Three important components in the regeneration of the cavernous nerve: brain-derived neurotrophic factor, vascular endothelial growth factor and the JAK/STAT signaling pathway.

Abstract

Retroperitoneal operations, such as radical prostatectomy, often damage the cavernous nerve, resulting in a high incidence of erectile dysfunction. Although improved nerve-sparing techniques have reduced the incidence of nerve injury, and the administration of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors has revolutionized the treatment of erectile dysfunction, this problem remains a considerable challenge. In recent years, scientists have focused on brain-derived neurotrophic factor and vascular endothelial growth factor in the treatment of cavernous nerve injury in rat models. Results showed that both compounds were capable of enhancing the regeneration of the cavernous nerve and that activation of the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway played a major role in the process.

• Authors: Hai-Yang Zhang, Xun-Bo Jin, Tom F Lue
• Journal: Asian journal of andrology (Asian J Androl) Vol. 13 Issue 2 Pg. 231-5 (Mar 2011) ISSN: 1745-7262 [Electronic] China
• PMID: 21170078 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
• STAT Transcription Factors
• Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
• Janus Kinases

Topics

• Animals
• Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (physiology)
• Erectile Dysfunction (etiology, physiopathology, therapy)
• Humans
• Janus Kinases (physiology)
• Male
• Models, Neurological
• Nerve Regeneration (physiology)
• Penile Erection (physiology)
• Penis (innervation, physiopathology)
• Peripheral Nerve Injuries
• Peripheral Nerves (physiopathology)
• Prostatectomy (adverse effects)
• Rats
• STAT Transcription Factors (physiology)
• Signal Transduction
• Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (physiology)