[Animal models for erectile dysfunction researches].

Abstract

Knowledge about the physiology, pathophysiology and pharmacology of human erection is mostly obtained through researches on animals and animal models. However each animal or animal model has its own advantages and limitations and no single animal model completely satisfies all studies. The credibility of the research results primarily lies on the rational selection of animal models. So it is very important to recognize the characteristics of every animal and animal model and select appropriate models for studies. This article is meant for a review: the characteristics of the animals widely used for erectile dysfunction researches, the selection of appropriate animals for researches, and the methods and mechanisms of making the animal models of the clinically ever-present kinds of erectile dysfunction.