Nanotechnology
The application of a topical
agent to achieve tumescence has been achieved through the use of
nanotechnology. Nanoparticles are packaged molecules that are comparable in
size to viruses and can be synthesized to encapsulate biologically active
materials, such as PDE5-I. A gel comprised of nanoparticles applied directly to
the penile shaft to achieve erection has the added benefit of minimizing the side
effect profiles of oral PDE5-I and directed local therapy. In the laboratory,
synthesized nanoparticles are created by putting tadalafil, sialorphin and NO
into a topical gel. According to the study by Han and colleagues, nanoparticles
encapsulating erectogenic agents were applied to the glans and penile shaft of
rats, and ICP was recorded [Han et al. 2010]. The control group consisted of
nanoparticles, without the encapsulated erectogenic agent, applied to glans and
penile shaft in a similar manner. Results revealed an erectile response within
an average of 4.5 minutes after the administration of the topic agent comprised
of NO nanoparticles, with duration of 1.42 minutes [Han et al. 2010]. Sialorphin nanoparticles
achieved a visible erectile response at an average time of 4.5 minutes after
application and lasted for 8 minutes. Tadalafil nanoparticles were able to
achieve an erectile response at one hour only after stimulation of the
cavernosal nerve [Han et al. 2010].
To date, no human trials exist,
but the application of nanoparticles to provide localized therapy for ED may
soon provide yet another option for patients and the nanoparticle delivery
system may revolutionize the localized therapy for ED. Further studies are
needed to fully develop these delivery systems with respect to dosage and
toxicity.
