Abstract | PURPOSE:
Vesicoureteral reflux is caused by a defective valve mechanism of the ureterovesical junction. Previous studies have revealed structural and metabolic changes in the intravesical ureter, impairing its contractile properties. Smooth musculature and nerves are replaced by collagen, while matrix degrading enzymes are over expressed. We investigated the presence of regulating cytokines and the extracellular matrix composition to elucidate further the pathophysiology of vesicoureteral reflux. MATERIALS AND METHODS: RESULTS: CONCLUSIONS: Several cytokines are differentially expressed in primary refluxing ureters, indicating an ongoing tissue remodeling process in the ureterovesical junction region. Additionally, the smooth muscle coat is widely lacking, while extracellular matrix proteins typical for tissue shrinkage and reorganization are over expressed. These alterations are likely to contribute to the malfunctioning active ureteral valve mechanism in primary vesicoureteral reflux.
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Authors | C Schwentner, J Oswald, A Lunacek, A E Pelzer, H Fritsch, B Schlenck, A Karatzas, G Bartsch, C Radmayr |
Journal | The Journal of urology
(J Urol)
Vol. 180
Issue 2
Pg. 694-700
(Aug 2008)
ISSN: 1527-3792 [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 18554644
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
- Biomarkers
- Cytokines
- Somatomedins
- Transforming Growth Factor beta1
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
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Topics |
- Biomarkers
(metabolism)
- Biopsy, Needle
- Case-Control Studies
- Child, Preschool
- Cytokines
(metabolism)
- Extracellular Matrix
(metabolism, pathology)
- Extracellular Space
- Female
- Humans
- Immunohistochemistry
- Infant
- Intercellular Junctions
(pathology)
- Male
- Muscle Contraction
(physiology)
- Muscle, Smooth
(pathology)
- Risk Factors
- Sensitivity and Specificity
- Severity of Illness Index
- Somatomedins
(metabolism)
- Transforming Growth Factor beta1
(metabolism)
- Ureteroscopy
- Urothelium
(metabolism, pathology)
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
(metabolism)
- Vesico-Ureteral Reflux
(metabolism, pathology)
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