Hedgehog pathway disruption alters urothelial differentiation and continence mechanisms in the female mouse lower urinary tract

American Journal of Physiology-Renal Physiology 2026 Open access

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Authors: Lindsey Felth Tanaka, Julia Tlapa, Jack Morrison, Tamryn Jordan, Monica Ridlon, Marcela Ambrogi, Jacob A. Kracke-Bock, Annelise Resende, Madisyn Sierra Eyman, Conrad Dean Blosch, Jody A Peter, Robert J. Lipinski
+2 more Walid A. Farhat, Kimberly P. Keil
DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00410.2025
Cited by: 0
References: 71

Abstract

This study identifies disrupted Hh signaling as a key determinant of female bladder and urethral contractility, providing new insights into molecular mechanisms maintaining continence. We observe impaired contractile responses to multiple stimuli, including urethral response to serotonin. In addition, we identify ectopic expression of uroplakin IIIa in urethra of Gli mutant mice, arising after prenatal development. By reducing—but not completely ablating—Hh signaling, we elucidate essential roles of this pathway in determining continence.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Urinary Bladder and Prostate Research Hedgehog Signaling Pathway Studies Urological Disorders and Treatments

Publication details

Journal / source
American Journal of Physiology-Renal Physiology
Volume
330
Issue
3
Pages
F294–F312
Publication date
28 January 2026
Language
EN