Relation between expression of α1-adrenoceptor mRNAs in bladder mucosa and urodynamic findings in men with lower urinary tract symptoms

Objective. To investigate the possible relationship between the bladder mucosal expression of alpha(1)-adrenoceptor (AR) mRNAs, storage symptoms and urodynamic findings in patients with lower urinary symptoms (LUTS) and benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). Material and methods. Mucosa was obtained from the posterior bladder wall from 20 patients with a diagnosis of LUTS and BP undergoing prostatectomy. alpha(1)-AR subtype mRNA was quantified using competitive real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. A preoperative video urodynamic study measured volumes for first desire to void (FDV) and strong desire to void (SDV). Patients were divided into group 1, with volumes for FDV <= 200 ml or SDV <= 300 ml, and group 2, with volumes FDV >= 201 ml and SDV >= 301 ml. Preoperative and postoperative international prostate symptom score (IPSS) and Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS) were evaluated. Results. The group 1 FDV (141.0 +/- 13.5 ml) was significantly lower than that of group 2 (299.0 +/- 48.1 ml). Similarly, the SDV for group 1 (247.0 +/- 21.9 ml) was also significantly lower than for group 2 (444.0 +/- 32.5 ml). There were no significant differences between groups 1 and 2 with respect to mucosal alpha(1a)- and alpha(1b)-AR mRNA levels. However, group 1 patients had significantly more alpha(1d)-mRNA than those in group 2. No relationship between the expression of alpha(1)-AR mRNAs and preoperative or postoperative OABSS or IPSS was detected. Conclusion. There was a relationship between the expression of alpha(1d)-AR mRNA in the bladder mucosa and storage-phase urodynamics in LUTS/BPO patients, suggesting a role of alpha(1d)-ARs in bladder sensation.