MOLECULAR APPROACH TO PREMATURE EJACULATION: A PILOT STUDY ON S1P SERUM LEVELS AND S1PR1, S1PR2, S1PR3 POLYMORPHISMS

Abstract

Objective: Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and its receptors are involved in various sexual functions, particularly in smooth muscle regulation and vascular responses. However, the role of S1P and its receptors in premature ejaculation (PE) remains unclear. This study investigates the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the S1PR1, S1PR2, and S1PR3 genes and plasma S1P levels in individuals with PE. Materials and Methods: The study included 100 individuals with PE and 100 healthy controls recruited from urology and psychiatry clinics. DNA was isolated from blood samples, and PCR was used to identify SNPs in the S1PR1 (rs2038366), S1PR2 (rs56357614), and S1PR3 (rs7022797) genes. Plasma S1P levels were measured using ELISA. Results: A significant association was observed between the heterozygous GT genotype of the S1PR1 gene and an increased risk of PE (OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.215–4.168, p = 0.0099). No significant associations were found between S1PR2 or S1PR3 polymorphisms and PE. Plasma S1P levels were significantly lower in the PE group (median 253.25 ng/L) compared to the control group (median 430.82 ng/L) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: S1PR1 gene polymorphism and reduced plasma S1P levels may be linked to the pathophysiology of PE. In contrast, S1PR2 and S1PR3 do not appear to be associated. Further research with larger samples is needed to confirm these findings.