Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Why a UTI hurts — and why that might be a good thing

Researchers have discovered a previously overlooked group of bladder nerves that help detect urinary tract infections and trigger the body's response to clear them. These nerves, located close to the bladder lining, act as an early warning system that springs into action during a UTI, helping to reduce severity and spread of infection.

SourceFlinders University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2026

A USC team is targeting the spinal cord to solve paralysis’ most overlooked problem

A USC team has created a neuroprosthetic device that can restore coordinated bladder control in small animal models, proof of concept for a future treatment that could transform lives after spinal cord injuries. The device targets the dorsolateral funiculus region of the spinal cord to mimic the natural signals that trigger the need to...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·TypeObservational study·DateApr 29, 2026

Immunotherapy shows early promise in sparing cancer patients from bladder removal

A phase 2 study led by NYU Langone Health showed that adding pembrolizumab to standard chemotherapy and radiation with surgery allowed 60% of patients to avoid bladder removal for up to two years post-treatment. This breakthrough treatment offers hope to patients with muscle-invasive urothelial cancer of the bladder.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalEuropean Urology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 22, 2026

USC Stem Cell scientists unlock blueprint for lab-grown kidney cells with preclinical value

USC Stem Cell scientists have developed a blueprint for generating specific kidney cell types on demand, holding immense value for preclinical studies of new therapeutics and congenital kidney diseases. The team successfully created lab-grown proximal tubule cells that can absorb sugar and protein, respond to chemotherapy drugs, and pr...

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2025

"Listening directly to the nerves" — personalized stimulation control mechanism for urinary disorder treatment (tibial nerve stimulation)

A joint research team from POSTECH and Hanyang University developed a personalized stimulation control mechanism using evoked compound action potential feedback mechanisms to treat urinary disorders. This technology enables precise adjustment of tibial nerve stimulation in real-time, based on individual nerve responses, improving patie...

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 2025

Disordered eating and certain foods linked to higher risk for urinary incontinence in middle-aged women

A recent study found that disordered eating is associated with a higher risk of symptoms of pelvic floor disorders in middle-aged women. The research revealed that consuming highly processed ready-made foods and fast food increases the risk for stress urinary incontinence, while a higher quality diet decreases the risk.

Relief could be on the way for UTI sufferers dealing with debilitating pain

Researchers have found that UTIs cause nerves in the bladder to become hypersensitive, resulting in painful sensations and frequent urination. This new study provides a deeper understanding of how UTIs affect bladder function and offers potential new treatment options for patients suffering from recurrent UTIs or other bladder conditions.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBrain Behavior & Immunity - Health·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2025

Gotta go? New bladder device lets you know

A new implant and smartphone app monitor bladder fullness in real time, offering a game-changer for people with paralysis, spina bifida, or end-stage bladder disease. The device's success has been demonstrated in small animal studies and non-human primate trials.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2024

Does SARS-CoV-2 infection have urological effects?

A study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine found that SARS-CoV-2 infection may worsen lower urinary tract symptoms in men. The research involved 17,986 men with medication for LUTS, half of whom had COVID-19, and showed a significant increase in urine retention, UTIs, and enlarged prostate issues.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateOct 18, 2023

Acute kidney injury not associated with worsening kidney function in persons with CKD

Researchers found that acute kidney injury does not predict worsening of kidney function trajectory in patients with CKD, suggesting that pre-existing kidney disease may be a major contributor. The study recommends focusing on flattening the eGFR slope and treating proteinuria to slow CKD progression.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJul 10, 2023

Systemic AL amyloidosis: Current approach and future direction

Researchers review current treatment updates for systemic light chain (AL) amyloidosis, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and effective maintenance therapy. The article discusses the relationship between AL amyloidosis and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 5, 2023