Laboratory of Pharmacology

Smooth muscle contractility changes in response to mechanical stretching caused by luminal contents in the gastrointestinal tract and bladder, a process mediated by mechanosensitive ion channels. However, the molecular identity of these channels remains unclear. Herein, we aim to elucidate the roles of Piezo channels, a newly discovered type of mechanosensitive nonselective cationic channels, in regulating gastrointestinal motility and detrusor activity.

The bladder has two main functions, i.e., storage and emptying of urine, which are controlled by the relaxation and contraction of detrusor smooth muscles, respectively. Abnormal smooth muscle contractility can cause urinary disorders, including OAB. The common symptoms of OAB include urinary urgency with or without incontinence and frequent urination. These symptoms can seriously affect the quality of life of patients by disrupting sleep, daily activities, and social interactions. Although detrusor overactivity is involved in the disease, the detailed pathophysiological mechanisms remain unclear. Thus, we aim to determine the mechanisms of detrusor overactivity in OAB.