Micturition defects and altered bladder function in the klotho mutant mouse model of aging

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Gerontology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Detrusor underactivity (DU) and underactive bladder (UAB) significantly reduce quality of life.
• Aging is the primary cause of DU and UAB.
• The Klotho gene is linked to aging phenotypes and expressed in the bladder.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of the Klotho gene in regulating bladder function.
• To examine bladder function in a premature aging rodent model with reduced Klotho expression.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Klotho mutant mice as a preclinical model of aging.
• Assessed micturition patterns (voiding frequency, volume) via metabolic cages and void spot assays.
• Performed histological analysis and in vitro bladder strip contractile response testing.

Main Results:

• Klotho mutant mice exhibited increased voiding frequency and decreased voiding volume, characteristic of aging bladders.
• Bladder tissue showed reduced contractile response to electrical stimulation and decreased muscarinic receptor expression.
• These findings indicate impaired bladder function in Klotho mutant mice.

Conclusions:

• Klotho mutant mice effectively model age-related bladder dysfunction.
• The model demonstrates rapid development of bladder dysfunction, offering a valuable tool for aging bladder research.
• This research provides insights into the genetic regulation of bladder aging.