Stereological analysis of elastic fibers of the corpus cavernosum of rats during the aging process

Abstract Purpose To evaluate changes in the quantity of elastic fibers in the corpora cavernosa of rats during the natural aging process, and to assess the degree of this change by determining volumetric density (Vv) at different ages via stereological analysis. Methods Forty-eight rats, raised under similar conditions, were subjected to the natural aging process and divided into four groups (G1 to G4), according to age at the time of penectomy (6, 9, 12, and 24 months, respectively). Histological sections of the middle segment of the penis were stained with Weigert's resorcin-fuchsin, and the volumetric density (Vv) of elastic fibers of the corpora cavernosa were determined via stereological analysis. Results There were no statistically significant differences in Vv among groups G1, G2, and G3. These three groups were therefore considered as a single group. The mean Vv of this group showed a statistically significant reduction compared to that of G4 (0.16 vs. 0.11, p<0.05). Conclusion Natural aging in rats was responsible for a reduction in volumetric density of elastic fibers of the corpora cavernosa (approximately 30% decrease in Vv) during senescence.

Acellular human glans extracellular matrix as a scaffold for tissue engineering: in vitro cell support and biocompatibility

ABSTRACT Objectives: Diseases of the genitourinary tract can lead to significant damage. Current reconstructive techniques are limited by tissue availability and compatibility. This study aims to assess if the decellularized human glans can be used as a biomaterial for penile reconstruction. Materials and Methods: Samples of the glans matrices were descellularized. We evaluate the presence of collagen type I and III, and elastic fibers. Biocompatibility assays were performed to assess the cytotoxic and non-cytotoxic interactions between the acellular matrix and 3T3 cells. The matrices were seeded with mesenchymal stem cells and were assessed for viability and integration of these cells. Biomechanical tests in native tissue, descellularized matrix and seeded matrix were performed to characterize their biomechanical properties. Results: The tissue architecture of the decellularized matrix of human glans was preserved as well as the maintenance of the biomechanical and biological properties. The analyzes of glans seeded with mesenchymal stem cells revealed the integration of these cells to the matrices, and its viability during two weeks "in vitro". Conclusion: The decellularization process did not alter the biological and biomechanical characteristics of the human glans. When these matrices were seeded they were able to maintain the cells integrity and vitality.

Primary study in rabbit penile corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cell culture and RyRs expression / 法医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate expression of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) in rabbit penile corpus cavernosum smooth muscle (CCSM) cells.@*METHODS@#New Zealand White Rabbit CCSM cells were cultured by primary tissue culture. Using CCSM cells and fibroblast have different adherence velocity, CCSM cell can be purified. Identification of CCSM cell was by inverted microscope and immunofluorescence technique. The cDNA sequence of RyRs was found out by searching genebank. Three pair of primers were designed by Primer Premier 5.0. The RyRs subunits mRNA was detected by reverse transcription PCR in cultured CCSM cells.@*RESULTS@#After 7d, we found growth of cultured cells. While 15 to approximately 20 d, cells filled the bottom of culture flask. They were identified by inverted microscope and immunofluorescence technique. After purification, purity of CCSM cells was near to 100%. It suggested only RyRs1 subunit was expressive in CCSM by RT-PCR.@*CONCLUSION@#RyRsl subunit is expressed in CCSM cells. It suggests that RyRs contribute to the regulation of Ca2+ in CCSM cells.