Inhibition of tonic contraction of smooth muscle: a new approach to achieve erection dysfunction

Yu Tian Dai, Thomas M. Mills, Ronald W. Lewis, R. Clinton Webb

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

It has shown that vasoconstriction in the cavernosal circulation is mediated by the RhoA/Rho-kinase calcium sensitization pathway. Inhibition of Rho-kinase activity in cavernosal smooth muscle with Y-27632 resulted in an erectile response marked by elevated intracavernosal pressure (ICP) without a significant change in men arterial pressure (MAP). To explain how erection can occurred in the presence of this strong vasoconstrictive signal, we have hypothesized that nitric oxide (NO) induces vasodilation leading to erection by directly inhibiting activity of the RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway, thereby reducing vasoconstriction. Administration of Y-27632 restored erectile function in rat models of hypogonadism and hypertension, suggesting that Rho-kinase inhibition may have potential clinical value. In addition, our results show that topical application of Y-27632 may be an effective mode of treatment for erectile dysfunction.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)391-394
Number of pages4
JournalZhonghua nan ke xue = National journal of andrology
Volume8
Issue number6
StatePublished - Dec 2002
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Inhibition of tonic contraction of smooth muscle: a new approach to achieve erection dysfunction'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this