Mouse models of bladder inflammation, termed cystitis, can be used to study urinary dysfunction and visceral pain in both sexes. Here, we present a protocol for a mouse model of cystitis that is induced by instilling acrolein directly into the urinary bladder using a transurethral catheter. We provide instructions for preparing the acrolein solution and catheterizing female and male mice. We then detail procedures for confirming the voiding dysfunction phenotype using the void spot assay. • Step-by-step protocol for urethral catheterization of male and female mice • Instructions for instillation of acrolein into the bladder to induce cystitis • Guidance for confirming cystitis phenotypes using the non-invasive void spot assay Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics. Mouse models of bladder inflammation, termed cystitis, can be used to study urinary dysfunction and visceral pain in both sexes. Here, we present a protocol for a mouse model of cystitis that is induced by instilling acrolein directly into the urinary bladder using a transurethral catheter. We provide instructions for preparing the acrolein solution and catheterizing female and male mice. We then detail procedures for confirming the voiding dysfunction phenotype using the void spot assay.
Stuedemann et al. (Sun,) studied this question.