Related Experiment Videos
alpha1-Adrenergic mechanism in diabetic urethral dysfunction in rats
Kazumasa Torimoto1, Yoshihiko Hirao, Hiroko Matsuyoshi
1Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213-3221, USA.
The Journal of Urology
|February 16, 2005
Summary
Diabetes mellitus causes urethral dysfunction in rats, affecting both smooth and striated muscles. Targeting alpha1-adrenoceptors may help treat this condition by reducing urethral pressure.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus (DM) is linked to various complications, including pelvic floor dysfunction.
- Urethral dysfunction can significantly impact quality of life in patients with DM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of alpha1-adrenoceptor mechanisms in diabetic rats with urethral dysfunction.
- To assess the impact of diabetes on urethral smooth and striated muscle function.
Main Methods:
- Rats were induced with diabetes using streptozotocin.
- Urethral relaxation mechanisms were evaluated by measuring intravesical and urethral perfusion pressure (UPP).
- Effects of alpha-bungarotoxin and terazosin (an alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonist) were assessed.
Main Results:
- Diabetic rats exhibited significantly higher thresholds for urethral relaxation and higher UPP nadir compared to normal rats.
- Striated muscle activity was reduced in diabetic rats.
- Terazosin administration normalized UPP nadir and reduced relaxation thresholds in diabetic rats.
Conclusions:
- Diabetes induces both smooth and striated muscle dysfunction in the urethra.
- Alpha1-adrenoceptor inhibition shows potential for treating diabetic urethral dysfunction by reducing UPP nadir and fluctuation.