Update on Corpus Cavernosum Smooth Muscle Contractile Pathways in Erectile Function: A Role for Testosterone?

Decreased T levels upregulate CCSM contractile signaling. Meanwhile, it downregulates CCSM relaxation pathways synergizing to produce erectile dysfunction (ED). Although some urologists and researchers are still skeptical of the influence of androgens on penile erection, understanding these molecular control mechanisms as well as the influence that androgens have on these pathways should provide new evidence supporting the roles of androgens in EF and enhance the discovery of novel targets for drug development to treat ED. Zhang X, Melman A, and DiSanto ME. Update on corpus cavernosum smooth muscle contractile pathways in erectile function: A role for testosterone? J Sex Med 2011;8:1865-1879.