Endocrine disruptor bisphenol A is implicated in urinary voiding dysfunction in male mice

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Urology
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Estrogens and androgens are implicated in male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and benign prostate enlargement.
• Human exposure to environmental estrogens is widespread, but associated urologic health risks in men remain largely uncharacterized.
• Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical linked to male urogenital malformations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of Bisphenol A (BPA) combined with testosterone (T) on the urinary voiding behavior of adult male mice.
• To assess the impact of BPA and estradiol on bladder function and morphology in the context of male LUTS.

Main Methods:

• Adult male mice were subcutaneously implanted with slow-release pellets containing BPA or estradiol-17β (E2), along with testosterone (T).
• Urinary voiding behavior was monitored noninvasively for 1 month before and 4 months after treatment.
• Bladder volume and mass were evaluated post-euthanasia.

Main Results:

• Mice treated with testosterone and BPA (T+BPA) exhibited increased bladder volume and mass compared to untreated controls.
• After 4 months of T+BPA treatment, a majority of mice developed voiding dysfunction, characterized by droplet voiding or intermediate patterns.
• Voiding dysfunction was observed in BPA-treated mice, manifesting at later time points.

Conclusions:

• Treatment with BPA or estradiol induces voiding dysfunction in male mice, with effects becoming apparent over time.
• The endocrine disruptor BPA is implicated as a contributing factor to the development of male LUTS.
• These findings underscore the potential urologic health risks associated with environmental estrogen exposure in men.