Changes of gap junctional cell-cell communication in overactive detrusor in rats

To evaluate the changes in intercellular communication through gap junctions in detrusor overactivity (DO), we studied 23 adult female Wistar rats with DO after partial outflow obstruction (DO group) and 13 sham-operated rats (control group). The two groups were compared by means of urodynamics, light and electron microscopy, expression of Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45 mRNA genes with RT-PCR, Cx43 protein with Western blot analysis, and functional intercellular communication with scrape loading dye transfer (SLDT) and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP). The number of gap junctions and the expression of connexin mRNA and Cx43 protein were increased in DO rats, and intercellular communication through gap junctions increased after 6 wk of partial outflow obstruction as assessed with SLDT and FRAP techniques. The findings provide a theoretical rationale for using Cx43 antagonists and gap junction inhibitors in the treatment of patients with overactive detrusor secondary to partial bladder outflow obstruction.