Work

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

Year: 2010

Type: review

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.

Source: Asian Journal of Andrology

DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.162

Authors: Hai-Yang Zhang, Xun-Bo Jin, Tom F Lue

Institutions: Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, University of California, San Francisco

Language: English

Topic: Nerve injury and regeneration

Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $711