Changes in the Function and Expression of T-Type and N-Type Calcium Channels in the Rat Bladder after Bladder Outlet Obstruction

Abstract

Blocking T-type Ca(2+) channels increased bladder capacity while N-type Ca(2+) channel blockade inhibited nonvoiding contractions in rats with bladder outlet obstruction. Decreased bladder efferent neurotransmission occurred after bladder outlet obstruction, predominantly in its purinergic component and detrusor contractions via cholinergic neurotransmission were activated in a compensatory manner, probably via N-type Ca(2+) channel up-regulation.