MicroRNA-18a-5p represses scar fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition through regulating Smad2 expression.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression and role of microRNA-18a-5p (miR-18a-5p) during the formation of hypertrophic scar (HS), and to further explore the molecular mechanisms involved. Downregulation of miR-18a-5p in HS tissues and human HS fibroblasts (hHSFs) was detected by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The binding sites between miR-18a-5p and the 3'-untranslated region of SMAD family member 2 (Smad2) were predicted by TargetScan and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay.

[Restoration of partial penile defect by scrotal skin flap in combination with penile lengthening].

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and clinical efficacy of a scrotal skin flap in combination with penile lengthening for repairing penile defects.

Methods: From 1999 to 2008, 7 cases (19 to 42 years old) of penile defects were treated by scrotal skin flap in combination with penile lengthening. The average preoperative length of stubbed penis was 2.

[Anatomic research and clinical application of modified penile elongation: a report of 205 cases].

Objective: To investigate the application of penile cavernous bodies elongation combined with fat flap for the treatment of micro-penis.

Methods: Anatomic study was performed to study the thickness of penile suspension ligaments and the relationship between the penile erection stability and the mobilization of cavernous bodies crus. The suspension ligaments were divided and cavernous bodies crus were partially mobilized, so as to release part of the cavernous bodies from inferior ramus of pubis.