A review of current progress in gene and stem cell therapy for erectile dysfunction.

摘要

BACKGROUND: Current gene-based strategies for treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) are based on the nitric oxide (NO)/cGMP system; although growth factors, calcium sensitization, and potassium channel expression have been studied. Initial investigations of stem-cell-based therapy have attracted attention. Results of the first gene transfer clinical trial for treatment of ED with maxi-K channels are positive. Moreover, there is progress in gene and stem-cell therapy for the treatment of cardiovascular (CV) diseases. OBJECTIVE: To improve understanding of gene and stem-cell therapy for CV disease, with emphasis on ED. Methods: Review of current literature. RESULTS/CONCLUSION: Treatment and prevention of ED can be improved by the application of CVD gene/cell-based therapy. New discoveries based on gene- and cell-based therapy will lead to new advances in the treatment of ED.