Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026

Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Published on: May 19, 2022
Pioglitazone prevents cavernosal nerve injury after radical prostatectomy
Louis A Aliperti1, Wayne J G Hellstrom1
1Tulane University Medical Center, Department of Urology, New Orleans, LA, United States.
Abstract:
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common consequence of radical prostatectomy (RP) and can affect a man's long-term quality of life. Intraoperative manipulation of the neurovascular bundle causes neuropraxia with resultant fibrosis and trabecular smooth-muscle damage. Pioglitazone is an anti-diabetic agent with recognized antifibrotic and vasculoprotective properties, which can protect smooth muscle function. We hypothesize that post-RP pioglitazone therapy can help preserve erectile function.
Related Concept Videos
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Glinides
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Biguanides and Glitazones
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Prostacyclin Receptor Agonists
These agonists bind to the IPR receptor situated on the plasma membrane of the pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells. This binding triggers a cascade of reactions known as the GS-AC-cAMP-PKA pathway. This pathway results in the relaxation of smooth muscle...
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
Among the PDE5 inhibitors, sildenafil (Revatio) stands out as a competitive and selective inhibitor. It operates by elevating cellular levels of cGMP and augmenting signaling through the cGMP-PKG pathway, promoting vasodilation. Upon oral...
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care

