Uncovering the Hidden Sensations of the Penis and Clitoris After 150 Years

Researchers have discovered that specific nerve cells in the penis and clitoris, known as Krause corpuscles, detect vibrations and trigger sexual behaviors like erections in mice. These findings could pave the way for new treatments for erectile dysfunction and help restore sexual function in people with lower-body paralysis. The study revealed that these nerve cells are highly concentrated in the clitoris and are essential for normal mating behaviors. This research opens up new avenues for understanding sexual sensitivity and could lead to significant medical advancements.

Key Insights

1. Scientists have discovered that specific nerve cells in the genitals of mice respond to vibrations, leading to sexual behaviors like erections. This finding could potentially lead to new treatments for sexual dysfunction in humans.

2. The study revealed that these nerve cells, called Krause corpuscles, are present in similar numbers in both male and female mice. However, they are much more concentrated on the clitoris than on the penis, which may explain why the clitoris is particularly sensitive.

3. The research shows that these nerve cells are crucial for normal mating behavior in mice and develop just before sexual maturity. This suggests that sexual function relies on a complex interplay of nerve cells that form relatively late in development.