Body, testis, and epididymis weight showed no significant differences among the control and experimental groups. Treatment with KH-465 increased the sperm count and motility. Serum hormone levels of T, free T, and FSH were not significantly different in the experimental groups, while the LH level was higher than in the LHRH agonist-induced control group, but not to a significant extent. Levels of SOD were higher and 8-OHdG were lower in the groups that received KH-465 than in the LHRH agonist-induced control group. Conclusions Our results suggest that KH-465 increased sperm production via reducing oxidative stress and had a positive effect in a male infertility model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jun Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea.,Biomedical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | | | - Min Jung Park
- KEMIMEDI, Seoul, Korea.,The Korea Institute for Public Sperm Bank, Busan, Korea
| | | | | | - Nam Cheol Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea.,Biomedical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea.,The Korea Institute for Public Sperm Bank, Busan, Korea.
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Dou X, Gao J, Gao P, Tang D, Peng D, Mao J, Huang Z, Chen P, Chen H, Ke S, Liang C, Zhang X. Association between RNA-binding protein Ptbp2 and germ cell injury in an experimentally-induced unilateral cryptorchidism murine model. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186654. [PMID: 29045475 PMCID: PMC5646856 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA binding protein polypyrimidine tract binding protein 2 (Ptbp2) as a key alternative splicing regulator for male germ cell development is well established. However, its expression levels and role in cryptorchidism testes tissues has not been explored. Additionally, the molecular mechanism of heat stress impacts the correct proliferation and differentiation of germ cells is unclear. To investigate whether changes in Ptbp2 expression are correlated with heat stress-induced germ cell injury in testicular tissue, we used a murine model of intraperitoneal cryptorchidism with surgical operation. Here we present compelling evidence that germ cells are severely damaged in mice with unilateral cryptorchidism, with non-obstructive azoospermia. And the Ptbp2 and Pgk2 mRNA levels were significantly decreased in parallel, leading us to conclude that the negative correlation between Ptbp2 levels and germ cell injury in unilateral cryptorchidism murine model. We hypothesize that Ptbp2 is susceptible to heat stress and its disruption has resulted in stability decline of germ cell transcripts Pgk2 mRNA, which consequently lead to germ cell injury in cryptorchidism testes. Thus, we confirm that Ptbp2 is an essential factor in heat stress-induced sperm cell injury and non-obstructive azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianming Dou
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jingjing Gao
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Pan Gao
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Dongdong Tang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Dangwei Peng
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jun Mao
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhenyu Huang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - He Chen
- Department of Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shengwei Ke
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Chaozhao Liang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiansheng Zhang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- * E-mail:
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Antioxidant and Antifibrotic Effect of a Herbal Formulation In Vitro and in the Experimental Andropause via Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2017; 2017:6024839. [PMID: 29075365 PMCID: PMC5623782 DOI: 10.1155/2017/6024839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The Korean herbal formulation Ojayeonjonghwan is used for improving late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) symptoms such as erectile dysfunction (ED). A previous research suggested that a modified Ojayeonjonghwan (KH-204) could be used as an alternative to the treatment for ED. The pharmacological effects were examined in different conditions, including in vitro and in vivo. We measured the survival rate of TM3 Leydig cells under the oxidative stress condition. The s.c. injection of leuprorelin was used to induce androgen deprivation. We measured serum testosterone levels, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. The results of the treatment by KH-204 (1) preserved TM3 cells from oxidative stress by improving the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1); (2) lowered the expression of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) 1/SMAD; (3) increased the average of serum testosterone in androgen-deprived male rats; (4) kept the activation of spermatogenesis; (5) upgraded the contents of 8-hydroxy-20-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and degraded the contents of superoxide dismutase (SOD); and (6) reduced apoptosis. We studied that KH-204 improved testicular dysfunction in LOH. It is likely, at least in part, to degrade oxidative stress through the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. These findings may offer credible evidences for the use of new alternative therapies to treat LOH.
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Jang H, Bae WJ, Kim SJ, Cho HJ, Yuk SM, Han DS, Youn CS, Kwon EB, Hwang SY, Kim SW. The herbal formula KH-204 is protective against erectile dysfunction by minimizing oxidative stress and improving lipid profiles in a rat model of erectile dysfunction induced by hypercholesterolaemia. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 17:129. [PMID: 28235412 PMCID: PMC5324223 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-017-1588-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background Hypercholesterolaemia (HC) is a major risk factor for ischemic heart disease and is also known to be a risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). ED caused by HC is thought to be related to HC-induced oxidative stress damage in the vascular endothelium and erectile tissue. KH-204 is an herbal formula with a strong antioxidant effect. We evaluated the effects of KH-204 on erectile function in a rat model of HC-induced ED. Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats (6 weeks old) were divided into normal control, high-fat and cholesterol diet (HFC), and HFC with KH-204 treatment (HFC + KH) groups (n = 12 each). Normal control group rats were fed normal chow diet. HFC and HFC + KH group rats were fed high-fat and cholesterol diets and treated with or without daily oral doses of KH-204 for 12 weeks. Subsequently, intracavernous pressure (ICP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were measured, and lipid profiles, expression of endothelial (eNOS) and neuronal (nNOS) nitric oxide synthase, oxidative stress (8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine), and ratio of smooth muscle cells and collagen fibres were evaluated in the serum and corpora tissue. Results Compared to the HFC group, the HFC + KH group showed statistically significant increases in peak ICP and ICP/MAP ratio, expression of eNOS and nNOS, and ratio of smooth muscle cells and collagen fibres (p < 0.05). The HFC + KH group also showed statistically significant decreases in oxidative stress (p < 0.05). Further the lipid profiles of this group were ameliorated compared to those of the HFC group (p < 0.05). Conclusions The current study shows that the antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects of KH-204 are effective in ameliorating ED by restoring endothelial dysfunction and suggests that KH-204 may be a potential therapeutic agent for ED by correcting the fundamental cause of ED.
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Moon HW, Park JW, Lee KW, Jeong HC, Choi JB, Choi SW, Bae WJ, Cho HJ, Ha US, Hong SH, Geum JH, Hong SB, Kim SW. Administration of Goji (Lycium chinense Mill.) Extracts Improves Erectile Function in Old Aged Rat Model. World J Mens Health 2016; 35:43-50. [PMID: 28064475 PMCID: PMC5419117 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.2017.35.1.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study investigated the effect of goji (Lycium chinense Mill.) on erectile dysfunction in old-aged rats. Materials and Methods Twenty-four 18-month-old male Sprague-Dawley rats (defined as old-aged rats) were used. Treatment groups contained eight rats each: a control group, goji extract of 150 mg/kg/day group, and goji extract of 300 mg/kg/day group. Treatment was by orogastric tube once daily for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks of treatment, testes weight, serum testosterone, superoxide dismutase, nitric oxide (NO)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-related parameters, intracavernous pressure/mean arterial pressure, and histological changes were examined. Results Treatments with goji extracts increased serum testosterone level, increased the expression of endothelial NO synthase, neuronal NO synthase, and cGMP, improved the oxidative stress marker, and decreased corporal fibrosis. Conclusions Our results indicate that goji extract may have a positive effect on erectile dysfunction via its antioxidant effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyong Woo Moon
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Woo Park
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyu Won Lee
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Cheol Jeong
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Bong Choi
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sae Woong Choi
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woong Jin Bae
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyuk Jin Cho
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - U Syn Ha
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Hoo Hong
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | | | | | - Sae Woong Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
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Kim WH, Bae WJ, Park JW, Choi JB, Kim SJ, Cho HJ, Ha US, Hong SH, Lee JY, Hwang SY, Kim SW. Development of an Improved Animal Model of Overactive Bladder: Transperineal Ligation versus Transperitoneal Ligation in Male Rats. World J Mens Health 2016; 34:137-44. [PMID: 27574597 PMCID: PMC4999487 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.2016.34.2.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Revised: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We compared a transperineal ligation model and a transperitoneal ligation model in male rats to determine which animal model of overactive bladder (OAB) was more useful based on cystometrography, estimations of oxidative stress, and measurements of pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Materials and Methods Male rats were randomly divided into three groups (n=15 in each): the control group, the transperineal ligation group, and the transperitoneal ligation group. Four weeks after the ligation procedure, cystometrography was performed and oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, and histologic changes were evaluated. Oxidative stress was assessed by measuring 8-hydroxy-20-deoxyguanosine and superoxide dismutase, and pro-inflammatory cytokine activity was investigated by measuring levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α. Results The transperineal model led to results similar to those observed for the transperitoneal model, namely (1) increased voiding frequency and reductions in the non-voiding contraction interval and the maximal vesical pressure, (2) increased levels of oxidative stress markers, (3) increased pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, and (4) fibrotic changes in the bladder tissue. Conclusions We suggest that the transperineal procedure can be used as an alternative OAB model in male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo Hyun Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woong Jin Bae
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.; Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Woo Park
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Bong Choi
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su Jin Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyuk Jin Cho
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - U Syn Ha
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Hoo Hong
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Youl Lee
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Sae Woong Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.; Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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13
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Bae WJ, Ha US, Choi JB, Kim KS, Kim SJ, Cho HJ, Hong SH, Lee JY, Wang Z, Hwang SY, Kim SW. Protective Effect of Decursin Extracted from Angelica gigas in Male Infertility via Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2016; 2016:5901098. [PMID: 27034737 PMCID: PMC4807069 DOI: 10.1155/2016/5901098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Revised: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Higher testicular temperature results in altered spermatogenesis due to heat-related oxidative stress. We examined the effects of decursin extracted from Angelica gigas Nakai on antioxidant activity in vitro and in a cryptorchidism-induced infertility rat model. TM3 Leydig cell viability was measured based on oxidative stress according to treatment. Either distilled water or AG 400 mg/kg of A. gigas extract was administered orally for 4 weeks after unilateral cryptorchidism was induced. After 1, 2, and 4 weeks, six rats from the control group and six rats from treatment group were sacrificed. Testicular weight, semen quality, antioxidant activities, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) protein, and mRNA expression of Nrf2-regulated genes were analyzed. Treatment with A. gigas extract (1) protected TM3 cells against oxidative stress in a dose-dependent manner, (2) improved the mean weight of the cryptorchid testis, (3) maintained sperm counts, motility, and spermatogenic cell density, (4) decreased levels of 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and increased levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), (5) significantly increased Nrf2 and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and (6) significantly decreased apoptosis. This study suggests that decursin extracted from A. gigas is a supplemental agent that can reduce oxidative stress by Nrf2-mediated upregulation of HO-1 in rat experimentally induced unilateral cryptorchidism and may improve cryptorchidism-induced infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woong Jin Bae
- Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Banpo-daero 222, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - U. Syn Ha
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Banpo-daero 222, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Bong Choi
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Banpo-daero 222, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Kang Sup Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Banpo-daero 222, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Jin Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Banpo-daero 222, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyuk Jin Cho
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Banpo-daero 222, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Hoo Hong
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Banpo-daero 222, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Youl Lee
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Banpo-daero 222, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Zhiping Wang
- Department of Urology, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | | | - Sae Woong Kim
- Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Banpo-daero 222, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
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Bae WJ, Choi YS, Kim SJ, Cho HJ, Hong SH, Kim SW, Hwang TK, Kim DJ, Lee JY. Effects of Moderate Alcohol Intake in the Bladder of the Otsuka Long Evans Tokushima Fatty Diabetic Rats. J Korean Med Sci 2015; 30:1313-20. [PMID: 26339173 PMCID: PMC4553680 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2015.30.9.1313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes is related with a number of cystopathic complications. However, there have been no studies about the influence of alcohol consumption in the bladder of type 2 diabetes. Thus, we investigated the effect of moderate alcohol intake in the bladder of the Otsuka Long Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) diabetic rat. The non-diabetic Long-Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO, n=14) and the OLETF control group (n=14) were fed an isocaloric diet; the LETO (n=14) and the OLETF ethanol group (n=14) were fed 36% ethanol 7 g/kg/day. After ten weeks, muscarinic receptors, RhoGEFs, myogenic change, and the level of oxidative stress were evaluated. Moderate alcohol intake significantly decreased excessive muscarinic receptor and Rho kinase expressions in the OLETF rats compared with the LETO rats. In addition, iNOS and collagen expression were not changed in the OLETF rats in spite of alcohol consumption. Superoxide dismutase levels, which is involved in antioxidant defense, in the LETO rats were significantly decreased after alcohol consumption, however those in the OLETF rats were similar. Moderate alcohol consumption reduces the oxidative stress, and may prevent molecular and pathologic changes of the bladder of rats with type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woong Jin Bae
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong Sun Choi
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su Jin Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyuk Jin Cho
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Hoo Hong
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sae Woong Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae-Kon Hwang
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dai Jin Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Youl Lee
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Catholic Prostate Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Bioinformatics, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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15
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Bae WJ, Ha US, Choi JB, Kim KS, Kim SJ, Cho HJ, Hong SH, Lee JY, Wang Z, Hwang SY, Kim SW. Protective Effects of KH-204 in the Bladder of Androgen-Deprived Rats. World J Mens Health 2015; 33:73-80. [PMID: 26331123 PMCID: PMC4550599 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.2015.33.2.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Revised: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We investigated the protective effects of the herbal formulation KH-204 in the bladder of androgen-deprived rats. Materials and Methods Male rats aged eight weeks were randomly divided into four groups, containing eight rats each: sham operation only (normal control group), androgen-deprived only (androgen-deprived control group), and androgen-deprived followed by treatment with 200 mg/kg or 400 mg/kg of KH-204. After 0.5 mg/kg of leuprorelin was subcutaneously injected in the androgen-deprived groups, the oral administration of either distilled water in the two control groups or KH-204 in the treatment group was continued for four weeks. Serum testosterone levels, RhoGEF levels, nitric oxide (NO)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-related parameters, oxidative stress, and histologic changes were evaluated after treatment. Results Treatment with the herbal formulation KH-204 (1) increased serum testosterone levels; (2) restored the expression of RhoGEFs, endothelial NO synthase, and neuronal NO synthase; (3) increased the expression of superoxide dismutase; and (4) decreased bladder fibrosis. Conclusions Our results suggest that the positive effects of KH-204 on the urinary bladder may be attributed to its antioxidant effects or to an elevation in NO-cGMP activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woong Jin Bae
- Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - U Syn Ha
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Bong Choi
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kang Sup Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su Jin Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyuk Jin Cho
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Hoo Hong
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Youl Lee
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Zhiping Wang
- Department of Urology, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | | | - Sae Woong Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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