Pirfenidone improves voiding function by suppressing bladder fibrosis in underactive bladder rats

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Pharmacology
• Fibrosis Research

Background:

• Underactive bladder (UAB) presents complex symptoms and limited treatment options, significantly impacting patient quality of life.
• UAB is characterized by bladder wall hyperplasia, fibrosis, and reduced bladder compliance.
• Pirfenidone, an established anti-fibrotic agent, shows promise for treating fibrotic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of pirfenidone in treating bladder fibrosis.
• To investigate pirfenidone's effects on urinary function in a rat model of UAB.

Main Methods:

• Underactive bladder (UAB) was induced in rats via crushing damage to major pelvic ganglion nerve bundles.
• Pirfenidone was administered orally at doses of 100, 300, or 500 mg/kg every two days for 20 days.
• Bladder weight, fibrosis-related factors, and urinary function were assessed post-treatment.

Main Results:

• Pirfenidone treatment significantly improved urinary function in the UAB rat model.
• The drug reduced bladder weight and suppressed the expression of fibrosis-related factors.
• Pirfenidone demonstrated dose-dependent effects in ameliorating UAB symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Pirfenidone effectively ameliorates bladder fibrosis and improves voiding function in a preclinical UAB model.
• These findings suggest pirfenidone as a potential therapeutic agent for treating underactive bladder.
• Further research into pirfenidone for UAB could lead to new treatment options for patients with incurable UAB.