Role of Ion Channels in Urinary Bladder Smooth Muscle Function

This chapter discusses what is known about the functional and regulatory roles of Urinary bladder smooth muscle (UBSM) ion channel families located in the cell membrane, with emphasis on advancements in the field. It describes the complex interplay among the UBSM ion channels and their role in shaping the electrical and mechanical activity of UBSM in health and disease. The physiological functions of the urinary bladder—storage and voiding of urine—are facilitated by the contraction and relaxation of the urinary bladder smooth muscle (UBSM), which comprises the bladder wall. UBSM ion channels located in the cell membrane play an important role in determining the functional properties and are recognized potential novel pharmacological or genetic targets for treatment of overactive bladder/urinary tract symptoms. The central role played by K⁺ channels in modulating UBSM function derives from their functionally antagonistic relationship with the L-type voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels that deliver the extracellular Ca²⁺ influx necessary to activate contraction.