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The neuroanatomy of erection in men is not well defined. Recently, we isolated successfully the cavernous nerves for acute and chronic neurostimulation to induce penile erection in dogs and monkeys. We then investigated the anatomy of these nerves in humans by cadaveric dissection and serial histologic sectioning. Our experience in tracing the spinal nuclei responsible for vesical and urethral function by transportation of horseradish peroxidase enabled us to explore the location and organi;ation of the spinal center for erection. Thus, systemic knowledge of the neuroanatomy of erection was accumulated. The spinal nuclei for control of erection are located in the intermediolateral gray matter at the Sl to S3 and Tl2 to L3 levels in dogs, and the S2 to S4 and TlO to L2 levels in humans. From these sacral nuclei axons issue ventrally and join the axons of the nuclei for the bladder and rectum to form the sacral …