Expression of transforming growth factor β1 gene, basic fibroblast growth factor gene and hydroxyproline in diabetes‐induced bladder dysfunction in a rat model

AbstractAimsTo investigate the content of hydroxyproline (Hyp) and the expression of transforming growth factor beta1 (TGFβ1) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in the bladder 8 weeks after diabetes induction.MethodsThirty wistar rats were divided into three groups: control (n = 10), streptozotocin‐induced diabetic group (n = 10), TAD group (n = 10; diabetic rats were fed with Tadenan100 mg kg−1 day−1). Eight weeks later, the bladders were dissected. RT‐PCR, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA were used to detect the expression of TGFβ1 and bFGF in the bladder. Also hydroxyproline (Hyp) was measured using a method based on alkaline hydrolysis.ResultsThe content of hydroxyproline in the diabetic group was greater than that of control group (P < 0.05); we found significantly increased expression of TGFβ1 mRNA and bFGF mRNA in the bladder from the diabetic group compared with the control group; immunohistochemical and ELISA studies showed a statistically significant increased expression of TGFβ1 protein and bFGF protein in the bladder from the diabetic group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The content of hydroxyproline in TAD group was less than that of diabetic group (P < 0.05); mRNA expression of TGFβ1 and bFGF greatly decreased in TAD group compared with that of the diabetic group; immunohistochemical and ELISA studies showed decreased levels of TGFβ1 protein and bFGF protein in the bladder from TAD group compared with the diabetic group (P < 0.05).ConclusionsRats with streptozoticin‐induced diabetes mellitus showed significant increase in hydroxyproline, TGFβ1 and bFGF levels in their bladders, which may be an important mechanism inducing diabetic cystopathy. Tadenan could effectively reduce hydroxyproline, TGFβ1, and bFGF levels. Neurourol. Urodynam. 27:254–259, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.