Abstract
The urothelium, which covers the inner surface of the bladder, is
continuously exposed to a complex physical environment where it is
stimulated by and responds to a wide range of mechanical cues.
Mechanically activated ion channels allow the urothelium to convert
mechanical stimuli into biochemical events that influence its surface
area and the suburothelial tissues, including afferent nerve fibres,
interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) and detrusor smooth muscle cells.
This process ensures normal urinary function during the cycles of
filling and voiding. However, under prolonged and abnormal pathological
conditions, improper mechanotransduction may contribute to bladder
dysfunction, such as overactive bladder. In this review, we summarize
developments in the understanding of urothelial mechanotransduction.
First, we describe the adaptation of the urothelium to variations in
bladder volume during the micturition cycle via mechanotransduction
processes. Then, we review the effect of urothelial mechanotransduction
on suburothelial tissues. Finally, we focus on mechanically activated
ion channels present in the urothelium, primarily transient receptor
potential (TRP) channels and mechanosensitive Piezo channels, and the
potential pathophysiological role of these channels in the bladder. A
more thorough understanding of the urothelial mechanotransduction
function may inspire the creation of new therapies for lower urinary
tract diseases.