Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) is a cytotoxic agent of macrophages, a messenger molecule of neurons, and a vasodilator produced by endothelial cells. NO synthase, the synthetic enzyme for NO, was localized to rat penile neurons innervating the corpora cavernosa and to neuronal plexuses in the adventitial layer of penile arteries. Small doses of NO synthase inhibitors abolished electrophysiologically induced penile erections. These results establish NO as a physiologic mediator of erectile function.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Amino Acid Oxidoreductases / antagonists & inhibitors
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Amino Acid Oxidoreductases / biosynthesis
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Animals
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Arginine / analogs & derivatives
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Arginine / pharmacology
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Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
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Male
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Nerve Fibers / metabolism
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Nitric Oxide Synthase
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Nitric Oxide*
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Nitroarginine
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Penile Erection / drug effects
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Penile Erection / physiology*
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Penis / metabolism
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Rats
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Urethra / metabolism
Substances
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Nitroarginine
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Nitric Oxide
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Arginine
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Nitric Oxide Synthase
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Amino Acid Oxidoreductases