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Genetics and erectile dysfunction: leveraging early foundations for new discoveries

International Journal of Impotence Research volume 34, pages 252–259 (2022)Cite this article

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Abstract

There is considerable interest in understanding the genetics of erectile dysfunction (ED). Since early twin studies that suggested a genetic component to ED, multiple candidate gene studies have identified genetic variants that may be associated with ED. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have overcome some of the criticism of the candidate gene approach. Two recent GWAS studies have identified loci near SIM1 that may be associated with ED and have renewed interest in the leptin melanocortin signaling pathway. We review the current literature on the genetic basis of ED by highlighting several candidate genes and genetic variants associated with ED.

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Acknowledgements

AWP is a National Institutes of Health (NIH) K08 Scholar supported by a Mentored Career Development Award (K08DK115835-01) from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. This work is also supported in part through a Urology Care Foundation Rising Stars in Urology Award (to AWP). The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the NIH.

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  1. Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA

    Darshan P. Patel, Alexander W. Pastuszak & James M. Hotaling

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Correspondence to James M. Hotaling.

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DPP has nothing to disclosure regarding the material discussed in this article. AWP has the following disclosures: Endo Pharmaceuticals—advisor, speaker, consultant, research and fellowship support; Antares Pharmaceuticals—advisor; Allotrope Medical—advisor; Inherent Biosciences—advisor; Woven Health—founder and leadership position; Vault Health—leadership position. JMH has the following disclosures: Endo Pharmaceuticals—research and fellowship grant; Boston Scientific—fellowship grant; Nanonc, StreamDx, Andro360—leadership position/founder; Turtle Health (consultant); Inherent Biosciences—advisor; Quara Health—advisor.

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Patel, D.P., Pastuszak, A.W. & Hotaling, J.M. Genetics and erectile dysfunction: leveraging early foundations for new discoveries. Int J Impot Res 34, 252–259 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-020-00372-w

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