| First Author | Scott RS | Year | 2008 |
| Journal | Am J Physiol Cell Physiol | Volume | 295 |
| Issue | 2 | Pages | C324-31 |
| PubMed ID | 18562479 | Mgi Jnum | J:138623 |
| Mgi Id | MGI:3805608 | Doi | 10.1152/ajpcell.90622.2007 |
| Citation | Scott RS, et al. (2008) Role of desmin in active force transmission and maintenance of structure during growth of urinary bladder. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 295(2):C324-31 |
| abstractText | Role of the intermediate filament protein desmin in hypertrophy of smooth muscle was examined in desmin-deficient mice (Des(-/-)). A partial obstruction of the urethra was created, and after 9-19 days bladder weight increased approximately threefold in both Des(-/-) and wild type (Des(+/+)) animals. Bladder growth was associated with the synthesis of actin and myosin. In the hypertrophic Des(+/+) bladder, the relative content of desmin increased. In Des(-/-)mice, desmin was absent. No alterations in the amount of vimentin were observed. Although Des(-/-) obstructed bladders were capable of growth, they had structural changes with a partial disruption of the wall. Des(-/-)bladders had slightly lower passive stress and significantly lower active stress compared with Des(+/+). Des(-/-)preparations had lower shortening velocity. During hypertrophy, these structural and mechanical alterations in the Des(-/-)urinary bladder became more pronounced. In conclusion, desmin in the bladder smooth muscle is not needed for growth but has a role in active force transmission and maintenance of wall structure. |
