TRPM8 Channel Activation Causes Relaxation in Pudendal Artery: Could TRPM8 Channel Be a Target to Improve Diabetic Erectile Dysfunction?

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases. The incidence and prevalence of diabetes have been increasing over the years. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common and underestimated complications of diabetes. Previous studies have shown that TRPM8 activation triggers relaxation of internal pudendal arteries (IPA) with increased sensitivity in the hypertensive rats. Despite the correlation between ED and diabetes, research on the role of TRPM8 channels in the IPA in diabetic condition still needs to be elucidated. We hypothesized that preserved TRPM8 channels function in diabetic mice could be a therapeutic target for the treatment of ED.