Mechanism of action

Dicot Pharma is continuously working to map the details of LIB-01’s mechanism of action.

Findings in nerve and vascular structures

An erection occurs in response to sexual stimulation, where a dramatic increase in arterial blood flow to the penis is essential and must be accompanied by relaxation of the erectile tissue. Everything is under neural command. 

By analyzing gene expression* in anatomical structures, we have found that LIB-01 affects the nerve and vascular structures that work together to create an erection. The change in gene expression may explain LIB-01’s long-lasting effect, which continues even after the substance has left the body.

Findings in the melanocortin system

The body’s melanocortin system regulates several functions, such as sexual function and energy metabolism. The system includes the MC4 receptor, which is involved in erectile function by modulating nerve signals in the brain and spinal cord. MC4R also plays an important role in regulating hunger, satiety, and energy expenditure.

LIB-01 has a positive effect on erectile function by enhancing MC4R signaling. This effect is due to LIB-01 increasing the gene expression of both MC4R itself and its natural agonist that activates the receptor. This distinguishes LIB-01 from synthetic peptide agonists, which do not increase receptor expression and can only act on the MC4Rs already present in the body.

This differentiates LIB-01 from today’s erectile dysfunction drugs and supports the hypothesis that LIB-01 can also treat men who do not respond to current medications. It opens the door to an entirely new treatment approach for erectile dysfunction.

*Gene expression is a naturally occurring process whereby information from genes is transferred to the cell's structures and functions.