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Antenatal biological models in the characterization and research of congenital lower urinary tract disorders
Kevin Xi Cao1, Nathalie Jane Milmoe2, Peter Malcom Cuckow3
1Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK; Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Great Ormond Street, London WC1N 3JH, UK.
Insights
Research on congenital lower urinary tract disorders like posterior urethral valves (PUV) and bladder exstrophy (BE) needs better animal models. This study reviews current models and suggests future improvements for enhanced understanding and therapies.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Developmental Biology
- Animal Models
Background:
- Congenital lower urinary tract disorders impact bladder function and kidney health.
- Current treatments often fall short, necessitating research for novel therapies.
- Animal models are crucial for advancing research alongside in-vitro and clinical studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing animal models for posterior urethral valves (PUV) and bladder exstrophy (BE).
- To guide researchers in selecting appropriate animal models for specific research questions.
- To identify areas for future refinement of PUV and BE animal models.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current animal models for PUV and BE.
- Analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of existing models.
- Discussion of considerations for model selection in research.
Main Results:
- Current animal models for PUV and BE have limitations.
- Specific research questions necessitate careful selection of the most suitable model.
- Key considerations for model utility and applicability were identified.
Conclusions:
- Improved animal models are essential for advancing the understanding of PUV and BE.
- Future research should focus on refining existing models and developing new ones.
- Enhanced models will facilitate the development of more effective treatments for these rare conditions.
Abstract:
Congenital lower urinary tract disorders are a family of diseases affecting both urinary storage and voiding as well as upstream kidney function. Current treatments include surgical reconstruction but many children still fail to achieve urethral continence or progress to chronic kidney disease. New therapies can only be achieved through undertaking research studies to enhance our understanding of congenital lower urinary tract disorders. Animal models form a critical component of this research, a corner of the triangle composed of human in-vitro studies and clinical research. We describe the current animal models for two rare congenital bladder disorders, posterior urethral valves (PUV) and bladder exstrophy (BE). We highlight important areas for researchers to consider when deciding which animal model to use to address particular research questions and outline the strengths and weaknesses of current models available for PUV and BE. Finally, we present ideas for refining animal models for PUV and BE in the future to stimulate future researchers and help them formulate their thinking when working in this field.
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