Isolation and characterization of epithelial cells and fibroblasts from the human penile urethra.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Urethral strictures and hypospadias are common urological conditions for which autologous reconstruction remains challenging. Tissue engineering offers a promising alternative, yet current strategies often rely on heterotopic cell sources, potentially limiting functional integration. Here, we report the first isolation and characterization of epithelial and stromal cells from distinct regions of the human penile urethra: the spongy urethra and the proximal and distal fossa navicularis.

Methods

Cells were isolated from the three regions of the penile urethra in 12 donors. Detailed characterization was performed for 3-4 donors, assessing yield, growth parameters, immunophenotype, and progenitor preservation. We evaluated 3-, 4-, and 6-mm biopsies to determine the

SUBMITTER: Brownell D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12728052 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature