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Updated: Feb 27, 2026
08:45
Utilizing Custom-designed Galvanotaxis Chambers to Study Directional Migration of Prostate Cells
Published on: December 7, 2014
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Role of prostatic interstitial cells in prostate motility
Richard J Lang1, Hikaru Hashitani2
1Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton Victoria 3800, Australia.
Summary
Prostatic interstitial cells (PICs) generate the prostate's spontaneous tone through calcium (Ca2+) signaling. This process, crucial for normal function, is uniquely dependent on L-type Ca2+ channels in PICs.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Physiology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in elder males causes lower urinary tract symptoms due to increased prostate stroma mass and myogenic tone.
- Prostate interstitial cells (PICs) are key to the prostate's spontaneous contractile activity.
- Understanding PIC function is vital for addressing BPH-related urinary issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of PICs in generating prostate spontaneous tone.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of Ca2+ signaling in PIC pacemaking.
- To present a model of prostatic pacemaking.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on PICs and Ca2+ signaling.
- Analysis of Ca2+ currents (I_CaT and I_CaL) in PICs.
- Presentation of a theoretical model for prostatic pacemaking.
Main Results:
- PICs exhibit distinct T-type (I_CaT) and L-type (I_CaL) Ca2+ currents.
- Unlike other interstitial cells, PIC pacemaking relies uniquely on I_CaL.
- A model shows I_CaL is triggered by I_CaT-mediated depolarization, leading to stromal contraction.
Conclusions:
- PICs are essential for prostate's intrinsic tone generation.
- The unique dependence on I_CaL in PICs offers potential therapeutic targets for BPH.
- Further research into this Ca2+ signaling pathway could improve BPH management.
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