Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in the lower urinary tract in rats after castration and estrogen administration

Abstract

The present study implies a potential relationship between VEGF and urinary tract physiology. The results suggest that there are quantitative differences in VEGF expression in these tissues depending on steroid hormone status.

Dietary Nutrients and Urinary Incontinence in Japanese Adults

“…Lutein is effective in reducing the impact of adhesion molecules along aortic endothelial cell 28 . Higher intakes of lutein/zeaxanthin have been reported to decrease the risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, and carotid intima‐media thickness, 29 while an animal study has implied a potential relationship between the vascular endothelial growth factor in the bladder and urinary tract physiology 30 . Therefore, lutein/zeaxanthin may play a role in the etiology of UI.…”

Influence of estrogen replacement and aging on the expression of nerve growth factor in the urethra of female rats

“…Estrogen and progesterone receptors are present in the trigone and urethra,12–14 suggesting that these structures may be affected by hormonal decline 15–17. Decreased estrogen levels trigger atrophy of the urogenital mucosa, involution of the vascular plexus (as confirmed by expression of vascular endothelial growth factor; VEGF),18–21 and increased collagen deposition in relation to smooth muscle in the urethra 18, 19, 22–26…”