Sex Steroid Receptors in Male Human Bladder: Expression and Biological Function

Our data indicate for the first time that estrogen-more than androgen-receptors up-regulate RhoA/ROCK signaling. Since an altered estrogen/androgen ratio characterizes conditions, such as aging, obesity and metabolic syndrome, often associated to LUTS, we speculate that a relative hyperestrogenism may induce bladder overactivity through the up-regulation of RhoA/ROCK pathway. Chavalmane AK, Comeglio P, Morelli A, Filippi S, Fibbi B, Vignozzi L, Sarchielli E, Marchetta M, Failli P, Sandner P, Saad F, Gacci M, Vannelli GB, and Maggi M. Sex steroid receptors in male human bladder: Expression and biological function.