[Raf/MEK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway and penile erection].
Penile erection is regulated by the relaxation of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs). It has been recognized that the Ras/MEK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway is closely related to the functions of CCSMCs and endothelial cells, and it is involved in the regulation of penile erection, mainly via phosphorylation of NO synthase. ERK1/2 phosphorylates, inhibits eNOS activity, and thus reduces the relaxation of CCSMCs and penile erection. But the site of phosphorylation is not yet clear. In CCSMCs and endothelial cells, the ERK1/2 pathway interacts with other cascades and regulates the erectile function of the penis. This article presents an overview of the researches on the ERK1/2 signaling cascade, its regulatory role and its interaction with other signaling pathways in penile erection.
Xu
Chen-Xiang
CX
Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China. xuchx0610@163.com
Jiang
Rui
R
D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D048052:Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3 / Q000378:metabolism*; D010410:Penile Erection / Q000502:physiology*; D010413:Penis / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D015398:Signal Transduction; D048490:raf Kinases / Q000378:metabolism*
D048490:raf Kinases; D048052:Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3