Effects of Prostaglandins on the Smooth Muscle of the Urinary Tract

A short review is given of the effects of prostaglandins on the smooth muscle of the bladder, urethra and ureter. In several animal species and in man, prostaglandins of the E and F types contract the detrusor. The contractions develop slowly and are not affected by tetrodotoxin, phenoxybenzamine, or atropine, suggesting a direct effect on the smooth muscle cell. However, evidence is also available suggesting a role of the prostaglandins as modulators of transmitter release in the bladder. In animals as well as in man, urethral smooth muscle is contracted by prostaglandin F2α, but relaxed by prostaglandins E1 and E2. The smooth muscle of the ureter seems to react similarly, but published results vary. The detailed mode of action, and the role of prostaglandins in the control of activity in urinary tract smooth muscle remain to be established.