Gastrointestinal and Bladder Disease Group
About the Gastrointestinal and Bladder Disease Group
Our studies are mainly concerned with the physiological and pathological roles of neurochemicals in human gut and bladder. Continuing studies are being carried out in colon specimens with diverticular disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and chronic constipation, in comparison with age- and region-matched specimens of “normal” colon. Immunohistochemistry is used to map neurochemicals and their receptors, which are characterized using molecular techniques and pharmacological techniques such as radioligand binding, transmitter release and smooth muscle contraction. In the bladder, there is increasing evidence that factors released from the urothelium play an important role in direct signalling to afferent nerves, myofibroblasts and the detrusor muscle. We hypothesise that these processes are altered in different bladder disorders, leading to symptoms of urgency, frequency, painful urge to empty the bladder, and/or urge incontinence.
Research Themes
Human Colon Disease Group: Dr Liu investigates the location, functions and receptors for several neurochemicals and inflammatory mediators, including tachykinins, cannabinoids, connexins and cyclooxygenase, in the human lower gastrointestinal tract.
Bladder Neurochemicals Group: Prof Burcher leading research on the urothelium (bladder lining), previously considered to be an inert barrier, now known to have contractile properties and to release the signalling molecular ATP in release to stretch, acid and capsaicin.
Overactive Bladder Group: A/Prof Moore and Millard are clinician scientists focussing on research into the aetiology and new effective therapies for overactive and painful bladder.
Major Researchers