Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome Research Articles

Safety and Efficacy of Intra-Prostatic Injection of Betamethasone for Refractory Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis: A Prospective Cohort Clinical Study.

We aimed to assess the safety and effectiveness of TRUS guided betamethasone injections in refractory cases of chronic nonbacterial prostatitis. Forty-five patients with refractory CNP were included in a prospective cohort clinical trial. Six injections of betamethasone sodium sulfate were guided by TRUS. After injection: assessment of NIH-CPSI, IPSS, IIEF, GRA and VAS were performed 1, 4, and 12 weeks after injection. Prostatitis symptoms were measured by NIH-CPSI. We considered the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) as a 25% decrease or a six-point reduction from baseline. We considered the MCID of the IIEF to be at least an increase of 4 points. We considered the MCID of the IPSS score to be three points and the MCID for the VAS score to be a 25%-35% change of the initial score. Regarding the global response assessment (GRA), scores 5-7 means significant success rate of perceived treatment. According to total NIH CPSI score, the success rate of injected cases was 71% after 1 week, dropping to 55.6% after 4 weeks and 44.4% after 12 weeks. According to IPSS questionnaire, the MD (mean difference) is -4.09 ± 3.5, -3.8 ± 3.83 and -3.47 ± 3.92. According to the IIEF questionnaire, the success rate was 22% and 26.7% after 4 and 12 weeks respectively. According to GRA, successful pain control was reported in 82%, 71% and 64.4% after 1, 4 and 12 weeks, respectively. Intraprostatic betamethasone injection is a simple, safe, and feasible procedure in refractory cases with CNP with predominant pain and urinary symptoms.

Inflammation impacts androgen receptor signaling in basal prostate stem cells through interleukin 1 receptor antagonist

Chronic prostate inflammation in patients with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) correlates with the severity of symptoms. How inflammation contributes to prostate enlargement and/or BPH symptoms and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we utilize a unique transgenic mouse model that mimics chronic non-bacterial prostatitis in men and investigate the impact of inflammation on androgen receptor (AR) in basal prostate stem cells (bPSC) and their differentiation in vivo. We find that inflammation significantly enhances AR levels and activity in bPSC. More importantly, we identify interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) as a crucial regulator of AR in bPSC during inflammation. IL-1RA is one of the top molecules upregulated by inflammation, and inhibiting IL-1RA reverses the enhanced AR activity in organoids derived from inflamed bPSC. Additionally, IL-1RA appears to activate AR by counteracting IL-1α's inhibitory effect. Furthermore, using a lineage tracing model, we observe that inflammation induces bPSC proliferation and differentiation into luminal cells even under castrate conditions, indicating that AR activation driven by inflammation is sufficient to promote bPSC proliferation and differentiation. Taken together, our study uncovers mechanisms through which inflammation modulates AR signaling in bPSC and induces bPSC luminal differentiation that may contribute to prostate hyperplasia.

Evaluation of efficacy and safety of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound in patients with concurrent erectile dysfunction and chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome: a prospective, randomized controlled study

ObjectiveThe primary objective of this clinical trial is to investigate the effect of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on patients suffering from comorbid erectile dysfunction (ED) and chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome(CP/CPPS).MethodsThe clinical trial was conducted in the andrology outpatient treatment room of the Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University from August to November 2022 A total of 60 patients who met the research criteria for comorbid ED combined with CP/CPPS were recruited and randomly assigned to three treatment groups. They were treated with LIPUS (Group A), drug therapy(Group B), and LIPUS combined with drug therapy (Group C), respectively. Each group comprised 20 patients. Statistical analysis was performed on the five-item version of International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), Erection Hardness Score (EHS), National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI), the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), and the incidence of adverse events to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy and safety of LIPUS.ResultsThe positive response rate of ED and CP/CPPS treatment in Group A is 40%(8/20) and 45%(9/20), while those in Group B is 55%(11/20) and 60%(12/20), and those in Group C is 85%(17/20) and 85%(17/20). A notable increase in IIEF-5 scores was observed across the three groups post-treatment (10.45 ± 2.50 vs. 13.65 ± 3.03, P = 0.008; 11.80 ± 3.21 vs. 16.40 ± 3.20, P = 0.011; 12.90 ± 3.92 vs. 19.40 ± 2.35, P = 0.042) with a concomitant significant decrease in NIH-CPSI scores (16.75 ± 4.53 vs. 14.65 ± 4.51, P = 0.016; 16.35 ± 4.32 vs. 12.20 ± 4.74, P = 0.007; 16.00 ± 4.40 vs. 8.15 ± 4.28, P = 0.021). Notably, the most pronounced changes were seen in the group receiving LIPUS combined with tadalafil and doxazosin. Additionally, all groups exhibited marked improvements in anxiety and depression symptoms post-treatment. No adverse events were observed during treatment.ConclusionLIPUS can improve erectile function and CP/CPPS symptoms with good safety, and LIPUS combined with tadalafil and doxazosin is more effective during the treatment. However, its long-term efficacy remains to be seen.Trial RegistrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry; approval number: ChiCTR2200063038 (https://www.chictr.org.cn/) on August 29, 2022.

Cytokine Status Disorders and Their Role in the Pathogenesis of Chronic Abacterial Prostatitis of Non-Inflammatory Nature

Relevance. Chronic abacterial prostatitis (CAP) of a non-inflammatory nature remains a complex disease in terms of proven etiological factors and pathogenetic mechanisms. Recent studies define it as a nosology based on homeostasis disorders with damaging effects directed towards the prostate. Pathogenetically, this is cytokine aseptic inflammation and lipid peroxidation, which occurs under conditions of compromised antioxidant protection. Objective — to study the cytokine status in the experimental reproduction of non-inflammatory CAP models.Materials and methods. 100 male white rats were studied, 25 formed a control group, and the remaining ones were divided into 3 equal groups for experiments on creating various models of CAP and systemic chronic stress. At the end of the experiment, blood was taken and the prostate was removed to obtain a homogenate. The substrates were used to determine pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines.Results. In the isolated CAP model of category IIIB, cytokine disorders were detected in prostate tissue (to a greater extent), and at the systemic level (to a lesser extent). The model of systemic immobilization stress proved the possibility of triggering cytokine disorders in prostate tissue characteristic of CAP IIIB. Severe homeostasis disorders at the systemic and local levels were observed in experiments where both systemic stress and the local CAP model were modeled.Conclusion. Cytokine imbalance plays a key role in the pathogenesis of СAP IIIB. At the same time, systemic and organ cytokine disorders interact with each other and, under certain circumstances, aggravate the damaging effect of each other.

Efficacy and safety of bioregulatory peptides in the treatment of prostate diseases: a review

The article describes the risk factors, pathogenetic mechanisms of development of various prostate diseases and highlights the problems in their treatment. Information on regulatory peptides and their mechanism of action is presented. Clinical studies proving the high effectiveness of bioregulatory peptides in the treatment of chronic prostatitis, chronic pelvic pain syndrome and benign prostatic hyperplasia are presented. The analysis was carried out and evidence of the effectiveness of domestic drugs Prostatex and Prostateks Plus in the treatment of prostate diseases was presented.

Оценка эффективности и безопасности применения медицинского изделия «МАВИТ» у пациентов с хроническим простатитом и синдромом хронической тазовой боли

Abstract. Recent studies have shown that chronic prostatitis is one of the most common clinically and socially significant diseases. With chronic prostatitis, mental health suffers no less than with other severe somatic diseases, which sharply reduces the quality of life of men. This was a serious incentive for this study. In outpatient conditions, 50 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of N41 were examined. 1 Chronic prostatitis; R10.2 Pelvic and perineal pain. At the stage of inclusion in the study and treatment, the patient is examined: 1) Study of anamnesis. (NIH-CPS; IPSS; IIEF-5; PHQ-9; GAD-7; EQ–5D–3L) 2) Physical examination (determination of the somatic status of the study subjects) 3) Laboratory examinations were carried out in the laboratories of the clinical bases of the Consultative and Diagnostic Center No2 of the Moscow Health Department, Moscow, 8 Igralnaya Street; Clinical base Central Medical Clinic CMD, Moscow, Perovo metro station, Novogireevskaya st., 3A; Clinical base Clinic «New Medicine», Moscow region, Orekhovo-Zuevo, Lenin st., 44. (urine culture for microflora or urine assessment with a test strip once - before the start of therapy, four-cup test, PSA, CRP, STI screening) 4). Specialized diagnostic tests (ultrasound of the bladder with determination of the volume of residual urine, uroflowmetry, TRUS of the prostate with Doppler mapping). GE LOGIQ V2 ultrasound machine with convex and rectal probe. The obtained research data and interpretation of statistical data allow us to conclude that it is possible to use the MAVIT device according to GIKS.941549.102 TU, manufactured by Yelatma Instrument Plant JSC, according to the selected methods, 7 procedures every 2 months in urological patients with chronic prostatitis and the presence of chronic pelvic pain syndrome in order to relieve pain symptoms, lower urinary tract symptoms. The study also found positive effects on men’s sexual function and a reduction in anxiety disorders. All these positive outcomes in relation to the treatment of the main group of patients allow us to conclude that the MAVIT device may be widely used in the work of a practitioner both on an outpatient basis and in a day hospital.

Clinical Analysis of Acupuncture Combined with Acupoint Injection for the Treatment of Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis

Objective: To evaluate the therapeutic effect of acupuncture combined with acupoint injection on chronic nonbacterial prostatitis (CNP). Methods: A total of 72 CNP patients admitted between March 2022 and October 2023 were selected. The patients were randomly divided into two groups using a random number table. The combined treatment group (36 cases) received acupuncture combined with acupoint injection therapy, while the control group (36 cases) received conventional Western medicine treatment. The overall efficacy rate, symptom severity, prostatic fluid indicators, incidence of adverse reactions, and recurrence rates were compared. Results: The overall efficacy rate of the combined treatment group was higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). After 10 days of treatment, the symptom severity score of the combined treatment group was higher than that of the control group, and the prostatic fluid indicators were lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions in the combined treatment group was lower than in the control group (P < 0.05). During the follow-up period of 1–6 months, the recurrence rate in the combined treatment group was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Acupuncture combined with acupoint injection can alleviate CNP disease symptoms, improve prostate function, and prevent post-treatment adverse reactions. It also has a lower recurrence risk and demonstrates excellent efficacy.

The role of gut microbiota involved in prostate microenvironment and symptoms improvement in chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome patients treated with low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave.

Low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT) is emerging as a promising and safe treatment for Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of the gut microbiota involved in the prostate microenvironment and symptom improvement during the Li-ESWT for CP/CPPS patients. CP/CPPS patients not taking antibiotics or other treatments were included. NIH-Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) were used to evaluate the effectiveness of Li-ESWT at the end of treatment. Visual analogue scale/score was used to evaluate the pain during procedure. Stool and semen samples were collected before and after Li-ESWT. Shotgun metagenomics analyzed gut microbiota, while ELISA and other diagnostic kits detected biochemical changes in seminal plasma. Of the 60 enrolled patients, 52 completed treatment. Li-ESWT response rate was 78.8% (41/52) at end of treatment. Among responders, the subitems of the NIH-CPSI; IPSS; and IIEF-5 scores improved significantly, and the seminal plasma analysis showed decreased TNF-a and MDA levels and increased SOD and Zn2+ levels posttreatment. Gut microbiome analysis indicated that posttreatment, both α and β diversity increased, and the abundance of certain specific species significantly increased. Fifty-eight pathways significantly enriched posttreatment, notably in branched-chain amino acid synthesis and butyrate synthesis. The abundance of several specific species was found to be significantly higher in non-responders than responders. Among responders, at the species level, some bacteria associated with NIH-CPSI and its subscales, IPSS, IIEF-5, and prostate microenvironment markers (TNF-a, MDA, Zn2+, and SOD) were identified. Our study demonstrates for the first time that Li-ESWT improves the prostate microenvironment and gut microbiota in CP/CPPS patients. Treatment nonresponse may be associated with a high abundance of specific pathogens before treatment. The gut microbiota could have a significant impact on Li-ESWT response and the prostate microenvironment.

Pelvic pain in terms of an interdisciplinary approach in patient treatment (literature review)

Pelvic pain is one of the most significant problems in clinical practice. The issues of diagnosis and classification of disorders associated with pain in the pelvic girdle remain controversial, despite numerous studies in this area. Most disorders associated with chronic pelvic pain (CPP) do not have a specific pathological basis, which remains a blank spot in clinical practice. After analyzing modern literary sources, it can be considered that chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) has a multifactorial nature, since it occurs under the influence of the psychological aspect together with disorders occurring in the endocrine, nervous, and immune systems of the human body. When a patient seeks help for constant pelvic pain, a correct and thorough anamnesis plays a decisive role. Success in diagnosis and treatment depends 90 % on the quality of information collected about the patient's condition. To determine the cause of chronic pelvic pain, it is necessary to exclude or confirm the influence of many factors, especially urological, gynecological, gastrointestinal, and neurological ones. CPPS can occur for various reasons. Of these, 40 % of cases are due to varicose veins of the pelvic veins; in 25 % of cases, endometriosis is detected; chronic inflammatory diseases of the small organs account for no more than 15 % of cases. Much less common are benign tumors of the uterus and appendages and adhesions in the small pelvis, accounting for up to 12 % and up to 6 % of cases, respectively. No less important are causes unrelated to the reproductive organs, such as interstitial cystitis, spastic colitis, and hypertonicity of the pelvic floor muscles (2 % of cases). After a detailed study and differentiation of the causes of chronic pelvic pain, there is no doubt that the optimal approach to understanding the pathogenesis of pelvic pain is an integrated approach that includes somatic and mental components, and diagnosis and treatment of pain syndromes should be carried out by a team of specialists, since in this case only an interdisciplinary approach is effective.

Protective effect of astaxanthin on chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome in rat through modulating NF-κB signaling pathway.

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a common male urological disease characterized by chronic pelvic pain and various discomforts. Astaxanthin (AST) has multiple functions, including anti-inflammatory property, but it is unclear whether AST plays a key role in CP/CPPS and how it works. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of AST on CP/CPPS in rats and the underlying mechanism. A CP/CPPS rat model was induced by intraprostatic injection of carrageenan and the blood specimens and prostates were harvested for further research after oral administration of AST for 4 weeks. Tactile allodynia test showed that AST ameliorated chronic pelvic pain in a dose-depended manner. In addition, histological evaluation indicated that AST alleviated CP/CPPS rat prostate histological inflammation. Meanwhile, AST suppressed the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Besides, AST inhibited the activities of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2). Furthermore, AST decreased the activation of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway. Our study has shown that AST exerts an anti-inflammatory and protective effect against CP/CPPS and the function is mediated at least through the suppression of NF-κB signaling pathway. These results provide evidence of AST as the potential agents for the treatment of CP/CPPS.

Efficacy of acupuncture on drinkers with chronic prostatitis / chronic pelvic pain syndrome: secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial.

To evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture in drinkers with chronic prostatitis / chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). We conducted a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial across multiple centers, involving 224 drinkers. Patients received either acupuncture or sham acupuncture treatment. The primary outcome was the proportion of responders, defined as participants who had a reduction of 6 points or more from baseline in the National Institute of Health-Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) total score at weeks 8 and 32. Secondary outcomes measures included the Global Response Assessment (GRA), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF-5). One hundred and twelve drinkers were included in each group (n = 224 in total). The proportion of responders in terms of NIH-CPSI was 58.9% versus 40.3% in the acupuncture group (AG) and sham acupuncture group (SAG), respectively, with a statistically significant difference of 18.6% (p = 0.002) at week 8. Higher proportions of responders with respect to NIH-CPSI (p < 0.001 at week 32) and GRA (p < 0.001 at week 8 and p = 0.01 at week 32) were observed in the AG compared with the SAG. No between-group differences were found in the changes in IPSS at any assessment time point. Changes in IIEF-5 score were significantly higher in the AG than in the SAG at weeks 20 and 32, while the difference was not statistically significant at week 8. Acupuncture appeared to alleviate the symptoms of pain among drinkers with CP/CPPS and improve their quality of life, but had no demonstrable effect on urinary tract symptoms or erectile function among these patients. NCT03213938 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Transcatheter Arterial Embolization for Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: A Retrospective Study of 44 Patients.

To investigate the preliminary treatment outcomes of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). This retrospective study included patients with refractory CP/CPPS who underwent TAE between April 2022 and February 2023. All patients had persistent pelvic pain for at least 3months, a total score of at least 15 on the NIH-Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI), and lacked evidence of infection. All procedures were performed by injecting imipenem/cilastatin sodium (IPM/CS) from bilateral prostatic arteries ± internal pudendal arteries. NIH-CPSI, pain numeric rating scale (NRS), and complications were evaluated at 1, 3, and 6months after the initial TAE and at the final follow-up. Out of 48 patients, 44 were included in this study, with four excluded because of loss of follow-up. No severe procedure-related complications were observed. Pretreatment and post-treatment evaluations at 1, 3, and 6months after the initial TAE and at the final follow-up (mean 16.6months) revealed a decrease in the mean NIH-CPSI scores from 27 ± 6 to 21 ± 8, 20 ± 9, 17 ± 9, and 18 ± 9, respectively (all P < 0.001). Pain NRS scores were also decreased from 7.0 ± 1.6 to 4.8 ± 2.5, 4.1 ± 2.6, 3.7 ± 2.4, and 3.4 ± 2.3, respectively (all P < 0.001). The proportions of clinical success, defined as a reduction of at least 6 points from baseline in the NIH-CPSI, at 6months after TAE and at the final follow-up were 70 and 64%, respectively. This study provides evidence of the feasibility of TAE using IPM/CS for CP/CPPS, suggesting both symptomatic improvement and safety.

Chronic pelvic pain syndrome in women of reproductive age: An observational cohort clinical ultrasound study

Background. The annual number of new cases of chronic pelvic pain syndrome in women of reproductive age is increasing worldwide. The high prevalence of this condition among the able-bodied female population leads to higher state expenditures on the treatment of this category of patients. New methods of diagnosis and early prophylaxis contribute to reducing economic burden associated with chronic pelvic pain syndrome in women and improving health of the female population as a fundamental demographic factor.Objectives. To determine somatic, obstetric-gynecological, anatomical, and psycho-emotional predictors of chronic pelvic pain syndrome.Methods. An observational cohort clinical and ultrasound study involved 60 patients of reproductive age. The study was conducted on the basis of the clinic for women, Voronezh City Outpatient Clinic No. 1 — clinical base of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology No. 2, Voronezh State Medical University named after N. N. Burdenko, Russia. According to clinical and laboratory data, the participants were divided into 2 groups. Group 1 (n = 30) included women of reproductive age without clinical manifestations of chronic pelvic pain syndrome; Group 2 (n = 30) enrolled women of reproductive age clinically diagnosed with chronic pelvic pain.Results. The mean age of the study participants in the main group comprised 27.4 ± 6.30 and 26.3 ± 7.25 years in the control group, p &gt; 0.05. Diseases of gastrointestinal tract, endocrine, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and urinary systems, as well as neurocirculatory and vegetative disorders prevailed in the structure of somatic pathology in the main group, p &lt; 0.001. Analysis of obstetric and gynecologic anamnesis revealed no statistically significant differences in the incidence of gynecologic pathology in the study groups. However, according to the detailed analysis of the delivery history of the participants, 23 patients of the main group (76 %) and 3 patients (6.6 %) of the control group underwent episiotomy during labor, p &lt; 0.001. The evaluation of the comparison groups in terms of pain component in myofascial syndrome involved the pain rating index, number of selected descriptors, sensory index of the selected descriptors, emotional index of the selected descriptors, and pain intensity. Statistically significant differences were revealed for all of the above indicators, thereby confirming a reliable picture of pathopsychological changes in the compared groups of women. The analysis of the ultrasound parameters of topographic and anatomical relationships demonstrated the relevant change in the following parameters: urethral length, diameter of the external urethral sphincter, angle between the external urethra and the body of the bladder, direct and transverse dimensions of the levator hiatus in the studied groups under the muscle tension.Conclusion. An issue of early diagnosis and prophylaxis of chronic pelvic pain syndrome in women of reproductive age remains urgent and requires interdisciplinary participation of medical specialists. The development of new approaches to ultrasound evaluation of pelvic floor will increase the effectiveness of therapeutic and prophylactic measures and reduce the economic burden of this nosology in the morbidity structure of the able-bodied female population.

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome impairs erectile function by inducing apoptosis in a rat model of experimental autoimmune prostatitis.

Over the years, numerous epidemiological studies have shown that chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) promotes erectile dysfunction. Nonetheless, the precise underlying mechanism remains to be fully clarified. The objective of this research was to identify crucial signaling pathways responsible for CP/CPPS-induced erectile dysfunction. Thirty 8-week-old male Sprague‒Dawley rats were randomly assigned to either the CP/CPPS model group or the control group. The CP/CPPS rat model was established through subcutaneous injection of a combination of rat prostate protein and Freund's adjuvant. Penile erectile function assessment was conducted 45 days after immunization through electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. RNA sequencing of the corpus cavernosum of the penis was then performed using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and protein‒protein interaction network analysis. Western blotting was performed on the cavernous tissue. Cell apoptosis assays, cell counting kit-8 assays, cell cloning assays, and Western blotting were conducted on rat endothelial cells. Erectile function was significantly lower in the CP/CPPS model group than in the control group (p < 0.001). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes were predominantly enriched in the apoptosis pathway. Moreover, an increase in apoptosis in the rat corpus cavernosum, along with a decrease in the protein expression of CD31 (p = 0.0089) and eNOS (p = 0.0069) following CP/CPPS induction, was observed. In a protein‒protein interaction network, Pitx2 was recognized as a central gene. The role of Pitx2 in regulating apoptosis was demonstrated in experiments using rat endothelial cell lines, and it was found to be regulated by the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. This study highlights the occurrence of cavernous endothelial cell apoptosis in CP/CPPS-induced erectile dysfunction, and the potential mechanism of apoptosis may involve inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin/Pitx2 pathway.

NLRP3-mediated IL-1β in regulating the imbalance between Th17 and Treg in experimental autoimmune prostatitis

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a urinary disorder that affects youthful to middle-aged men most frequently. It has been revealed that Th17/Treg imbalance is a crucial factor in the pathophysiological mechanisms behind this disease. However, this imbalance’s mechanisms are unknown. In the experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) mouse model, the NLRP3 inflammasome was turned on, IL-1β levels went up. Moreover, there exists a discernible positive association between the upsurge in IL-1β and the perturbation of Th17/Treg equilibrium. Additionally, we have revealed that IL-1β plays a vital role in promoting the differentiation of Naïve CD4+ T cells into the Th17 cells and enhances the conversion of Treg cells into Th17 cells. Further studies revealed that IL-1β promotes STAT3 phosphorylation, which is what causes Treg cells to become Th17 cells. All data strongly suggest that the NLRP3 inflammatory influence Th17 cell development and the conversion of Treg cells into Th17 cells through IL-1β, disrupting the Th17/Treg balance and exacerbating EAP inflammation. In this article, we provide new theories for the pathogenesis of CP/CPPS and propose new prevention and therapy methods.

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome induces metabolomic changes in expressed prostatic secretions and plasma.

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a complex disease that is often accompanied by mental health disorders. However, the potential mechanisms underlying the heterogeneous clinical presentation of CP/CPPS remain uncertain. This study analyzed widely targeted metabolomic data of expressed prostatic secretions (EPS) and plasma to reveal the underlying pathological mechanisms of CP/CPPS. A total of 24 CP/CPPS patients from The Second Nanning People's Hospital (Nanning, China), and 35 asymptomatic control individuals from First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University (Nanning, China) were enrolled. The indicators related to CP/CPPS and psychiatric symptoms were recorded. Differential analysis, coexpression network analysis, and correlation analysis were performed to identify metabolites that were specifically altered in patients and associated with various phenotypes of CP/CPPS. The crucial links between EPS and plasma were further investigated. The metabolomic data of EPS from CP/CPPS patients were significantly different from those from control individuals. Pathway analysis revealed dysregulation of amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, and the citrate cycle in EPS. The tryptophan metabolic pathway was found to be the most significantly altered pathway associated with distinct CP/CPPS phenotypes. Moreover, the dysregulation of tryptophan and tyrosine metabolism and elevation of oxidative stress-related metabolites in plasma were found to effectively elucidate the development of depression in CP/CPPS. Overall, metabolomic alterations in the EPS and plasma of patients were primarily associated with oxidative damage, energy metabolism abnormalities, neurological impairment, and immune dysregulation. These alterations may be associated with chronic pain, voiding symptoms, reduced fertility, and depression in CP/CPPS. This study provides a local-global perspective for understanding the pathological mechanisms of CP/CPPS and offers potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets.

Safety of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy in prostate disorders: in vitro and in vivo evidence.

Recent evidence suggests that low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) is a promising treatment for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS); however, its safety in pelvic organs, particularly prostate tissues and cells, remains unclear. The current study evaluates the risks of prostate cell damage or oncogenesis following the administration of Li-ESWT for prostatitis. To this end, a robust in vitro model (Cell Counting Kit-8 [CCK-8] assay, clone formation assay, cell scratch assay, lactate dehydrogenase [LDH] release assay, flow cytometry, and immunoblotting assay) was designed to examine the effects of Li-ESWT on cell proliferation, clonogenicity, migration, membrane integrity, and DNA damage. Exome sequencing of Li-ESWT-treated cells was performed to determine the risk of carcinogenesis. Furthermore, an in vivo rat model ( n = 20) was employed to assess the effects of Li-ESWT on cancer biomarkers (carcinoembryonic antigen [CEA], Ki67, proliferating cell nuclear antigen [PCNA], and gamma-H2A histone family member X, phosphorylation of the H2AX Ser-139 [ γ -H2AX]) in prostate tissue. Based on our findings, Li-ESWT promotes cellular growth and motility without inducing significant cell membrane or DNA damage or alterations. Genetic analyses did not demonstrate an increase in mutations, and no damage to prostate tissue or upregulation of cancer biomarkers was detected in vivo. This comprehensive in vitro and in vivo assessment confirms the safety of Li-ESWT in managing prostate disorders.

Current Understanding of Androgen Signaling in Prostatitis and its Treatment: A Review.

Chronic prostatitis is a highly prevalent condition that significantly impacts the quality of life and fertility of men. Because of its heterogeneous nature, there is no definitive treatment, which requires ongoing research into its etiology. Additionally, the association between prostatitis and an elevated risk of prostate cancer highlights the importance of comprehending androgen involvement in prostatitis. This paper examines the current understanding of androgen signaling in prostatitis and explores contemporary therapeutic approaches. It was reviewed Medline articles comprehensively, using keywords such as nonbacterial prostatitis, prostatitis infertility, androgen role in prostatitis, and chronic pelvic pain. Several cellular targets are linked to androgen signaling. Notably, the major tyrosine phosphatase activity (cPAcP) in normal human prostate is influenced by androgen signaling, and its serum levels inversely correlate with prostate cancer progression. Androgens also regulate membrane-associated zinc and pyruvate transporters transduction in prostate cells, suggesting promising avenues for novel drug development aimed at inhibiting these molecules to reduce cancer tumor growth. Various therapies for prostatitis have been evaluated, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications (including bioflavonoids), neuromodulators, alpha-blockers, 5α-reductase inhibitors, and androgen receptor antagonists. These therapies have demonstrated varying degrees of success in ameliorating symptoms.In conclusion, aging decreases circulating T and intraprostatic DHT, altering the proper functioning of the prostate, reducing the ability of androgens to maintain normal Zn2+ levels, and diminishing the secretion of citrate, PAcP, and other proteins into the prostatic fluid. The Zn2+-transporter decreases or is absent in prostate cancer, so the pyruvate transporter activates. Consequently, the cell ATP increases, inducing tumor growth.

Berberine hydrochloride alleviates chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome by modifying gut microbiome signaling.

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is highly prevalent worldwide and poses a significant threat to men's health, particularly affecting young men. However, the exact causes and mechanisms behind CP/CPPS remain unclear, leading to challenges in its treatment. In this research, a CP/CPPS rat model was established with complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), and berberine hydrochloride was administered through daily gavage to assess its therapeutic effects. The alterations in the gut microbiome induced by CP/CPPS and berberine hydrochloride were investigated through 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing of cecum content and colonic epithelial cells. To investigate the impact of the gut microbiome on CP/CPPS, a pseudo germ-free rat model was established, and fecal microbiome transplantation (FMT) was performed on these rats. In all, berberine hydrochloride demonstrated effective reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress in the prostate, offering significant therapeutic advantages for CP/CPPS. Through analysis of the gut microbiome using 16S ribosome RNA sequencing, distinct differences were observed between CP/CPPS rats and control rats, and Clostridium butyricum was identified as a key bacteria. Pseudo germ-free rats that underwent FMT from CP/CPPS rats or rats treated with berberine hydrochloride displayed varying levels of inflammatory cytokine production, oxidative stress, and activity of associated signaling pathways. In conclusion, the therapeutic potential of berberine hydrochloride in addressing CP/CPPS is highly significant. The gut microbiome has emerged as a critical factor in the development of CP/CPPS and plays a pivotal role in mediating the therapeutic effects of berberine hydrochloride.

Protective Role of Evolvulus Alsinoides Linn. on Chemical Induced Prostatitis in Male Albino Rats

“Evolvulus alsinoides Linn. (Vishnu Kiranti) plant is widely used as antibacterial and anthelmintic, anti-stress and anti-amnesic and a good memory tonic”.The present this study aimed to investigate the protective role of Evolvulus alsinoides L.on the inflammatory effects of AlCl3 induced prostatitis in rat model.Prostatitis was induced in male Wistar rats (n=24) treated with AlCl3 for 12 weeks. Following prostatitis induction, the rats were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups: normal control (NC-group), prostatitis (AlCl3-group), Evolvulusalsinoides methanolic extract (EAME group), and AlCl3+EAME group. The animals were giventheir routinediets throughout the study period. The parameters including Reproductive hormones, inflammatory markers and Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), were evaluated.The histopathological changes in the prostate were also studied. The results showed that there was a significant (p&lt;0.05) reduction in PSA levels and a significant (p&lt;0.05) increase in reproductive hormones, including LH, FSH, Progesterone, Testosterone, and Estradiol levels, in groups fed with EAME. The study concluded that the EAMEhad aneffective anti-inflammatory property, and histological examinations revealed a significant improvement in the prostatic histoarchitecture of groups fed EAME. Our research findings suggest that EAME is beneficial in the prevention and treatment of nonbacterial prostatitis.