Urinary Neurotrophin Levels as Potential Biomarkers for Overactive Bladder: A Prospective Study

Background: Overactive bladder (OAB) is an issue in the field of urology that is known for causing symptoms like urges to urinate frequently during the day and even at night (known as nocturia). Nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) play a vital role in the growth and operation of nerve cells in the body. New studies are indicating a connection between these neurotrophins and OAB; As such this research project was undertaken to explore how levels of NGT and BDNF in urine might be related to the presence of OAB in individuals. Methods: This investigation employed a case-control design, enrolling 44 individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of OAB and an equal number of healthy participants as the control group. Urine samples were collected from all participants, and levels of NGF and BDNF were quantified. To account for fluctuations in urine concentration, NGF/creatinine (Cr) and BDNF/Cr ratios were also determined. Results: Our research findings revealed that individuals experiencing bladder (OAB) showed increased urinary NGF levels (statistically significant, at p < 0.001). This disparity remained consistent after adjusting for creatinine levels; There were higher NGF/Cr (statistically significant, at p = 0.001) and BDNF/Cr (statistically significant, at p < 0.001) ratios in the OAB group compared to the control group. Additionally we noted a relationship between urine NGF/Cr levels and the presence of OAB (statistically significant, at p < 0.001; Correlation coefficient: +0.686). Urine BDNF/Cr levels showed a correlation with OAB (correlation coefficient of +0.461; p value < 0.001). In OAB prediction, the NGF/Cr cutoff value was found to be 0.87, the NGF cutoff value was 180.02 pg/mL, and the BDNF/Cr ratio was 0.19. Conclusions: Elevated urinary NGF and BDNF levels are associated with OAB, suggesting a potential role for these neurotrophic factors in the pathogenesis of the condition. Further research is warranted to explore their potential as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. © 2024 The Author(s).