Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation via the hippocampal brain‐derived neurotrophic factor–tyrosine kinase receptor B pathway to affect sexual behavior and neuroplasticity in rapid ejaculation rats

Abstract

BackgroundPremature ejaculation (PE) is the most prevalent sexual dysfunction among men. Eejaculation involves a complex nervous mechanism in which the ejaculatory centers play a key role in modulating sperm emission. Although treatment possibilities span from psychotherapy to pharmacological approaches, results show inconsistent efficacy. In this context, the emergence of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) as a non‐invasive neuromodulatory approach represents a compelling avenue for potential therapeutic exploration.ObjectiveTo investigate whether high‐frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation can modulate the ejaculatory behavior of rats with rapid ejaculation by altering neurotransmitter levels and neuroplasticity in the hippocampus.MethodsRats have been screened for rapid ejaculation by observing behavioral indices of mating, and subsequently divided into two groups. The intervention group was administered with a 10 Hz rTMS stimulation, whereas the control group received a sham procedure. Upon the delivery of rTMS, we investigated ejaculation latency (EL), the hippocampal 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) concentration, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), synaptophysin (SYN), and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) expressions, as well as BDNF‐receptor tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB) pathway upregulation.ResultsAfter 14 days, EL was increased in the intervention group compared with the control group. 5‐HT concentration in the hippocampal region was increased, and high‐frequency rTMS activated the BDNF and TrkB pathways, including phosphorylation of cAMP response element‐binding protein (CREB), and upregulated the transcription and protein expression of SYN, and PSD95.ConclusionRTMS upregulates BDNF, SYN, and PSD95 expression through activation of the BDNF–TrkB pathway and increases brain 5‐hydroxytryptamine thereby regulating neuroplasticity and improving ejaculation.

Recent Research Progress on the Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in the Treatment of Vascular Cognitive Impairment

“… 25 Conversely, TMS was also able to increase the level of BDNF in the hippocampus, which, as a critical regulator of synaptic plasticity, plays a vital role in neuronal growth and survival, as well as the enhancement of brain function. 26 …”

“…25 Conversely, TMS was also able to increase the level of BDNF in the hippocampus, which, as a critical regulator of synaptic plasticity, plays a vital role in neuronal growth and survival, as well as the enhancement of brain function. 26 TMS activates the brain regions associated with specific cognitive tasks through customized stimulation protocols, promoting synaptic plasticity in these regions and enabling them to participate more effectively in mental activities. This strategy significantly supports cognitive function and offers a practical pathway for treating cognitive impairment.…”