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The neural control of micturition
Clare J Fowler1, Derek Griffiths, William C de Groat
1University College London, Department of Uro-Neurology, London, WC1N 3BG, UK. c.fowler@ion.ucl.ac.uk
Nature Reviews. Neuroscience
|May 21, 2008
Summary
Voluntary control of urination develops in childhood. Neurological conditions can disrupt this control, causing urinary incontinence due to abnormal urine storage and release.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Urology
Background:
- Micturition (urination) is involuntary in young children, becoming voluntary around ages 3-5.
- Complex neural circuitry involving the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system controls micturition.
- Neurological diseases or injuries in adults can re-establish involuntary micturition, leading to urinary incontinence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the neural control of micturition.
- To explain how disruptions in neural control cause abnormal urine storage and release.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of neural control of micturition.
Main Results:
- Micturition control involves distributed neural pathways and multiple neurotransmitters.
- Disruption of these pathways leads to impaired bladder function and incontinence.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the neural control of micturition is crucial for addressing urinary incontinence.
- Neurological impairment significantly impacts bladder function, necessitating further research into treatment strategies.
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