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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Impact of Immune System Activation and Vascular Impairment on Male and Female Sexual Dysfunction

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Author(s):
Calmasini, Fabiano B. [1, 2] ; Klee, Nicole [2] ; Webb, R. Clinton [2] ; Priviero, Fernanda [2]
Total Authors: 4
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Estadual Campinas, Fac Med Sci, Dept Pharmacol, BR-13083881 Campinas, SP - Brazil
[2] Augusta Univ, Med Coll Georgia, Dept Physiol, Augusta, GA - USA
Total Affiliations: 2
Document type: Review article
Source: SEXUAL MEDICINE REVIEWS; v. 7, n. 4, p. 604-613, OCT 2019.
Web of Science Citations: 0
Abstract

Introduction: Male and female sexual dysfunction (SD) is considered a multifactorial condition. Numerous studies have shown the involvement of inflammatory processes in this pathological condition. Sexual intercourse requires healthy and functioning vessels to supply the pelvic region in both males and females, generating penile erection and clitoral and vaginal lubrication, respectively. Cardiovascular diseases and associated risk factors may contribute negatively to pelvic blood flow, possibly through immune system activation. Aim: The study aimed to address the correlation between vascular inflammation driven by immune system activation and SD in males and females. Methods: A literature review was performed to identify articles addressing male and female SD and vascular inflammation. Key words included ``male and female sexual dysfunction,{''} ``vascular inflammation,{''} ``iliac and pudendal arteries dysfunction,{''} ``genitourinary tract,{''} and ``blood flow.{''} Main Outcome Measures: Management of systemic and local inflammation may be a useful alternative to improve SD and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases in the future. Results: Increased levels of cytokines and chemokines have been detected in humans and animals with hypertension, obesity, and diabetic conditions. Chronic activation of the innate immune system, especially by pathogen- or damage-associated molecular patterns, and metabolic-related disorders may act as triggers further contributing to an increased inflammatory condition. Due to the reduced size of vessels, SD and retinal vascular impairments have been shown to be predictive factors for cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, considering that blood flow to the genitalia is essential for sexual function, endothelial dysfunction and vascular remodeling, secondary to chronic immune system activation, may be implicated in male and female vasculogenic SD. Conclusions: Several conditions appear to play a role in SD. In the present review, we have identified a role for the immune system in generating vascular and tissue impairments contributing to erectile dysfunction and female SD. Copyright (C) 2019, International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 16/20592-8 - Participation of toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) in prostate dysfunctions of insulin resistance obese mice
Grantee:Fabiano Beraldi Calmasini
Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor