sGC/cGMP Pathway as Target for Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction
Vascular Research Unit
Project 2
sGC/cGMP Pathway as Target for Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction
Description
Erection results from activation of nitrergic nerves releasing NO, activating sGC in smooth muscle cells of corpora cavernosa. This leads to the formation of cGMP and erection. Inhibition of breakdown of cGMP by phosphodiesterase inhibitors is standard treatment for erectile dysfunction, but is unsuccessful in a substantial number of patients (e.g. diabetics). Therefore there is a need for other drugs to help these patients. Considering the importance of the sGC-cGMP pathway in erection, drugs that interfere with this pathway can be of interest such as sGC activators, sGC stimulators and inhibitors of cGMP export. The influence of such drugs on erectile function is investigated.
Funding Ageny
Own research group
Contact
Johan Van de Voorde