Penile Weight and Cell Subtype Specific Changes in a Post-Radical Prostatectomy Model of Erectile Dysfunction

ABSTRACTPurpose: We evaluated neurogenic erectile dysfunction, focusing on the post-radical prostatectomy model. We investigated changes in DNA, protein and apoptotic cells of the rat penis after denervation. Gross morphometry was measured to elucidate the impact of chemical changes.Materials and Methods: Postpubertal male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to bilateral or unilateral cavernous nerve transection, or sham operation. Wet weight, DNA content and protein content were measured. Tissue sections were stained for apoptosis by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling and the apoptotic index was calculated. Dual staining was performed for endothelial and smooth muscle cells to identify apoptotic cells.Results: Penile wet weight was significantly decreased at all time points after bilateral neurotomy (p <0.0005). Unilateral neurotomy allowed much greater preservation of penile weight. DNA content was significantly decreased in bilaterally denervated ...