Role of KIT-Positive Interstitial Cells of Cajal in the Urinary Bladder and Possible Therapeutic Target for Overactive Bladder
2011

Role of KIT-Positive Interstitial Cells of Cajal in the Urinary Bladder and Possible Therapeutic Target for Overactive Bladder

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Yasue Kubota, Yoshiyuki Kojima, Yasuhiro Shibata, Makoto Imura, Shoichi Sasaki, Kenjiro Kohri

Primary Institution: Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences

Hypothesis

KIT-positive interstitial cells of Cajal may play a crucial role in the control of bladder function and could be a therapeutic target for overactive bladder.

Conclusion

KIT-positive interstitial cells of Cajal may be involved in bladder overactivity and could serve as a new therapeutic target for treatment.

Supporting Evidence

  • ICCs in the bladder may be involved in signal transmission between smooth muscle bundles and nerves.
  • Recent research suggests that KIT-positive ICCs may be therapeutic target cells to reduce bladder overactivity.
  • Imatinib mesylate, a c-kit receptor inhibitor, has shown potential in reducing bladder activity.

Takeaway

There are special cells in the bladder that help control how it works, and scientists think they might be able to help treat problems like needing to go to the bathroom too often.

Methodology

This review summarizes the distribution and function of KIT-positive interstitial cells in the bladder and discusses their potential as a therapeutic target for overactive bladder.

Limitations

The role of KIT in the urinary bladder is not fully clarified, and further investigation is needed.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1155/2011/816342

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