MicroRNA‐205 is associated with diabetes mellitus‐induced erectile dysfunction via down‐regulating the androgen receptor

As a major class of regulatory genes in majority metazoans, microRNAs (miRs) play an important role in various diseases including diabetes mellitus (DM). Lack of androgens has previously been associated with DM‐induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). In addition, the biological functioning of androgen is mediated by androgen receptor (AR). Herein, we sought to investigate whether miRs participate in AR‐associated DMED. Sprague‐Dawlay rats were employed to establish DMED models. After modelling, levels of miR‐205 and AR in their cavernous bodies were measured. The relationship between miR‐205 and AR was verified using a dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay. The underlying regulatory mechanisms of miR‐205 were investigated in concert with the treatment of mimics or inhibitors of miR‐205, or AR overexpression in the cavernous smooth muscle cells (CSMCs) isolated from rats with DMED. Meanwhile, the effects of miR‐205 and AR on cell proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated using MTT assay and flow cytometry respectively. Rats with DMED presented with increased miR‐205 and decreased AR levels in the cavernous bodies. AR was identified as a target gene of miR‐205. Down‐regulation of miR‐205 or up‐regulation of AR could increase proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of CSMCs in addition to improvements in the erectile functioning of rats with DMED. In summary, miR‐205 may contribute to the pathogenesis of DMED via down‐regulation of AR expressions.