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Jihong Liu - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Transplantation of adipose-derived stem cells overexpressing inducible nitric oxide synthase ameliorates diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction in rats.
    PeerJ, 2019
    Co-Authors: Yan Zhang, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Li Zhuan, Guanghui Zang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Background Erectile dysfunction is a major complication of diabetes mellitus. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have attracted much attention as a promising tool for the treatment of diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) plays an important role in protecting Penile tissues from fibrosis. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of ADSCs overexpressing iNOS on DMED in rats. Methods ADSCs were isolated and infected with adenovirus overexpressing iNOS (named as ADSCs-iNOS). The expression of iNOS was detected using western blot analysis and real-time PCR. Rats were randomly assigned into five groups: control group, DMED group, ADSCs group, ADSCs-EGFP group and ADSCs-iNOS group. 5 × 105 cells were given once via the intracorporal route. Two weeks after treatment, erectile function was assessed by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Penile tissues were obtained and evaluated at histology level. Results We found that ADSCs-iNOS had significantly higher expression of iNOS at mRNA and protein levels and generated more nitric oxide (NO). ADSCs-iNOS reduced collagen I and collagen IV expression of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) in cell co-culture model. Transforming growth factor-β1 expression in CCSMCs reduced following co-culture with ADSCs-iNOS. Injection of ADSCs-iNOS significantly ameliorated DMED in rats and decreased collagen/smooth muscle cell ratio of Penile tissues. Moreover, elevated NO and cyclic guanosine monophosphate concentrations were detected in Penile tissues of ADSCs-iNOS group. Conclusion Taken together, ADSCs-iNOS significantly improved erectile function of DMED rats. The therapeutic effect may be achieved by increased NO generation and the suppression of collagen I and collagen IV expression in the CCSMCs to decrease Penile fibrosis.

  • Transplantation of adipose derived stem cells overexpressing inducible nitric oxide synthase ameliorates diabetes mellitus induced erectile dysfunction in rats
    2019
    Co-Authors: Yan Zhang, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Li Zhuan, Guanghui Zang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Background: Erectile dysfunction is a major complication of diabetes mellitus. Adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) has attracted much attention as a promising tool for the treatment of diabetes mellitus induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) plays an important role in protecting Penile tissues from fibrosis. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of ADSCs overexpressing iNOS on DMED in rats. Methods: ADSCs were isolated and infected with adenovirus overexpressing iNOS (named as ADSCs-iNOS). The expression of iNOS was detected using western blot analysis and real-time PCR. Rats were randomly assigned into five groups: control group, DMED group, ADSCs group, ADSCs-EGFP group and ADSCs-iNOS group. 5×105 cells were given once via the intracorporal route. Two weeks after treatment, erectile function was assessed by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Penile tissues were obtained and evaluated at histology level. Results: We found that ADSCs-iNOS had significantly higher expression of iNOS at mRNA and protein levels and generated more nitric oxide. ADSCs-iNOS reduced collagen I and collagen IV expression of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) in cell co-culture model. Transforming growth factor-β1 expression and p-Smad2/3 to Smad2/3 ratio in CCSMCs reduced following co-culture with ADSCs-iNOS. Injection of ADSCs-iNOS significantly ameliorated DMED in rats and decreased collagen/smooth muscle cell ratio of Penile tissues. Moreover, elevated nitric oxide and cGMP concentrations were detected in Penile tissues of ADSCs-iNOS group. Conclusion: Taken together, ADSCs-iNOS significantly improve erectile function of DMED rats. The therapeutic effect may be achieved by increased nitric oxide generation and the suppression of collagen I and collagen IV expression in the CCSMCs to decrease Penile fibrosis.

  • AB096. Taurine supplementation improves erectile function in rats with streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes via amelioration of Penile fibrosis and endothelial dysfunction.
    Translational Andrology and Urology, 2016
    Co-Authors: Yajun Ruan, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Ke Rao, Shaogang Wang, Weimin Yang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Objective For patients with diabetes, erectile dysfunction (ED) is common and greatly affects quality of life. However, these patients often exhibit a poor response to first-line oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. The aim of this study was to investigate whether taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, affects diabetic ED (DED).

  • Taurine Supplementation Improves Erectile Function in Rats with Streptozotocin-induced Type 1 Diabetes via Amelioration of Penile fibrosis and Endothelial Dysfunction
    The journal of sexual medicine, 2016
    Co-Authors: Yajun Ruan, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Ke Rao, Shaogang Wang, Weiming Yang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Abstract Introduction For patients with diabetes, erectile dysfunction (ED) is common and greatly affects quality of life. However, these patients often exhibit a poor response to first-line oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Aim To investigate whether taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, affects diabetic ED (DED). Methods Type 1 diabetes mellitus was induced in male rats by using streptozotocin. After 12 weeks, an apomorphine test was conducted to confirm DED. Only rats with DED were administered taurine or vehicle for 4 weeks. Age-matched nondiabetic rats were administered saline intraperitoneally for 4 weeks. Main Outcome Measures Erectile function was evaluated by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Histologic and molecular alterations of the corpus cavernosum also were analyzed. Results Erectile function was significantly reduced in the diabetic rats compared with in the nondiabetic rats, and was improved in the diabetic rats treated with taurine. The corpus cavernosum of the rats with DED exhibited severe fibrosis and decreased smooth muscle content. Deposition of extracellular matrix proteins was increased in the diabetic rats, while expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase/cyclic guanosine monophosphate/nitric oxide pathway–related proteins was reduced. Taurine supplementation ameliorated erectile response as well as histologic and molecular alterations. Conclusion Taurine supplementation improves erectile function in rats with DED probably by potential antifibrotic activity. This finding provides evidence for a potential new therapy for DED.

Osama Shaeer - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Penile prosthesis surgery for the fibrotic penis
    Current Sexual Health Reports, 2008
    Co-Authors: Osama Shaeer, Kamal Shaeer
    Abstract:

    Penile fibrosis renders implantation of a Penile prosthesis a formidable procedure. Fibrosed corporate cavernosa resist dilation by blunt dilators, mandating the use of force and resulting in a high percentage of complications. This is a report on advances in the field of Penile prosthesis surgery for the fibrotic penis through the years 2006 to 2008. In that time, bovine pericardium was added to the choices of graft materials used to expand the corpora to accommodate the implant alongside the fibrous tissue. Also, the technique for open excavation of fibrous tissue through extended corporotomies was further evaluated in a series of nine cases. Downsized prostheses that were previously implanted in cases of Penile fibrosis were replaced by regular-sized ones after having served as tissue expanders. Finally, minimally invasive, visually guided, sharp excavation of fibrous tissue has evolved through three stages, combining endoscopy and ultrasonography to safely excavate corporeal fibrous tissue.

  • Implantation of Penile Prosthesis in Cases of Corporeal fibrosis: Modified Shaeer's Excavation Technique
    The journal of sexual medicine, 2008
    Co-Authors: Osama Shaeer
    Abstract:

    ABSTRACT Introduction Implantation of Penile prosthesis in case of corporeal fibrosis poses a greater risk of complications because of the blinded aggression involved. Penoscopic excavation and ultrasonography‐guided excavation can decrease these complications but still have limitations. Aim This work described the combination of penoscopy‐guided and ultrasound‐guided excavation in a trial to eliminate the limitations inherent to both. Methods Twelve patients with Penile fibrosis were operated upon. A guide wire was inserted under ultrasound monitoring, along which penoscopic corporotomy and resection was performed. Ultrasound was also used to monitor penoscopic excavation toward the tip of the corpus cavernosum and crus. Main Outcome Measures Ease of the procedure, safety, extent of dilatation, and girth of prosthesis implanted. Results The procedure was relatively easy. Ten cases were dilated up to size 13.5 Hegar, and two up to size 14. Size 13 prosthesis was implanted in all cases. Conclusion The relative safety of the procedure, the low incidence of complications, the possibility of restoring length and girth to an extent, and the resultant generous dilatation of the corpora for accommodating a sizable unhindered inflatable Penile prosthesis all make ultrasound‐guided penoscopic corporotomy and resection a valid option for prosthesis implantation in cases of Penile fibrosis. Shaeer O. Implantation of Penile prosthesis in cases of corporeal fibrosis: Modified Shaeer's excavation technique. J Sex Med 2008;5:2470–2476.

  • surgical techniques penoscopy optical corporotomy and resection for prosthesis implantation in cases of Penile fibrosis shaeer s technique
    The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2007
    Co-Authors: Osama Shaeer
    Abstract:

    FIGURE 1 Implanting a Penile prosthesis in corpora cavernosa with significant fibrosis represents a challenge to the surgeon. fibrosis may result from delayed re-implantation following removal of an infected prosthesis, extensive Peyronie’s disease, as well as veno-occlusive priapism. Forceful dilation of the corpora cavernosa against resistance is performed in a blind fashion. Complications resulting from aggressive blind dilation include perforation of the corpora and injury to the urethra. The optical corporotomy and resection technique allows a tunnel to be created within rather than alongside the fibrous tissue to accommodate the prosthesis without force and under vision. Healthy erectile tissue Fibrotic erectile tissue

  • JSM HIGHLIGHTSSurgical Techniques: Penoscopy: Optical Corporotomy and Resection for Prosthesis Implantation in Cases of Penile fibrosis, Shaeer's Technique
    The journal of sexual medicine, 2007
    Co-Authors: Osama Shaeer
    Abstract:

    FIGURE 1 Implanting a Penile prosthesis in corpora cavernosa with significant fibrosis represents a challenge to the surgeon. fibrosis may result from delayed re-implantation following removal of an infected prosthesis, extensive Peyronie’s disease, as well as veno-occlusive priapism. Forceful dilation of the corpora cavernosa against resistance is performed in a blind fashion. Complications resulting from aggressive blind dilation include perforation of the corpora and injury to the urethra. The optical corporotomy and resection technique allows a tunnel to be created within rather than alongside the fibrous tissue to accommodate the prosthesis without force and under vision. Healthy erectile tissue Fibrotic erectile tissue

Jun Yang - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Transplantation of adipose-derived stem cells overexpressing inducible nitric oxide synthase ameliorates diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction in rats.
    PeerJ, 2019
    Co-Authors: Yan Zhang, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Li Zhuan, Guanghui Zang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Background Erectile dysfunction is a major complication of diabetes mellitus. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have attracted much attention as a promising tool for the treatment of diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) plays an important role in protecting Penile tissues from fibrosis. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of ADSCs overexpressing iNOS on DMED in rats. Methods ADSCs were isolated and infected with adenovirus overexpressing iNOS (named as ADSCs-iNOS). The expression of iNOS was detected using western blot analysis and real-time PCR. Rats were randomly assigned into five groups: control group, DMED group, ADSCs group, ADSCs-EGFP group and ADSCs-iNOS group. 5 × 105 cells were given once via the intracorporal route. Two weeks after treatment, erectile function was assessed by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Penile tissues were obtained and evaluated at histology level. Results We found that ADSCs-iNOS had significantly higher expression of iNOS at mRNA and protein levels and generated more nitric oxide (NO). ADSCs-iNOS reduced collagen I and collagen IV expression of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) in cell co-culture model. Transforming growth factor-β1 expression in CCSMCs reduced following co-culture with ADSCs-iNOS. Injection of ADSCs-iNOS significantly ameliorated DMED in rats and decreased collagen/smooth muscle cell ratio of Penile tissues. Moreover, elevated NO and cyclic guanosine monophosphate concentrations were detected in Penile tissues of ADSCs-iNOS group. Conclusion Taken together, ADSCs-iNOS significantly improved erectile function of DMED rats. The therapeutic effect may be achieved by increased NO generation and the suppression of collagen I and collagen IV expression in the CCSMCs to decrease Penile fibrosis.

  • Transplantation of adipose derived stem cells overexpressing inducible nitric oxide synthase ameliorates diabetes mellitus induced erectile dysfunction in rats
    2019
    Co-Authors: Yan Zhang, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Li Zhuan, Guanghui Zang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Background: Erectile dysfunction is a major complication of diabetes mellitus. Adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) has attracted much attention as a promising tool for the treatment of diabetes mellitus induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) plays an important role in protecting Penile tissues from fibrosis. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of ADSCs overexpressing iNOS on DMED in rats. Methods: ADSCs were isolated and infected with adenovirus overexpressing iNOS (named as ADSCs-iNOS). The expression of iNOS was detected using western blot analysis and real-time PCR. Rats were randomly assigned into five groups: control group, DMED group, ADSCs group, ADSCs-EGFP group and ADSCs-iNOS group. 5×105 cells were given once via the intracorporal route. Two weeks after treatment, erectile function was assessed by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Penile tissues were obtained and evaluated at histology level. Results: We found that ADSCs-iNOS had significantly higher expression of iNOS at mRNA and protein levels and generated more nitric oxide. ADSCs-iNOS reduced collagen I and collagen IV expression of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) in cell co-culture model. Transforming growth factor-β1 expression and p-Smad2/3 to Smad2/3 ratio in CCSMCs reduced following co-culture with ADSCs-iNOS. Injection of ADSCs-iNOS significantly ameliorated DMED in rats and decreased collagen/smooth muscle cell ratio of Penile tissues. Moreover, elevated nitric oxide and cGMP concentrations were detected in Penile tissues of ADSCs-iNOS group. Conclusion: Taken together, ADSCs-iNOS significantly improve erectile function of DMED rats. The therapeutic effect may be achieved by increased nitric oxide generation and the suppression of collagen I and collagen IV expression in the CCSMCs to decrease Penile fibrosis.

  • AB096. Taurine supplementation improves erectile function in rats with streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes via amelioration of Penile fibrosis and endothelial dysfunction.
    Translational Andrology and Urology, 2016
    Co-Authors: Yajun Ruan, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Ke Rao, Shaogang Wang, Weimin Yang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Objective For patients with diabetes, erectile dysfunction (ED) is common and greatly affects quality of life. However, these patients often exhibit a poor response to first-line oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. The aim of this study was to investigate whether taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, affects diabetic ED (DED).

  • Taurine Supplementation Improves Erectile Function in Rats with Streptozotocin-induced Type 1 Diabetes via Amelioration of Penile fibrosis and Endothelial Dysfunction
    The journal of sexual medicine, 2016
    Co-Authors: Yajun Ruan, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Ke Rao, Shaogang Wang, Weiming Yang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Abstract Introduction For patients with diabetes, erectile dysfunction (ED) is common and greatly affects quality of life. However, these patients often exhibit a poor response to first-line oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Aim To investigate whether taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, affects diabetic ED (DED). Methods Type 1 diabetes mellitus was induced in male rats by using streptozotocin. After 12 weeks, an apomorphine test was conducted to confirm DED. Only rats with DED were administered taurine or vehicle for 4 weeks. Age-matched nondiabetic rats were administered saline intraperitoneally for 4 weeks. Main Outcome Measures Erectile function was evaluated by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Histologic and molecular alterations of the corpus cavernosum also were analyzed. Results Erectile function was significantly reduced in the diabetic rats compared with in the nondiabetic rats, and was improved in the diabetic rats treated with taurine. The corpus cavernosum of the rats with DED exhibited severe fibrosis and decreased smooth muscle content. Deposition of extracellular matrix proteins was increased in the diabetic rats, while expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase/cyclic guanosine monophosphate/nitric oxide pathway–related proteins was reduced. Taurine supplementation ameliorated erectile response as well as histologic and molecular alterations. Conclusion Taurine supplementation improves erectile function in rats with DED probably by potential antifibrotic activity. This finding provides evidence for a potential new therapy for DED.

Tao Wang - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Transplantation of adipose-derived stem cells overexpressing inducible nitric oxide synthase ameliorates diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction in rats.
    PeerJ, 2019
    Co-Authors: Yan Zhang, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Li Zhuan, Guanghui Zang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Background Erectile dysfunction is a major complication of diabetes mellitus. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have attracted much attention as a promising tool for the treatment of diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) plays an important role in protecting Penile tissues from fibrosis. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of ADSCs overexpressing iNOS on DMED in rats. Methods ADSCs were isolated and infected with adenovirus overexpressing iNOS (named as ADSCs-iNOS). The expression of iNOS was detected using western blot analysis and real-time PCR. Rats were randomly assigned into five groups: control group, DMED group, ADSCs group, ADSCs-EGFP group and ADSCs-iNOS group. 5 × 105 cells were given once via the intracorporal route. Two weeks after treatment, erectile function was assessed by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Penile tissues were obtained and evaluated at histology level. Results We found that ADSCs-iNOS had significantly higher expression of iNOS at mRNA and protein levels and generated more nitric oxide (NO). ADSCs-iNOS reduced collagen I and collagen IV expression of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) in cell co-culture model. Transforming growth factor-β1 expression in CCSMCs reduced following co-culture with ADSCs-iNOS. Injection of ADSCs-iNOS significantly ameliorated DMED in rats and decreased collagen/smooth muscle cell ratio of Penile tissues. Moreover, elevated NO and cyclic guanosine monophosphate concentrations were detected in Penile tissues of ADSCs-iNOS group. Conclusion Taken together, ADSCs-iNOS significantly improved erectile function of DMED rats. The therapeutic effect may be achieved by increased NO generation and the suppression of collagen I and collagen IV expression in the CCSMCs to decrease Penile fibrosis.

  • Transplantation of adipose derived stem cells overexpressing inducible nitric oxide synthase ameliorates diabetes mellitus induced erectile dysfunction in rats
    2019
    Co-Authors: Yan Zhang, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Li Zhuan, Guanghui Zang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Background: Erectile dysfunction is a major complication of diabetes mellitus. Adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) has attracted much attention as a promising tool for the treatment of diabetes mellitus induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) plays an important role in protecting Penile tissues from fibrosis. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of ADSCs overexpressing iNOS on DMED in rats. Methods: ADSCs were isolated and infected with adenovirus overexpressing iNOS (named as ADSCs-iNOS). The expression of iNOS was detected using western blot analysis and real-time PCR. Rats were randomly assigned into five groups: control group, DMED group, ADSCs group, ADSCs-EGFP group and ADSCs-iNOS group. 5×105 cells were given once via the intracorporal route. Two weeks after treatment, erectile function was assessed by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Penile tissues were obtained and evaluated at histology level. Results: We found that ADSCs-iNOS had significantly higher expression of iNOS at mRNA and protein levels and generated more nitric oxide. ADSCs-iNOS reduced collagen I and collagen IV expression of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) in cell co-culture model. Transforming growth factor-β1 expression and p-Smad2/3 to Smad2/3 ratio in CCSMCs reduced following co-culture with ADSCs-iNOS. Injection of ADSCs-iNOS significantly ameliorated DMED in rats and decreased collagen/smooth muscle cell ratio of Penile tissues. Moreover, elevated nitric oxide and cGMP concentrations were detected in Penile tissues of ADSCs-iNOS group. Conclusion: Taken together, ADSCs-iNOS significantly improve erectile function of DMED rats. The therapeutic effect may be achieved by increased nitric oxide generation and the suppression of collagen I and collagen IV expression in the CCSMCs to decrease Penile fibrosis.

  • AB096. Taurine supplementation improves erectile function in rats with streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes via amelioration of Penile fibrosis and endothelial dysfunction.
    Translational Andrology and Urology, 2016
    Co-Authors: Yajun Ruan, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Ke Rao, Shaogang Wang, Weimin Yang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Objective For patients with diabetes, erectile dysfunction (ED) is common and greatly affects quality of life. However, these patients often exhibit a poor response to first-line oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. The aim of this study was to investigate whether taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, affects diabetic ED (DED).

  • Taurine Supplementation Improves Erectile Function in Rats with Streptozotocin-induced Type 1 Diabetes via Amelioration of Penile fibrosis and Endothelial Dysfunction
    The journal of sexual medicine, 2016
    Co-Authors: Yajun Ruan, Tao Wang, Jun Yang, Ke Rao, Shaogang Wang, Weiming Yang, Jihong Liu
    Abstract:

    Abstract Introduction For patients with diabetes, erectile dysfunction (ED) is common and greatly affects quality of life. However, these patients often exhibit a poor response to first-line oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Aim To investigate whether taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, affects diabetic ED (DED). Methods Type 1 diabetes mellitus was induced in male rats by using streptozotocin. After 12 weeks, an apomorphine test was conducted to confirm DED. Only rats with DED were administered taurine or vehicle for 4 weeks. Age-matched nondiabetic rats were administered saline intraperitoneally for 4 weeks. Main Outcome Measures Erectile function was evaluated by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Histologic and molecular alterations of the corpus cavernosum also were analyzed. Results Erectile function was significantly reduced in the diabetic rats compared with in the nondiabetic rats, and was improved in the diabetic rats treated with taurine. The corpus cavernosum of the rats with DED exhibited severe fibrosis and decreased smooth muscle content. Deposition of extracellular matrix proteins was increased in the diabetic rats, while expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase/cyclic guanosine monophosphate/nitric oxide pathway–related proteins was reduced. Taurine supplementation ameliorated erectile response as well as histologic and molecular alterations. Conclusion Taurine supplementation improves erectile function in rats with DED probably by potential antifibrotic activity. This finding provides evidence for a potential new therapy for DED.

Maarten Albersen - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • The mechanisms and potential of stem cell therapy for Penile fibrosis
    Nature reviews. Urology, 2018
    Co-Authors: Uros Milenkovic, Maarten Albersen, Fabio Castiglione
    Abstract:

    fibrosis is often caused by chronic tissue injury leading to a persisting inflammatory response with excessive accumulation of extracellular connective tissue proteins. Peyronie’s disease, urethral stricture and Penile (corpora cavernosa) fibrosis are localized fibrotic disorders of the Penile connective tissues that can substantially impair a patient’s quality of life. Research over the past few decades has revealed the ability of stem cells to secrete a wide range of paracrine factors, a characteristic that could be exploited therapeutically to prevent and treat several inflammatory and fibrotic diseases. In preclinical studies, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have proven to be the most effective and readily available type of stem cells for therapeutic use. An important advantage of MSCs is their ability to circumvent the immune system and function as immunomodulatory ‘drug stores’ to influence multiple cell types simultaneously. Many studies using stem cells have been applied exclusively to corpora cavernosa fibrosis owing to its well-established disease models. A plethora of preclinical data suggest the benefit of stem cells for use in Penile fibrosis. However, their exact mechanism of action and optimal timing and mode of administration must be determined before clinical translation. In this Review, the authors describe the current preclinical research into stem cell therapy for the treatment and prevention of Penile fibrotic disorders, including Peyronie’s disease, urethral stricture and corpora cavernosa fibrosis, and highlight their specific mechanisms of antifibrotic activity.

  • Erectile dysfunction
    Nature reviews. Disease primers, 2016
    Co-Authors: Faysal A Yafi, Lawrence Jenkins, Sharon Parish, Shari Goldfarb, Christian J Nelson, Mario Maggi, Maarten Albersen, Andrea Salonia, Giovanni Corona, Andrea M. Isidori
    Abstract:

    Erectile dysfunction is a multidimensional but common male sexual dysfunction that involves an alteration in any of the components of the erectile response, including organic, relational and psychological. Roles for nonendocrine (neurogenic, vasculogenic and iatrogenic) and endocrine pathways have been proposed. Owing to its strong association with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease, cardiac assessment may be warranted in men with symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Minimally invasive interventions to relieve the symptoms of erectile dysfunction include lifestyle modifications, oral drugs, injected vasodilator agents and vacuum erection devices. Surgical therapies are reserved for the subset of patients who have contraindications to these nonsurgical interventions, those who experience adverse effects from (or are refractory to) medical therapy and those who also have Penile fibrosis or Penile vascular insufficiency. Erectile dysfunction can have deleterious effects on a man's quality of life; most patients have symptoms of depression and anxiety related to sexual performance. These symptoms, in turn, affect his partner's sexual experience and the couple's quality of life. This Primer highlights numerous aspects of erectile dysfunction, summarizes new treatment targets and ongoing preclinical studies that evaluate new pharmacotherapies, and covers the topic of regenerative medicine, which represents the future of sexual medicine.

  • Pentoxifylline Promotes Recovery of Erectile Function in a Rat Model of Postprostatectomy Erectile Dysfunction
    European urology, 2010
    Co-Authors: Maarten Albersen, Thomas M. Fandel, Haiyang Zhang, Lia Banie, Guiting Lin, Dirk De Ridder, Ching-shwun Lin, Tom F. Lue
    Abstract:

    Background Cavernous nerve (CN) injury during radical prostatectomy (RP) causes CN degeneration and secondary Penile fibrosis and smooth muscle cell (SMC) apoptosis. Pentoxifylline (PTX) is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor that further inhibits multiple cytokine pathways involved in nerve degeneration, apoptosis, and fibrosis.