According to American scientists, using gene transfer therapy for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) demonstrated very promising results in the first human research of the technique.
In contrast to gene therapy, gene transfer does not cause any alteration of the DNA or genetic code of cells. Instead, small pieces of DNA reach the nuclei of cells, making them improve the production of certain proteins that help relax smooth muscle cells. These kinds of cells can be found in the penis. Relaxing the smooth muscle cells makes it possible for the penis to fill with blood and become erect.
The research of eleven men with erectile dysfunction revealed that the gene transfer therapy was secure and well-tolerated. Improvements in erectile function were sustained through the 24 weeks of the research. Today, the results were published online in the journal Human Gene Therapy.
