Brain structural and functional differences in anejaculation and sleep disorders: A functional magnetic resonance
Qiushi Liu1, Ming Wang2, Dangwei Peng1,3
1The Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
Andrology
|July 15, 2025
Summary
This study reveals brain structural and functional differences in individuals with anejaculation (AE) and sleep disorders (SDs). These findings offer new insights into the neurophysiological links between AE and SDs for potential therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sleep Medicine
- Urology
Background:
- Sleep disorders (SDs) are linked to ejaculatory dysfunctions.
- Neurophysiological mechanisms connecting anejaculation (AE) and SDs are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate brain pathways linking SDs and AE.
- Compare brain activity in AE patients, AE with SDs patients, and healthy controls (HCs).
Main Methods:
- Utilized resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI).
- Analyzed fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (fALFF), regional homogeneity (ReHo), voxel-based morphometry (VBM), and functional connectivity (FC).
- Compared three groups: AE patients (n=21), AE with SDs patients (AESD, n=20), and HCs (n=18).
Main Results:
- Found significant differences in fALFF in the medial superior frontal gyrus and left middle occipital gyrus.
- ReHo analysis showed group differences in the left middle occipital gyrus, left superior parietal lobe, and left middle temporal gyrus.
- Observed distinct cerebellar area 7b volumes in the AE group and altered FC signals in the AESD group.
Conclusions:
- Rs-fMRI identified structural and functional brain differences across the studied groups.
- This research is the first to explore potential connections between SDs and AE.
- Findings may inform future therapeutic interventions for comorbid SDs and AE.
