Neurochemistry and Brain Structure
The locus coeruleus (LC) and the paraventricular nucleus in afflicted cats have been found to possess higher levels of tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity, suggesting that these brain sites may be areas of high catecholamine synthesis. Consistent with this, elevated levels of catecholamines have been found in afflicted cats both at rest and during high stress situations as well. Desensitization of α2-adrenoceptors found in the LC, spinal cord, and bladder mucosa have been found in felines with FIC. α2-adrenoceptors normally regulate the flow of blood to the bladder and inhibit catecholamine release and pain perception to the brain. Chronic stimulation yields desensitized receptors and may lead to potent inflammatory responses in FIC felines. Felines with FIC also have abnormalities in corticotropin stimulation and larger adrenal medullary areas, suggesting that they are susceptible to over stimulation to the sympathetic nervous system.
Read more about this topic: Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
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