Co-overexpression of VEGF and GDNF in adipose-derived stem cells optimizes therapeutic effect in neurogenic erectile...

To evaluate the rapid repair potential of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) co-overexpressing VEGF and GDNF on bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI) in rat models. Progressive fibrosis of the penis that occurs shortly after BCNI is a key cause of clinical treatment difficulty of erectile dysfunction (ED). Traditional medications are ineffective for ED caused by BCNI. ADSCs have shown therapeutic effects in animal models, but disappointing in clinical treatment suggests that we should explore optimal treatment of it.

We extracted ADSCs from rat epididymis. Lentiviral transfection was verified by western blot and immunofluorescence. Thirty-six SD rats (10 weeks old) were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6 per group): sham surgery, and remaining five BCNI groups transplanted PBS or ADSCs which were genetically modified by vehicle, VEGF (ADSC-V), GDNF (ADSC-G), or VEGF&GDNF (ADSC-G&V) around major pelvic ganglion (MPG). We investigated the therapeutic effects of BCNI rat model which is characterized by ED, penile tissue fibrosis and hypoxia, and lack of nitrogen nerves or vascular atrophy.

Erectile function was almost recovered after 2 weeks of transplantation of ADSC-G&V, promoted cavernous nerve repair, prevented penile fibrosis and preserving the vascular endothelium, which was significant differences amongst ADSC-V or ADSC-G. Moreover, GM-ADSCs were detected in MPG and penis, indicating that their participation in repair of target organs and transverse nerves.

These promising data indicate that ADSCs co-overexpressed VEGF and GDNF-induced synergistic effects, make it a potential tool for recovering of erectile function speedily after BCNI.