Losartan treatment significantly attenuates the fibrotic changes in the corpus cavernosum of castrated rats

Abstract Introduction and objectives The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of castration and subsequent losartan administration on the fibrosis-related parameters in the corpora cavernosa of castrated rats. Material and methods Twenty-four male rats were divided into four equal groups. Group 1:sham surgery plus vehicle (0.9% NaCl) (control:con), group 2:sham surgery plus losartan (con+los), group 3: castration plus vehicle (castration:cast) and group 4:castration plus losartan (cast+los). After four weeks of oral losartan treatment, corporal levels of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1), alpha-actin, beta-actin and fibronectin were investigated by ELISA kits. Changes in the collagen and smooth muscle content were evaluated by histological analysis with Masson trichrome staining. Results Initial and post-treatment body weights of rats were similar among groups. Castration significantly increased the expression of TGF-β, TSP-1 and fibronectin and resulted in a significant decrease in alpha-actin levels in the corpora cavernosa. Administration of losartan reduced the levels of TGF-β, TSP-1 and fibronectin in castrated rats. Alpha actin levels also increased after losartan treatment. Beta-actin levels were not significantly different among 4 groups. The levels of all markers were similar in group 1 and 2. Rate of fibrosis was significantly higher in castrated rats and treatment with losartan reduced this rate. Conclusion Castration increased the expression of fibrosis-related markers in the corpora cavernosa of rats. Administration of losartan significantly attenuated those changes and exerted an antifibrotic effect.