Common pitfalls in some of the experimental studies in erectile function and dysfunction: a consensus article

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Sexual Medicine
• Physiology

Background:

• Understanding erectile function and dysfunction requires specialized experimental techniques.
• The expanding field of sexual medicine necessitates standardized and competent use of these methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide guidance for scientists, especially early-career researchers, on conducting experiments related to erectile function.
• To ensure appropriate, timely, and competent application of established techniques in sexual medicine research.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive review of published literature on key techniques was performed.
• Topics included intracavernosal pressure measurements, cavernous nerve injury models, and the nitric oxide-cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway.
• Models for hypertension- and smoking-induced erectile dysfunction, along with stem cell applications, were also examined.

Main Results:

• The review establishes a consensus on optimal methodologies for performing various experimental models.
• Potential pitfalls and challenges associated with these techniques are identified and discussed.

Conclusions:

• This article serves as a valuable resource for young scientists entering the field of erectile function research.
• It aims to foster confidence and competence in employing experimental techniques, encouraging further research in sexual medicine.