Potential role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of diabetic bladder dysfunction

Diabetic bladder dysfunction (DBD) is a common complication of diabetes. Hyperglycaemia-induced oxidative stress is thought to mediate functional changes in organs and tissues affected by DBD. In this Review, the authors provide an overview of mechanisms and consequences of oxidative stress, focusing on the role of diabetes-induced oxidative stress in generating dysfunctions at the level of the urothelium, smooth muscle contractility and nerve structures involved in DBD pathogenesis.