Understanding how the bladder and urethral sphincter work together in mice
Intraspinal circuits supporting synergy between the bladder and urethral sphincter in mice
This study is looking at how spinal cord injuries change the way the bladder and the muscles that control urination work together, using mice to learn more about this issue, which could help us understand why some people have trouble urinating after such injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10841047 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the coordination between the bladder and the urethral sphincter, particularly focusing on how spinal cord injuries affect this interaction. Using advanced techniques like optogenetics and electrophysiology, the study will explore the neural circuits involved in bladder control in both male and female mice. By comparing responses in healthy and injured mice, researchers aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms of detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia, a condition that leads to inefficient urination. The findings could provide insights into sex differences in bladder function and dysfunction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with spinal cord injuries experiencing bladder control issues.
Not a fit: Patients without spinal cord injuries or those not experiencing bladder dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for bladder dysfunction in patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While this research builds on existing knowledge of bladder function, the specific use of transgenic mice and optogenetic techniques represents a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yoshimura, Naoki — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Yoshimura, Naoki
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.