Publications by authors named "David J Zelner"
Purpose: We focused on the post-radical prostatectomy model to advance the understanding of neurogenic erectile dysfunction. We attempted to identify previously undescribed molecular changes via gene discovery methods using GeneChip (Affymetrix, Santa Clara, California) microarray technology.
Materials And Methods: Five male adult 120-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats underwent bilateral cavernous nerve neurectomy.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common and debilitating pathological development that affects up to 75% of diabetic males. Neural stimulation is a crucial aspect of the normal erection process. Nerve injury causes ED and disrupts signaling of the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) cascade in the smooth muscle of the corpora cavernosa.
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- This study examines neurogenic erectile dysfunction in rats after nerve damage, focusing on changes in DNA, protein, and cell apoptosis in the penis.
- Following surgery, significant reductions in penile wet weight and DNA content were observed, especially after bilateral nerve transection, while unilateral transection allowed for better preservation.
- The findings highlight the importance of nerve health for maintaining penile structure and suggest that apoptosis in smooth muscle cells plays a role in dysfunction post-surgery.
The penis is unique in that it undergoes morphogenesis and differentiation primarily in the postnatal period. For complex structures such as the penis to be made from undifferentiated precursor cells, proliferation, differentiation, and patterning are required. This process involves coordinated activity of multiple signals.
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