E-Posters-10123

10123_Chaudhry

Pdf Summary

This pilot study aimed to investigate the potential involvement of the sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) signaling pathway in urinary incontinence. Specifically, the study focused on interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) and overactive bladder (OAB). The study obtained blood samples and bladder biopsy samples from women with control, IC/BPS, and OAB conditions. <br /><br />The results showed that the serum S1P levels in IC/BPS and OAB patients were lower compared to controls. This may indicate a compensatory response of the body to increased S1P3 receptor activation or binding of S1P to receptors. <br /><br />Western blot analysis of bladder biopsy samples revealed a single band indicating the presence of α-smooth muscle actin, a marker of smooth muscle phenotype. This band was observed in the IC/BPS sample but not in the control sample, suggesting that the IC/BPS biopsy contained more smooth muscle. This could be due to a thinning of the urothelial layer in the IC/BPS sample. <br /><br />Another gel analysis showed a weak band for the S1P3 receptor at the predicted molecular weight in all samples. However, quantifiable differences between samples were difficult to discern due to the low expression levels of the receptor. <br /><br />Overall, this study provides preliminary evidence suggesting a potential involvement of the S1P pathway in urinary incontinence, particularly IC/BPS and OAB. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Keywords

pilot study

sphingosine-1-phosphate

S1P signaling pathway

urinary incontinence

interstitial cystitis

bladder pain syndrome

overactive bladder

serum S1P levels

α-smooth muscle actin

S1P3 receptor