The role of microRNA in erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most frequently treated sexual dysfunction in men and affects 70% of men over 70. Recently, numerous studies have focused on the pathogenesis of ED and found many causes and several key molecular changes. However, the understanding of the ED mechanism is still limited. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNA molecules. They regulate many physiological and pathological processes, including ED. In this review, we summarize the expression and regulation mechanisms of miRNAs in ED. In ED rats and patients, many miRNAs were found increased or decreased in corpus cavernosum tissues or blood. MiRNAs can regulate erectile function by regulating many processes related to erection, such as regulating nitric oxide synthase activation, endothelial function, smooth muscle cells, and androgen function. In summary, we found that miRNAs play a critical role in ED development. However, there is inadequate direct evidence to reveal the regulatory mechanism. Further studies are required to meet the scientific needs.