Adrenergic alpha receptors outnumber beta receptors in human penile corpus cavernosum

Using specific adrenergic receptor binding assays, we characterized both alpha and beta adrenergic receptors in human penile corpus cavernosum tissue. The density of alpha adrenergic receptors in corporal tissue was found to be almost ten times greater than the density of beta adrenergic receptors. Our results are compatible with studies that suggest an important role for adrenergic innervation in penile erection.