Action mechanisms of prolactin and its receptors on penile erection and ejaculation / 中华男科学杂志

Prolactin is a polypeptide hormone which mainly acts on the reproductive system and plays an important role in penile erection and ejaculation. Prolactin receptors have a variety of short forms apart from the classic long form, which are widely expressed in male reproductive glands. High levels of prolactin can induce erectile dysfunction and results in secondary male infertility, which are mainly associated with the inhibition of dopaminergic activity, reduction of the testosterone level, and contraction of the cavernous smooth muscle. Moreover, low levels of prolactin can result in ejaculatory dysfunction. This article updates the views on the expressions of prolactin receptors in the male reproductive system, the effects of prolactin on penile erection and ejaculation, and its action mechanisms.

DAZL and male infertility: an update / 中华男科学杂志

DAZL, a member of the DAZ family, plays a key role in human spermatogenesis. It regulates the promoter via genetic modification, especially DNA methylation, promoting the transcription of DAZL. Besides, the relation of DAZL SNPs with male infertility has been a hot spot of research for many years. It is deduced that local and ethnic factors may be associated with the failure of spermatogenesis. This article presents an overview on the results of recent studies, changes in the DNA methylation of DAZL in spermatogenesis, and the association of DAZL SNPs with male infertility, aiming to provide a new theoretical basis and clinical strategy for the treatment of male infertility.