Systemic Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Induces Favorable Histological Changes in the Corpus Cavernosum of Hypercholesterolemic Rabbits

ABSTRACTPurpose: Hypercholesterolemia causes erectile dysfunction that is associated with abnormalities in vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells. We determined the effects of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on corporeal tissue in hypercholesterolemic rabbits.Materials and Methods: A total of 16 New Zealand White rabbits were fed a 1% cholesterol diet for 6 weeks and were randomly divided into 3 groups. Group 1 (5 rabbits) received 2.5 μg recombinant bFGF intravenously once and again 3 weeks later. Group 2 (6 rabbits) received 2.5 μg bFGF intravenously once and placebo 3 weeks later. Group 3 (5 rabbits) received placebo intravenously each time. Rabbits were continuously fed a 1% cholesterol diet and sacrificed 3 weeks after the last treatment. Smooth muscle, endothelial cell and collagen content were assessed by immunohistochemistry and histochemical staining of corporeal tissue. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein and mRNA expression were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent ...