Standardizing urethral stricture models in rats: a comprehensive study on histomorphologic and molecular approach

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Animal Models

Background:

• Standardization of animal models for urethral stricture is crucial for reliable research.
• Existing models may lack reproducibility and detailed molecular analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a standardized and reproducible rat model of urethral stricture.
• To evaluate histomorphologic and gene expression changes in the induced stricture model.

Main Methods:

• Sixteen male rats were divided into sham and electrocauterization groups.
• Urethral strictures were induced via electrocauterization of the corpus spongiosum.
• Histologic, immunohistochemical, and gene expression analyses were performed on day 15.

Main Results:

• The stricture group showed significant spongiofibrosis, inflammation, and vascular congestion compared to controls (p < 0.05).
• Increased expression of collagen, elastin, TGF-β1, α-SMA, and PDGF-α/β was observed in stricture tissues.
• TGF-β1, PDGF-α, and PDGF-β strongly correlated with other fibrotic markers (r > 0.60, p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Electrocauterization provides a simple, reliable, and inexpensive method for inducing urethral stricture in rats.
• Histologic scoring enhances data standardization and understanding of stricture development.
• TGF-β and PDGF signaling pathways are critical in urethral stricture fibrosis, validating this model for further study.