Neuro-Urology Research: A Comprehensive Overview

Neuro-Urology Research: A Comprehensive Overview describes the current status of the neuro-urology field including the latest discoveries, explains in detail some of the neuroscience tools that can be used when studying the neural control of the lower urinary tract, and discusses potential future directions for research. The first section, Neuroscience in Urology Research, reviews neuro-regulators and the important anatomical brain sites. It also provides an overview of voluntary versus reflex micturition control and describes how bladder physiology readout is a useful tool in research. The second section, Fundamental and Translational Neuro-Urology Research, discusses the translational potential of basic research for patients and the impact of neuro-urology research on clinical practice. Chapters in this section provide more insight into pathologies endemic to specific patient populations and areas for treatment development opportunities. The third section, Neurobiological Tools Applied to Neuro-Urology Research, supplements the ‘A Quick Guide to the "Neuroscience Toolbox"’ and introduces research techniques such as RNA sequencing and calcium imaging of neural activity. The fourth and final section, aptly titled Research Directions and Research Opportunities, covers research directions that remain underexplored or have high therapeutic potential. Research in neuro-urology presents a route to understanding how bladder function is controlled and how urinary continence is maintained. This book provides a platform for researchers to initiate collaborations on the many underexplored research topics and to consolidate knowledge, ultimately lending itself to a coordinated and multi-center research approach that will benefit the field. Presents a comprehensive overview of research studies in the field of neuro-urology Discusses approaches to conducting neuro-urology research, including models of lower urinary tract dysfunction and methods of tracking bladder physiology Proposes areas of research opportunity that, if explored, could yield effective treatment options for those affected by lower urinary tract disorders Includes an introductory guide to useful research tools and the "Neuroscience Toolbox", as well as chapters specifically about RNA sequencing techniques and imaging bladder-associated neural circuits