Application of Stem Cell in Human Erectile Dysfunction – A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Erectile dysfunction is a health problem that arises from various conditions and causes an impaired quality of life with a significant health burden. Regenerative and stem cell therapies are some of the potential treatments for erectile dysfunction. This study aimed to review the available information in the literature regarding the use of stem cells in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Methods: This study is a systematic review conducted based on the PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane, and DOAJ databases. Literature searching was conducted in English and included articles from 2000 to 2020. Results: The result was a total of 318 articles. Following the elimination process, 9 articles remained in the final analysis. The analyzed studies included 164 patients with erectile dysfunction with various medical conditions. Several stem cell types have been used for treating erectile dysfunction, including mesenchymal stem cell, placental matrix-derived stem cell, mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosome, adipose-derived stem cell, bone marrow-derived mononuclear stem cell, and umbilical cord blood stem cell. Generally, stem cell therapy showed a good efficacy and safety profile, although not enough studies on the protocol, dosage, and mechanism of action. Conclusion: Stem cell therapy has a good therapeutic potential in erectile dysfunction, the available data from the literature could be the base of usage of stem cells in the treatment of erectile dysfunction although need more research for broader usage.