Five primary prostanoids are synthesized by the cyclooxygenase enzymes, COX 1 and COX 2: the prostaglandins PGE2, PGF2α, PGI2, PGD2, and thromboxane A2. High levels of these signaling molecules have been implicated—in both animal models and human studies—in decreased functional bladder capacity and micturition volume, and increased voiding contraction amplitude. In this Perspectives article, the authors describe the role of prostanoids in bladder physiology, summarize the findings from animal model and human studies, and discuss the clinical use of prostanoids in the treatment of functional bladder disorders.
- Mohammad S. Rahnama'i
- Philip E. V. van Kerrebroeck
- Gommert A. van Koeveringe
