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Updated: Apr 20, 2026

Isolation of Adipose Derived Regenerative Cells for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction Following Radical Prostatectomy
Published on: December 28, 2021
Circulating endothelial progenitor cells in type 1 diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction
Maria Ida Maiorino1, Giuseppe Bellastella, Michela Petrizzo
1Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic Science and Geriatrics, University Hospital at Second University of Naples, Piazza L. Miraglia n° 2, 80138, Naples, Italy, mariaida.maiorino@unina2.it.
Type 1 diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) have lower levels of circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), specifically CD34+KDR+CD133+ cells. These reduced EPC levels correlate with ED severity and testosterone levels, suggesting a role in vascular repair.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Endocrinology
- Stem Cell Biology
Background:
- Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are crucial for vascular repair by differentiating into endothelial cells.
- Reduced EPC levels are observed in diabetes mellitus and erectile dysfunction (ED).
- The relationship between EPC phenotypes, testosterone, and ED in type 1 diabetes requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate circulating EPC phenotypes in young type 1 diabetic patients with ED.
- To assess the correlation between EPC levels, testosterone concentrations, and erectile function.
- To identify potential risk factors for ED in this population.
Main Methods:
- Study included 118 type 1 diabetic patients and 60 healthy controls.
- Erectile function assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5).
- EPC levels quantified by flow cytometry; testosterone levels measured.
- Patients categorized into diabetic with ED (Group 1) and without ED (Group 2).
Main Results:
- CD34+KDR+CD133+ EPCs were significantly lower in diabetic patients with ED compared to those without (12 vs. 18 cells/10^6 events, P < 0.001).
- Circulating CD34+KDR+CD133+ cells positively correlated with testosterone levels (r = 0.410, P < 0.001) in all participants.
- Higher CD34+KDR+ cells independently predicted ED (β = 0.348, P = 0.007).
Conclusions:
- Type 1 diabetic patients with ED exhibit diminished CD34+KDR+CD133+ EPC levels.
- EPC counts correlate with erectile function (IIEF-5) and testosterone levels.
- Testosterone's role in regulating vascular homeostasis via EPCs warrants further research.
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