Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Protein Expression, Localization, and Activity in the Penis of the Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rat

Abstract

In the penis of the alloxan-induced diabetic rat, eNOS protein expression and synthetic activity were reduced compared with the normal rat penis, independent of testosterone influence and in the absence of significant erectile tissue degenerative changes. These eNOS effects apparently preceded nNOS effects. Full elucidation of the possible mechanisms affecting eNOS function in the diabetic rat penis requires further investigation.