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Published on: August 21, 2012
A promising protein responsible for overactive bladder in ovariectomized mice
Huey-Yi Chen1, Chao-Jung Chen1, Wen-Chi Chen1
1Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, Proteomics Core Laboratory, Research Center for Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Research, and Urology, Sex Hormone Research Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
Ovariectomy in mice alters bladder proteins, including zonula occludens-2 (ZO-2), potentially causing overactive bladder (OAB). Estradiol replacement partially restored ZO-2 levels and bladder function.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Molecular Biology
- Gynecology
Background:
- Ovariectomy (OVX) in mice models postmenopausal overactive bladder (OAB).
- OAB may stem from altered gap junction proteins, as seen in rat models.
- This study investigates cell junction protein changes in OVX mouse bladders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in cell junction protein expression and composition in the bladders of OVX mice.
- To assess the impact of estradiol (E2) replacement on these changes.
- To explore potential molecular mechanisms linking OVX to OAB.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-six female mice were divided into control, OVX, and OVX + E2 groups.
- Cystometry, voiding interval assessment, and proteomic analysis (LC-MS) were performed.
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blot confirmed zonula occludens-2 (ZO-2) expression.
Main Results:
- OVX mice exhibited significantly lower voiding intervals and urothelial thickness.
- 73 differentially expressed proteins were identified in OVX mouse bladders.
- ZO-2 expression was significantly downregulated in OVX mice, with partial restoration in the OVX + E2 group.
Conclusions:
- OVX induces significant changes in bladder protein expression, notably ZO-2.
- These protein alterations are associated with OAB-like symptoms in the OVX mouse model.
- Estradiol replacement shows a potential therapeutic effect on bladder function and ZO-2 levels.
