Abstract
To assess the role of different neuroeffector systems in penile erection, pharmacological agents were tested in vitro using strips of corpus cavernosum tissue from the dog. Alpha-adrenoceptor agonists, K+ or histamine caused concentration-dependent contraction. Tyramine caused a poorly sustained contraction, as did nicotine in some cases. In precontracted preparations, relaxation was caused by beta2-adrenoceptor or muscarinic cholinoceptor agonists, or by vasoactive intestinal peptide. The results suggest that a noradrenergic alpha-adrenoceptor system maintains penile flaccidity in the dog. Penile erection may result from the activation of inhibitory beta2-adrenergic, muscarinic and/or peptidergic systems.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 951-966 |
Number of pages | 16 |
Journal | Pharmacological Research Communications |
Volume | 17 |
Issue number | 10 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 1985 |
Externally published | Yes |