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Radiation-induced changes in neuropeptides in the rat urinary bladder
1Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, University College London, United Kingdom.
The Journal of Urology
|December 1, 1996
Summary
X-ray irradiation significantly increased nerve density in rat bladders, particularly for neuropeptide Y (NPY), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and substance P (SP). This suggests axonal sprouting may contribute to radiation injury symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Neuroscience
- Radiology
Background:
- Radiation therapy can cause significant side effects in pelvic organs.
- Understanding changes in bladder innervation post-irradiation is crucial for managing complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate alterations in the innervation of rat urinary bladders after x-ray irradiation.
- To identify specific neuropeptides and enzymes affected by radiation exposure.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical analysis of rat urinary bladders from irradiated (15 Gy, 25 Gy) and control groups.
- Localization of neuropeptide Y (NPY), substance P (SP), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and others.
- Computer-assisted image analysis to quantify nerve fiber density.
Main Results:
- Irradiation, especially at 25 Gy, led to a significant increase in NPY-, TH-, and SP-immunoreactive nerves.
- Regional variations observed, with increased VIP, CGRP, and SP nerves near the urothelium.
- NPY-immunoreactive nerves appeared in the lamina propria post-irradiation.
Conclusions:
- Increased density of NPY-, SP-, and TH-immunoreactive nerves in irradiated bladders suggests axonal sprouting.
- Axonal sprouting may play a role in the pathophysiology of radiation-induced bladder injury.