Gaseous signal molecule hydrogen sulfide and penile erection / 第二军医大学学报

ABSTRACT

Endogenous hydrogen sulfide is the third gaseous signal molecule after nitric oxide and carbon monoxide; it is synthesized through cystathionine- β-synthase and cystathionine-γ-cleavage pathway. Hydrogen sulfide can directly react with the KATP channel, reduce extracellular Ca 2+ influx, and work together with testosterone, nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, relaxing corpus cavernosum smooth muscle and improving diastolic function of blood vessels. It can also inhibit vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, promote apoptosis, and improve vascular remodeling. Therefore, in-depth study of H2 S in the regulating penile erection can provide a new way for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.