Astaxanthin mitigates radiation-induced erectile dysfunction: protective effects on corpus cavernosum in a rat model

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Radiation Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Ionizing radiation (iR) can cause erectile dysfunction (ED).
• The corpus cavernosum's function is compromised by iR.
• Astaxanthin (AST) is a potent antioxidant with potential therapeutic benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the protective effects of AST against iR-induced erectile dysfunction (RiED).
• To evaluate the impact of iR on the corpus cavernosum.
• To assess AST's efficacy in preserving erectile function and tissue integrity post-radiation.

Main Methods:

• Male Wistar Albino rats were divided into sham, radiotherapy (RT), RT + vehicle (olive oil), and RT + AST groups.
• Prostate-targeted 12-Gy iR was administered.
• Erectile function (ICP/MAP ratio), cavernous sinusoid dimensions, smooth muscle actin, NOS levels, cGMP, and lipid peroxidation were measured after 12 weeks.

Main Results:

• RT significantly reduced ICP/MAP ratios, narrowed cavernous sinusoids, and decreased alpha-smooth muscle actin and NOS levels.
• AST treatment preserved ICP/MAP ratios, sinusoid dimensions, and protein expression compared to RT alone.
• AST administration increased cGMP levels and reduced lipid peroxidation, indicating reduced oxidative stress.

Conclusions:

• Astaxanthin demonstrates significant protective effects against radiation-induced erectile dysfunction.
• AST preserves the structural and functional integrity of the corpus cavernosum following ionizing radiation.
• AST holds promise as a therapeutic agent for preventing or mitigating RiED.