Most complex organs in the human body require a well-developed vascular system to function properly. In the penis, this system is especially important. For an erection, blood must fill the cavernous bodies and be retained, providing rigidity.
The team created a hydrogel model consisting of the corpora cavernosa, corpus spongiosum, and tunica albuginea. This allowed them to study key aspects of the penis and its vascular system without experimenting on humans or animals. The model was developed to study erectile dysfunction and Peyronie's disease, in which scar tissue causes painful erections and curvature. It reproduces the filling of the corpora cavernosa with blood, which helps to understand the mechanisms of these diseases.
To test how the model worked, the researchers created an improved version by adding endothelial cells, which line blood vessels. They implanted this artificial tissue into rabbits and pigs with vascular defects in the penis.
After a few weeks, the animals regained erectile function and reproduced without problems.
These results demonstrate the potential of the biomimetic corpus cavernosum for the treatment of penile injuries and advance the clinical application of 3D-printed artificial tissues and organs.
