Organ cross talk modulates pelvic pain
Charles N Rudick1, Michael C Chen, Anne K Mongiu
1Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 East Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
Summary
Interstitial cystitis (IC) causes pelvic pain via bladder inflammation. This study shows bladder inflammation triggers pain, which can be worsened by colon signals, suggesting diet may help manage IC pain.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Neuroscience
- Pain Research
Background:
- Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic bladder condition causing pelvic pain.
- The exact cause of IC is unknown, but it's linked to neurogenic inflammation.
- Dietary changes can impact IC symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the development of pelvic pain in a murine neurogenic cystitis model.
- To explore the relationship between bladder inflammation and pelvic pain.
- To understand organ cross-talk in pelvic pain mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Neurogenic cystitis was induced in mice using pseudorabies virus (PRV).
- Pelvic pain was assessed using von Frey filament testing.
- Lidocaine was used to test pain origins (bladder, colon, uterus).
- Inflammation and vascular permeability were measured in bladders and colons.
Main Results:
- PRV-infected mice developed progressive pelvic pain.
- Pelvic pain was reduced by lidocaine in the bladder or colon, but not the uterus.
- Bladders showed inflammation and increased vascular permeability; colons did not.
- Colon capsaicin exacerbated bladder-induced pain, indicating organ cross-talk.
Conclusions:
- Bladder inflammation is a key factor in neurogenic cystitis-induced pelvic pain.
- Visceral input from other organs, like the colon, can modulate pelvic pain.
- These findings support mechanisms for how dietary changes may alleviate IC symptoms.
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