Comprehensive Analysis of lncRNA Expression Pattern and lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA Network in a Rat Model With Cavernous Nerve Injury Erectile Dysfunction

The Journal of Sexual Medicine
Rong CongXianghu Meng

Abstract

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are differentially expressed in erectile dysfunction (ED) associated with aging and diabetes mellitus; however, the lncRNA expression profile in cavernous nerve (CN) injury-related ED (CNI-ED) is unknown. To investigate the dysregulated lncRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs), and mRNA expression in CNI-ED and construct a potential lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network. 22 male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into bilateral CN crush (BCNC) and Sham groups. Using second-generation high-throughput sequencing technology, we analyzed the expression profiles of lncRNA, miRNA, and mRNA of the 2 groups. 17 differentially expressed lncRNAs were selected and further validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network, Gene Ontology (GO) term enrichment, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed using Cytoscape. Intra-cavernosal pressure, mean arterial pressure, smooth muscle content, and the expression of miRNA, mRNA, and lncRNA were measured. The BCNC group showed decreased intra-cavernosal/mean arterial pressure as well as decreased smooth muscle/collagen ratios compared with the Sham group. The RNA sequencing results revealed dysre...Continue Reading

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Axon Guidance

Axon guidance is a complex neural developmental field that investigates mechanisms through which neurons send out axons to reach its target. Here is the latest research in this domain.

Genetics & Epigenetics of Aging

Dozens of genes are implicated in lifespan, and epigenetic changes during aging affect cell function. This feed focuses on the genetics and epigenetics of aging.

Aging & Diabetes

This feed focuses on the role of the aging process on developing diabetes.