Raf/MEK/ERK1/2信号通路与阴茎勃起功能关系的研究进展

Raf/MEK/ERK1/2 singaling pathway and penile erection

阴茎勃起功能受海绵体平滑肌舒张功能的调控。在细胞外信号调节激酶1/2(ERK1/2)信号通路研究过程中人们认识到Raf/MEK/ERK1/2信号通路与海绵体平滑肌及内皮系统功能关系密切。ERK1/2信号主要通过一氧化氮合酶(NOS)的磷酸化作用参与阴茎勃起功能的调控。目前认为,ERK1/2在勃起过程中磷酸化抑制内皮性NOS(eNOS)活性降低阴茎海绵体平滑肌(CCSMC)舒张及阴茎勃起功能,但其磷酸化抑制的作用位点尚不清楚。在CCSMC及内皮细胞中,ERK1/2信号与其他信号通路之间的相互作用从而调控阴茎勃起功能。本文总结了近年以来Raf/MEK/ERK1/2信号通路的研究进展,阐述其在勃起功能中的作用机制及各信号通路之间的相互作用,为进一步探索阴茎勃起过程的分子机制奠定基础。

Penile erection is regulated by the relaxation of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells（CCSMCs）.It has been recognized that the Ras/MEK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway is closely related to the functions of CCSMCs and endothelial cells,and it is involved in the regulation of penile erection,mainly via phosphorylation of NO synthase.ERK1/2 phosphorylates,inhibits eNOS activity,and thus reduces the relaxation of CCSMCs and penile erection.But the site of phosphorylation is not yet clear.In CCSMCs and endothelial cells,the ERK1/2 pathway interacts with other cascades and regulates the erectile function of the penis.This article presents an overview of the researches on the ERK1/2 signaling cascade,its regulatory role and its interaction with other signaling pathways in penile erection.