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Neural Control of Sexual Function
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Kevin E. McKenna, Ph.D.
Department of Physiology and Urology
Ph.D., Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
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My
research focuses on the spinal cord control of autonomic function, with a particular
interest in the neural control of sexual function. This research involves an integrated
approach, using modern neuroanatomical, neurophysiological, biochemical and
pharmacological techniques.
Specific projects include:
- Identification of the somatic and autonomic afferents and efferents innervating pelvic organs, using retrograde tracing techniques.
- Study of the mechanisms of sexual reflexes in both male and female rats using a novel preparation.
- Analysis of the descending control of sexual function using physiological, pharmacological and anatomical techniques.
- Study of the neural control of prostatic secretion and prostatic growth using physiological, pharmacological, anatomical, and biochemical techniques.
- Analysis of the mechanisms of diabetic impotence.
Selected Publications:
McVary KT, Rathnau CH,
McKenna KE 1996 Sexual dysfunction in the diabetic BB/WOR rat: A role of central
neuropathy. American Journal of Physiology (in press).
McKenna KE, Marson L 1996
CNS cell groups involved in the control of the ischiocavernosus and bulbospongiosus
muscles: A transneuronal tracing study using pseudorabies virus. Journal of Comparative
Neurology (in press).
Coolen LM, Allard J, Truitt WA, McKenna KE. Central regulation of ejaculation. Physiol Behav. 2004 Nov 15;83(2):203-15.
McVary KT, McKenna KE. The relationship between erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms: epidemiological, clinical, and basic science evidence. Curr Urol Rep. 2004 Aug;5(4):251-7.
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