Novel biomarkers of overactive bladder syndrome

Abstract

The social aspect of overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) and the lack of objective diagnostic methods for this syndrome have spurred research into its potential biomarkers which can constitute useful diagnostic tools, while also allowing the evaluation of the intensity of clinical symptoms and the efficacy of implemented pharmacotherapy in OAB patients. Due to the complex etiopathogenesis of this syndrome, the researchers are seeking biomarkers connected with inflammation or nerve growth. The aim of this review was to analyse the latest literature data regarding potential biomarkers in OAB. The most promising opportunities are connected with the diagnostic use of the nerve growth factor (NGF), the brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), C-reactive protein (CRP), prostaglandins and cytokines. Despite the most promising results to date having been obtained with regards to neurotrophic factors, it seems that, at the moment, none of these meets the criteria for becoming an isolated OAB marker. It is also suggested that the combined use of several biomarkers will facilitate obtaining the appropriate level of specificity and selectivity to allow their use in clinical practice.

Biomarkers Implicated in Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: Systematic Review and Pathway Analyses

“…Some researchers have proposed that future research should focus on "fingerprints" or panels of multiple molecules to better understand, diagnose and treat LUTS. 41,42 Our pathway analyses provide some direction for this type of future research. For OAB in particular our results indicate multiple immune response pathways that were highly significantly enriched even after FDR adjustment.…”

Blebbistatin, a Myosin II Inhibitor, Exerts Antidepressant-Like Activity and Suppresses Detrusor Overactivity in an Animal Model of Depression Coexisting with Overactive Bladder

“…Moreover, treatment with BLEB normalized changes in factors which are recognized as pathophysiological components of both depressive (Nestler et al 2002 ) and voiding disorders (Klausner and Steers 2004 ; Wróbel et al 2017b ), i.e., CRF, BDNF and NGF, in central and peripheral compartments. PFC and Hp are among well-studied regions of the brain that exhibit retinoic acid signaling with regard to depressive disorders (Bremner and McCaffery 2008 ).…”

The Urogynecology Section of the Polish Society of Gynecologists and Obstetricians guidelines on the management of non-neurogenic overactive bladder syndrome in women

“…However, the limitations and side effects of pharmacotherapy are the reasons why the search for new solutions continues. Animal studies are conducted to find new drugs to treat the OAB syndrome [19,36,[77][78][79][80]. Preclinical studies lead to the development of new drugs, which may in time find applications in clinical practice [16,77].…”