Introduction

Numerous conditions exist, both congenital and acquired, that threaten male sexual health through changes in form and/or function. Efforts in penile reconstruction are often limited by poor availability of functionally intact penile tissue. We have previously demonstrated the ability to reconstruct functional corporal tissue via autologous cell-seeded collagen matrix in a rabbit model. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of engineering corporal constructs using cavernosal smooth muscle (SMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) from non-human primates (NHPs) seeded onto 3D acellular corporal collagen matrices._x000D_ _x000D_

Methods

Corpora cavernosa were isolated from NHPs. These specimens were then subjected to an established decellularization process to create acellular corporal collagen matrices. Autologous corporal SMCs and ECs were isolated, expanded in vitro, and seeded onto matrices via a multistep static/dynamic procedure._x000D_

Results

Histologic and immunohistochemical analyses were performed. The corporal construct treated with the TritronX-100 protocol was effectively decellularized based on results of both DAPI (4,6 diamidino 2 phenylindole) staining and DNA assay (< 50 ng dsDNA/mg dry sample weight). Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated highly porous 3D structure and structural integrity. Evenly distributed cellular attachment and phenotype of corporal ECs and SMCs before/after dynamic culture conditioning were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining with anti-von Willebrand factor and anti-alpha smooth muscle actin.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated the feasibility of engineering viable and well-organized corpora cavernosa using tissue from NHPs. This represents an important achievement toward clinical utility for humans. Such technology may have application for congenital anomalies, penile cancer, traumatic penile injury, and selected cases of erectile dysfunction and Peyronies disease._x000D_ _x000D_

Funding

U.S. Department of Defense