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A rat model of Peyronie's disease associated with a decrease in erectile activity and an increase in inducible nitric
T J Bivalacqua1, E K Diner, T E Novak
1Departments of Urology and Pharmacology, Tulane University Medical School, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.
The Journal of Urology
|May 8, 2000
Summary
Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta1) and surgical injury impair erectile function in rats by upregulating inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Inhibiting iNOS improves erectile responses, suggesting a role in Peyronie's disease pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Andrology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Peyronie's disease is characterized by penile fibrosis and can lead to erectile dysfunction.
- The role of nitric oxide (NO) in the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction associated with Peyronie's disease is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate erectile function in rat models of Peyronie's disease induced by TGF-beta1 injection or surgical injury.
- To investigate the involvement of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms, specifically inducible NOS (iNOS), in this disease model.
Main Methods:
- Adult male rats were divided into three groups: saline-injected, TGF-beta1-injected, and surgical injury.
- Erectile function was assessed via cavernosal nerve and pharmacological stimulation after six weeks.
- NOS enzyme activity (constitutive and inducible) was measured, and penile tissues were histologically examined.
Main Results:
- TGF-beta1 injection and surgical injury significantly reduced erectile function compared to controls.
- Inducible NOS (iNOS) activity was significantly elevated, while constitutive NOS was downregulated in the affected groups.
- Inhibition of iNOS notably enhanced erectile responses to nerve stimulation.
Conclusions:
- Upregulation of iNOS and downregulation of constitutive NOS are associated with impaired erectile function in rat models of Peyronie's disease.
- iNOS inhibition demonstrates a potential therapeutic avenue by improving erectile function, suggesting iNOS plays a critical role in altering penile vascular tone.