Penile erection is a complex process which involves the nervous system and vascular functions. Activation of central melanocortin (MC) receptors can trigger spontaneous erections, with MC4 emerging as a key receptor subtype. Historically, the pro-erectile properties of melanocortin compounds were recognized as early as the 1950s, but the MC receptor subtypes' roles in this process have only recently become clearer, providing new insights into treating sexual dysfunctions.
King, S.H., Mayorov, A.V., Balse-Srinivasan, P., Hruby, V.J., Vanderah, T.W., and Wessells, H. (2007). Melanocortin receptors, melanotropic peptides and penile erection. Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry.
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King, S.H., Mayorov, A.V., Balse-Srinivasan, P., Hruby, V.J., Vanderah, T.W., and Wessells, H. (2007). Melanocortin receptors, melanotropic peptides and penile erection. Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry.
King, S.H., Mayorov, A.V., Balse-Srinivasan, P., Hruby, V.J., Vanderah, T.W., and Wessells, H. (2007). Melanocortin receptors, melanotropic peptides and penile erection. Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry.
King, S.H., Mayorov, A.V., Balse-Srinivasan, P., Hruby, V.J., Vanderah, T.W., and Wessells, H. (2007). Melanocortin receptors, melanotropic peptides and penile erection. Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry.