Abstract

The current study aims to explore the possible correlations between detrusor excitability and the expression of C-kit and connexin-43 (Cx43). Fifty-two adult female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into the normal control (NC), supra-sacral cord injury (SSCI) and sacral cord injury (SCI) groups. Neurogenic bladder models were established. Urodynamic examination, bladder pathological observation and detrusor muscle excitability detection were performed. Meanwhile, the expression of C-kit and Cx43 was detected using immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. The detrusor leak point pressure of the SSCI group increased significantly compared to the NC group, whereas that of the SCI group decreased significantly. The spontaneous detrusor muscle contraction frequency of the SSCI group increased significantly compared to the NC group, whereas that of the SCI decreased significantly. The C-kit and Cx43 positive expression in the SSCI was significantly higher than that in the control group, whereas that in the SCI group was significantly lower (P < 0.01) The C-kit and Cx43 protein content in the SSCI group was significantly higher compared to the NC group, whereas that in the SCI group was significantly lower (P < 0.01). Changes in excitability and the expression of C-kit and Cx43 expression contribute to the occurrence of detrusor hyperreflexia and areflexia.

Key words: Spinal cord injuries, detrusor hyperreflexia, detrusor areflexia, urodynamics, C-kit, connexin-43.