Attempting to improve male sexual performance, two Boston University professors recently participated in a study of arginase, the enzyme that allows physical arousal to occur.
Abdul-Megib Traish and Noel Kim, professors in BU’s Department of Urology, worked under David Christianson, head of the University of Pennsylvania team that has been studying the effect of the enzyme on sexual dysfunction.
The study also collaborated with researchers from Temple University, the University of Pittsburgh, the Wistar Institute and Universite Paris V.
“This is the first publication … that demonstrates that arginase is present in human tissue and the inhibition of that arginase can cause a smooth muscle relaxation, which is a requirement for erection,” Christianson said.
Arginase is a natural amino acid that, if levels are too high, prevents individuals from reaching smooth muscle relaxation, a necessary phenomenon for physical arousal to take place. Researchers developed a molecule that can bind to arginase, making it docile.
According to Kim, arginase’s role has previously been studied in functions with the liver, but it has not been explored in this perspective before.
“It’s important in elucidating the finding and discovering why this enzyme works and what it does,” Kim said. “Now, we can apply findings to certain disease states, such as the erection.”
Christianson’s team began work with arginase 10 years ago and contacted BU’s research team two years ago after a medical conference mentioned the University of Pennsylvania’s Urology Department. The medical school is regarded internationally as a leader in the study of sexual dysfunctions.
Boston University researchers tested on rabbit and human penile tissues whether an arginase inhibitor compound would release nitric acid and lead to smooth muscle relaxation. The results proved that it did, and an independent research team from the University of Pittsburgh echoed the results in human tissue.
The research continues to progress, even after two publications have already been released. Christianson is now trying to apply for a grant to test a new inhibitor.
This research sheds new light on biochemistry. “We’re learning a new player in the pathway in smooth muscle relaxation,” Christianson said.
In addition, potential clinical application of such an inhibitor exists, although it has a long way to go.
“This is just the first step in the process,” Christianson said. “You’re looking at a 7-12 year process before it becomes available on the market, and rightfully so because it has to go through so many steps and be tested repeatedly.”
The drug will be similar to Viagra, which blocks enzymes that slow essential parts in the pathway. However, Viagra works several steps later than an arginase inhibiting compound.
Viagra’s is ineffective in 30 percent of men and much less effective in women. Researchers said they are aiming to develop a compound that will lead to a more effective smooth muscle relaxation in both sexes.
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