Scientists at Kaiser Permanente in California may have discovered a genetic risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). Risk factors such as drinking, smoking, and obesity are still associated with ED. However, for many men, losing weight and quitting smoking or drinking does not resolve the problem. Finding a genetic link may help scientists identify new treatment options in the future.
What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. ED is a common disorder, affecting approximately 50% of men between the ages of 40 and 70. It can have a significant negative impact on quality of life for both the person experiencing ED and their partner.
This new research suggests there may be a genetic connection to erectile dysfunction. It may also support future research into treatments that target specific genes involved in inherited erectile dysfunction.
Study Finds a Potential Genetic Risk Factor for Erectile Dysfunction
Results of the study, which evaluated data on more than 250,000 men in the U.S. and the UK, were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in June 2018.
Researchers divided the participants into four groups, ranging from men who reported always being able to get an erection to men who reported never being able to get an erection.
Men who reported problems with ED had higher odds of having a “T-risk allele,” or a genetic variant that affects a gene called SIM1.
The Role of the SIM1 Gene in Erectile Dysfunction
The “T-risk allele” is not a gene itself, but it affects a gene called SIM1. The SIM1 gene is part of the melanocortin system, which has been linked to weight regulation and sexual function.
The SIM1 gene regulates hormones that are important for sexual function. Researchers do not yet completely understand how the “T-risk allele” affects the SIM1 gene. However, men who had the allele were more likely to experience erectile dysfunction.
Identifying genetic factors associated with ED may help researchers better understand why some men develop erectile dysfunction and potentially lead to new treatment approaches in the future.
Current Medications for Erectile Dysfunction
Currently, one of the most common types of prescription medication used to treat ED is phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These medications include sildenafil, vardenafil, and tadalafil.
PDE5 inhibitors help relax penile tissue, allowing blood to enter the penis and produce an erection. However, these medications primarily manage the symptoms of erectile dysfunction and provide a temporary solution.
Patients who want to remain sexually active may need to continue using these medications as directed by their healthcare provider. Gene therapy may eventually offer another treatment approach, but research, development, and regulatory approval could take considerable time.
Stem Cell Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction
At the Stem Cells Transplant Institute, we provide stem cell therapy for erectile dysfunction. The Stem Cells Transplant Institute uses adult autologous stem cells as part of its approach to treating erectile dysfunction.
Research into stem cell therapy for erectile dysfunction has reported potential improvements in several measures of erectile function.
Potential Benefits of Stem Cell Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction
Research has shown that stem cell therapy in patients with erectile dysfunction resulted in:
- Improved rigidity
- Improved erections
- Recovery of the ability to achieve and maintain an erection in some patients
- Improved erectile hardness scores
- Improved scores on the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)
These findings have contributed to continued research into the potential role of regenerative medicine in erectile dysfunction.
How Stem Cells May Support Erectile Function
Cavernous smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells are thought to play an important role in achieving and maintaining an erection.
Transplanted stem cells can respond to signals from the surrounding cellular environment. They may interact with neighboring cells and release cytokines, growth factors, and extracellular matrix molecules that can influence tissue responses.
For erectile dysfunction, researchers believe transplanted stem cells may differentiate into certain cell types, including cavernous smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells. They may also influence the function of existing cells through signaling and other biological mechanisms.
This area of regenerative medicine continues to be studied as researchers work to better understand how stem cells may support erectile function.
Erectile Dysfunction Symptoms Stem Cell Therapy May Address
At the Stem Cells Transplant Institute, treatment may help improve symptoms associated with erectile dysfunction, including:
- Difficulty getting an erection
- Difficulty keeping an erection
- Reduced sexual desire
- Depression
- Stress or anxiety
Erectile dysfunction can affect more than sexual function. It can also influence emotional well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life.
At the Stem Cells Transplant Institute, we want to provide you with a regenerative medical strategy focused on improving your sexual health, overall health, and quality of life.
Contact us today to learn more about stem cell therapy for erectile dysfunction and discuss your treatment options.
Reference:
Eric Jorgenson, Navneet Matharu, et al., Genetic variation in the SIM1 locus is associated with erectile dysfunction,PNAS published ahead of print October 8, 2018 http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2018/10/02/1809872115.full
