Faculty Bibliography

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE:Scientific model systems for physiological evaluation and investigation of pathophysiologies in clitoral function have been limited. The aim was to develop a New Zealand White rabbit clitoral corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cell culture. METHODS:Clitoral corpus cavernosum erectile tissue was harvested and placed in culture. Clitoral smooth muscle cells which migrated out from explants were grown to confluence and subcultured. Characterizations were performed by morphological and biochemical analyses. RESULTS:The cells exhibited typical morphologic characteristics of smooth muscle cells. Indirect immunofluorescence studies confirmed the presence of a-smooth muscle cell actin. Androgen and estrogen receptors were detected by specific antibodies and binding studies. The cells expressed subtypes of TGF-beta receptors. Treatment with 80 pM TGF-beta 1 24 h resulted in induction and/or increased availability of TGF-beta receptors. CONCLUSIONS:An in-vitro cell culture system using rabbit clitoral smooth muscle cells was developed. These smooth muscle cells retain their biochemical and functional integrity. This in-vitro cell culture system may facilitate studies aimed at understanding the molecular basis of female sexual function.

A large ureterocele accompanying a bladder stone was vaporized with a large rollerball electrode, permitting electrohydraulic lithotripsy. Conventional endoscopic incision of this lesion had failed.

Developments of MR imaging of static fluid has led to the emergence of MR urography (MRU) as a potential imaging technique of the urinary system. MRU has been shown to be highly sensitive in the diagnosis of urinary obstruction, defining the severity of dilatation, the site, and in the majority of cases, the cause of obstruction. At the current level of resolution, however, MR cannot consistently demonstrate nonobstructive or small obstructing calculi. Demonstration of perinephric and periuretic edema in obstruction helps in the differentiation of acute from nonacute urinary obstruction. MRU has shown potential in the work-up of urinary disease for which intravenous urography used to be performed, without the hazards of intravenous contrast administration.