Probucol Improves Erectile Function by Restoring Endothelial Function and Preventing Cavernous Fibrosis in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats
Abstract
To investigate the effects of probucol on erectile function in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and explore the underlying mechanisms. A total of thirty 12-week-old Sprague-Dawley male rats received a 1-time intraperitoneal streptozotocin (60 mg/kg) or vehicle injection after a 12-hour fast. Three days later, the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were randomly divided into 2 groups and were treated with daily gavage feedings of probucol at doses of 0 and 500 mg/kg for 12 weeks. A positive control group underwent intraperitoneal injection of saline followed by daily gavage of saline solution. Erectile function was assessed by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerves with real-time intracavernous pressure measurement. After euthanasia, penile tissue was investigated using immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and ELISA to assess the protein arginine-N-methyltransferase 1/dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase/asymmetric dimethylarginine/nitric oxide synthase metabolism pathway. Superoxide dismutase activity and malondialdehyde levels were detected by colorimetry. We also evaluated penile histological changes such as smooth muscle contents and Masson's trichrome stain. Significant recovery of erectile function was obse...Continue Reading
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