Researchers have identified a genetic link to erectile dysfunction

Good news may be on the horizon for men who suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED).  A study published in the U.S. journal, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, has identified a genetic variant that is partially responsible for men who struggle in the bedroom with achieving an erection.

Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to develop or maintain an erection during sex. While it is normal to experience it now and then, ED is characterized by a regular occurrence which can take a toll on a person’s sex life, relationship, and self-image.

This is why this new study offers hope for all men with ED. Researchers have located a specific place in the human genome that raises the risk of ED. The new study has found that variations in a specific genetic locus near the SIM1 is a risk factor for ED. This study helps to point a new direction for ED that could help identify other key genetic variants that trigger the disease and lead to investigations to better understand the precise mechanism by which they operate. Because of these findings, new, genetic-based therapies and treatments could be developed for the nearly 50% of men who don’t respond to current treatments.

Past twin studies have shown that genetic factors do account for about 30% of the risk for ED but until now, no specific loci has been identified. By identifying the SIMI locus as a risk factor for ED, this gives scientists what they have been looking for after many years of research.  It appears to finally provide that there is a genetic component to this condition.

This study was able to identify the locus through a GWAS of 36,649 men from a Kaiser Permanente database.  A spot on chromosome 6 was identified as being linked with ED which was confirmed in data from 222,358 men from the UK Biobank.

Erectile dysfunction has many other risk factors besides a genetic component.  These risk factors include smoking, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. What is surprising is that the region in the human genome in which this gene was identified acts independently of these known risk factors. In other words, this genetic location appears to act specifically on sexual function.

Impotence is a common problem for men and is also increasingly prevalent with age. A 2007 study found that an estimated 18 million men in the U.S. had this condition. An actual figure is hard to determine due to unclear diagnostic criteria and underreporting.

Currently, treatments for ED mainly resort to various ED prescribed oral medications or possibly the option of surgery.  Oral medications do not work for every man and they may have side effects like headaches, muscle pain, and infections. If the source of the problem is believed to be psychological, such as anxiety issue, men may be recommended sessions with a licensed therapist.

Until scientists do more studies on this identified gene and develop new ways to treat ED, the best way to reduce ED is to follow a healthy lifestyle by getting in regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight, and avoid smoking and use of illegal drugs.