Fig. 5

Gene modification improved the effects of ASCs on ameliorating corpus cavernosum smooth muscle (CCSM) functions. IHC (A) and western blot (B) revealed the higher expression of myocardin in rats with gene-transfected ASCs. C A thinner smooth muscle layer and discontinuous and disordered cavernous sinuses were found in all diabetic rats, with more severe changes in the PBS group. D In the Masson’s trichrome staining images, the ASC and gene-modified ASC groups retained the SM-to-collagen ratio compared with the PBS group, which is shown in the statistical graph (E). F The protein expression levels of the smooth muscle markers α-SMA and calponin, fibrosis marker collagen I, anti-apoptosis factor Bcl-2, apoptosis molecule Bax, and cleaved-caspase3 were detected. Scale bar = 200 μm. Animals tested n = 10. ***p < 0.001