cGMP‐generating cells in the bladder wall: identification of distinct networks of interstitial cells

Abstract

There are structures within the bladder wall that can be identified and categorized by the ability of the constituent cells to increase intracellular cGMP in response to NO; these cells have been defined as ICs. Two distinct networks were identified, one associated with the outer muscle layers and another lying immediately beneath the urothelium, predominantly in the base of the bladder. The functions of these cells and networks are unknown; their possible roles in complex motor activity, urothelial signalling and bladder pathophysiology are discussed.