Role of folic acid deficiency as a possible risk factor for erectile dysfunction

ABSTRACT

Background: erectile dysfunction [ED] is the persistent inability to attain or maintain an erection. ED affects millions of men worldwide. The pathophysiology of ED includes vasculogenic, neurogenic, hormonal, anatomical, drug-induced and psychogenic causes. Endothelial dysfunction [EDys] is an important pathophysiologic factor underlying vasculogenic erectile dysfunction. The pathogenesis of both EDys and ED are linked through decreased expression and activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase [NOS] which is responsible for formation of Nitric Oxide [NO]. NO is a relaxing factor which plays a major role in activation and maintenance of the erection process