title: The supraspinal network in the control of erection.
abstract: Penile erection is a complex event controlled by vascular, hormonal and neuronal systems. The neuronal system involved in erection is often divided into spinal and supraspinal networks. It is generally accepted that the spinal system directly controls erection and that the supraspinal network modulates this control mechanism through different ascending and descending pathways. In contrast to the spinal control of erection, relatively little is known about the supraspinal network. In the present review, the authors outline the supraspinal network involved in the control of penile erection. Firstly, the brain regions reported to be involved in erection are described and the brain circuit of erection is outlined. Subsequently, the neuromediators involved in erection are summarised. Finally, these data are discussed in the light of therapeutic possibilities in the management of erectile dysfunction by targeting the supraspinal system.
authors.affiliation: University Hospital Maastricht, Department of Neurosurgery, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands. y.temel@np.unimaas.nl
authors.forename: Yasin
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Temel
authors.forename: Sepehr
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Hafizi
authors.forename: Emile
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Beuls
authors.forename: Veerle
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Visser-Vandewalle
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001921:Brain / Q000502:physiology*; D007172:Erectile Dysfunction / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000494:pharmacology; D010410:Penile Erection / Q000502:physiology*
chemical_list: D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents