A mammalian capacitative calcium entry channel homologous to Drosophila TRP and TRPL

Structural and accessibility studies highlight the differential binding of clemizole to TRPC5 and TRPC6

Transient Receptor Potential Canonical 5 (T RP C5) and T RP C6 channels play critical physiological roles in various cell types. Their involvement in numerous disease progression mechanisms has led to extensive searches for their inhibitors. Although several potent T RP C inhibitors have been developed and the structure of their binding sites were mapped using cryo electron microscopy, a comprehensive understanding of the molecular interactions within the inhibitor binding site of T RP Cs remains elusive. This study aimed to decipher the structural determinants and molecular mechanisms contributing to the differential binding of clemizole to T RP C5 and T RP C6, with a particular focus on the accessibility of binding site residues. This information can help better understand what molecular features allow for selective binding, which is a key characteristic of clinically effective pharmacological agents. Using computational methodologies, we conducted an in-depth molecular docking analysis of clemizole with T RP C5 and T RP C6 channels. The protein structures were retrieved from publicly accessible protein databases. Discovery Studio 2020 Client Visualizer and Chimera software facilitated our in-silico mutation experiments and enabled us to identify the critical structural elements influencing clemizole binding. Our study reveals key molecular determinants at the clemizole binding site, specifically outlining the role of residues' Accessible Surface Area (ASA) and Relative Accessible Surface Area (RASA) in differential binding. We found that lower accessibility of T RP C6 binding site residues, compared to those in T RP C5, could account for the lower affinity binding of clemizole to T RP C6. This work illuminates the pivotal role of binding site residue accessibility in determining the affinity of clemizole to T RP C5 and T RP C6. A nuanced understanding of the distinct binding properties between these homologous proteins may pave the way for the development of more selective inhibitors, promising improved therapeutic efficacy and fewer off-target effects. By demystifying the structural and molecular subtleties of T RP C inhibitors, this research could significantly accelerate the drug discovery process, offering hope to patients afflicted with T RP C-related diseases.

Regulatory mechanisms controlling store-operated calcium entry

Calcium influx through plasma membrane ion channels is crucial for many events in cellular physiology. Cell surface stimuli lead to the production of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), which binds to IP3 receptors (IP3R) in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to release calcium pools from the ER lumen. This leads to the depletion of ER calcium pools, which has been termed store depletion. Store depletion leads to the dissociation of calcium ions from the EF-hand motif of the ER calcium sensor Stromal Interaction Molecule 1 (STIM1). This leads to a conformational change in STIM1, which helps it to interact with the plasma membrane (PM) at ER:PM junctions. At these ER:PM junctions, STIM1 binds to and activates a calcium channel known as Orai1 to form calcium release-activated calcium (CRAC) channels. Activation of Orai1 leads to calcium influx, known as store-operated calcium entry (SOCE). In addition to Orai1 and STIM1, the homologs of Orai1 and STIM1, such as Orai2/3 and STIM2, also play a crucial role in calcium homeostasis. The influx of calcium through the Orai channel activates a calcium current that has been termed the CRAC current. CRAC channels form multimers and cluster together in large macromolecular assemblies termed "puncta". How CRAC channels form puncta has been contentious since their discovery. In this review, we will outline the history of SOCE, the molecular players involved in this process, as well as the models that have been proposed to explain this critical mechanism in cellular physiology.

Pharmacological Differences between Native Homomeric Transient Receptor Potential Canonical Type 4 Channels and Heteromeric Transient Receptor Potential Canonical Type 1/4 Channels in Lateral Septal Neurons

Given the unique expression patterns and revelations of its critical involvement in a host of neurological disorders, the TRPC1/4/5 subgroup has become an intense target of drug development, and some compounds are now in clinical trials. However, little is known about the exact subunit composition of this subfamily of TRPC channels in various native tissues, and whether it has functional and pharmacological implications. In this study, we investigated the effects of two TRPC4 modulators located in the lateral septum, in which a metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) agonist-induced plateau potential is mediated by TRPC channels composed of TRPC1 and TRPC4. Lateral septal neurons were recorded intracellularly in brain slices using sharp electrodes. Drugs were applied via bath superfusion. We showed that the plateau potential in mice lacking TRPC1 is modulated by ML204 and La3+ in a manner that is like homomeric TRPC4 channels in artificial expression systems. However, the plateau potential that is primarily mediated by heteromeric TRPC1/4 channels in lateral septal neurons in wildtype mice was modulated differently by ML204 and La3+. Our data suggest that native homomeric TRPC4 channels and heteromeric TRPC1/4 channels are pharmacologically distinct, and the current drug development strategy regarding TRPC1/4/5 may need to be reevaluated.

The Molecular Heterogeneity of Store-Operated Ca(2+) Entry in Vascular Endothelial Cells: The Different roles of Orai1 and TRPC1/TRPC4 Channels in the Transition from Ca(2+)-Selective to Non-Selective Cation Currents

Store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE) is activated in response to the inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP₃)-dependent depletion of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca²⁺ store and represents a ubiquitous mode of Ca²⁺ influx. In vascular endothelial cells, SOCE regulates a plethora of functions that maintain cardiovascular homeostasis, such as angiogenesis, vascular tone, vascular permeability, platelet aggregation, and monocyte adhesion. The molecular mechanisms responsible for SOCE activation in vascular endothelial cells have engendered a long-lasting controversy. Traditionally, it has been assumed that the endothelial SOCE is mediated by two distinct ion channel signalplexes, i.e., STIM1/Orai1 and STIM1/Transient Receptor Potential Canonical 1(TRPC1)/TRPC4. However, recent evidence has shown that Orai1 can assemble with TRPC1 and TRPC4 to form a non-selective cation channel with intermediate electrophysiological features. Herein, we aim at bringing order to the distinct mechanisms that mediate endothelial SOCE in the vascular tree from multiple species (e.g., human, mouse, rat, and bovine). We propose that three distinct currents can mediate SOCE in vascular endothelial cells: (1) the Ca²⁺-selective Ca²⁺-release activated Ca²⁺ current (I_CRAC), which is mediated by STIM1 and Orai1; (2) the store-operated non-selective current (I_SOC), which is mediated by STIM1, TRPC1, and TRPC4; and (3) the moderately Ca²⁺-selective, I_CRAC-like current, which is mediated by STIM1, TRPC1, TRPC4, and Orai1.

Effect of menstrual cycle and female hormones on TRP and TREK channels in modifying thermosensitivity and physiological functions in women

Thermoregulation is crucial for human survival at various ambient temperatures. Transient receptor potential (TRP) and TWIK-related K⁺ (TREK) channels expressed in sensory neurons play a role in peripheral thermosensitivity for temperature detection. In addition, these channels have various physiological roles in the skeletal, nervous, immune, vascular, digestive, and urinary systems. In women, the female hormones estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4), which fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, affect various physiological functions, such as thermoregulation in hot and cold environments. The present review describes the effect of female hormones on TRP and TREK channels and related physiological functions. The P4 decreased thermosensitivity via TRPV1. E2 facilitates temporomandibular joint disease (TRPV1), breast cancer (TRPM8), and calcium absorption in the digestive system (TRPV5 and TRPV6), inhibits the facilitation of vasoconstriction (TRPM3), nerve inflammation (TRPM4), sweetness sensitivity (TRPM5), and menstrual disorders (TRPC1), and prevents insulin resistance (TRPC5) via each channel. P4 inhibits vasoconstriction (TRPM3), sweetness sensitivity (TRPM5), ciliary motility in the lungs (TRPV4), menstrual disorder (TRPC1), and immunity (TRPC3), and facilitates breast cancer (TRPV6) via each channel as indicated. The effects of female hormones on TREK channels and physiological functions are still under investigation. In summary, female hormones influence physiological functions via some TRP channels; however, the literature is not comprehensive and future studies are needed, especially those related to thermoregulation in women.

Transient Receptor Potential Canonical (TRPC) Channels: Then and Now

Twenty-five years ago, the first mammalian Transient Receptor Potential Canonical (TRPC) channel was cloned, opening the vast horizon of the TRPC field. Today, we know that there are seven TRPC channels (TRPC1-7). TRPCs exhibit the highest protein sequence similarity to the Drosophila melanogaster TRP channels. Similar to Drosophila TRPs, TRPCs are localized to the plasma membrane and are activated in a G-protein-coupled receptor-phospholipase C-dependent manner. TRPCs may also be stimulated in a store-operated manner, via receptor tyrosine kinases, or by lysophospholipids, hypoosmotic solutions, and mechanical stimuli. Activated TRPCs allow the influx of Ca2+ and monovalent alkali cations into the cytosol of cells, leading to cell depolarization and rising intracellular Ca2+ concentration. TRPCs are involved in the continually growing number of cell functions. Furthermore, mutations in the TRPC6 gene are associated with hereditary diseases, such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. The most important recent breakthrough in TRPC research was the solving of cryo-EM structures of TRPC3, TRPC4, TRPC5, and TRPC6. These structural data shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying TRPCs' functional properties and propelled the development of new modulators of the channels. This review provides a historical overview of the major advances in the TRPC field focusing on the role of gene knockouts and pharmacological tools.

TRPCs: Influential Mediators in Skeletal Muscle

Ca²⁺ itself or Ca²⁺-dependent signaling pathways play fundamental roles in various cellular processes from cell growth to death. The most representative example can be found in skeletal muscle cells where a well-timed and adequate supply of Ca²⁺ is required for coordinated Ca²⁺-dependent skeletal muscle functions, such as the interactions of contractile proteins during contraction. Intracellular Ca²⁺ movements between the cytosol and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) are strictly regulated to maintain the appropriate Ca²⁺ supply in skeletal muscle cells. Added to intracellular Ca²⁺ movements, the contribution of extracellular Ca²⁺ entry to skeletal muscle functions and its significance have been continuously studied since the early 1990s. Here, studies on the roles of channel proteins that mediate extracellular Ca²⁺ entry into skeletal muscle cells using skeletal myoblasts, myotubes, fibers, tissue, or skeletal muscle-originated cell lines are reviewed with special attention to the proposed functions of transient receptor potential canonical proteins (TRPCs) as store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE) channels under normal conditions and the potential abnormal properties of TRPCs in muscle diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

TRPC channels: Structure, function, regulation and recent advances in small molecular probes

Transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels constitute a group of receptor-operated calcium-permeable nonselective cation channels of the TRP superfamily. The seven mammalian TRPC members, which can be further divided into four subgroups (TRPC1, TRPC2, TRPC4/5, and TRPC3/6/7) based on their amino acid sequences and functional similarities, contribute to a broad spectrum of cellular functions and physiological roles. Studies have revealed complexity of their regulation involving several components of the phospholipase C pathway, G_i and G_o proteins, and internal Ca²⁺ stores. Recent advances in cryogenic electron microscopy have provided several high-resolution structures of TRPC channels. Growing evidence demonstrates the involvement of TRPC channels in diseases, particularly the link between genetic mutations of TRPC6 and familial focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Because TRPCs were discovered by the molecular identity first, their pharmacology had lagged behind. This is rapidly changing in recent years owning to great efforts from both academia and industry. A number of potent tool compounds from both synthetic and natural products that selective target different subtypes of TRPC channels have been discovered, including some preclinical drug candidates. This review will cover recent advancements in the understanding of TRPC channel regulation, structure, and discovery of novel TRPC small molecular probes over the past few years, with the goal of facilitating drug discovery for the study of TRPCs and therapeutic development.

Post-Translational Modification and Natural Mutation of TRPC Channels

Transient Receptor Potential Canonical (TRPC) channels are homologues of Drosophila TRP channel first cloned in mammalian cells. TRPC family consists of seven members which are nonselective cation channels with a high Ca²⁺ permeability and are activated by a wide spectrum of stimuli. These channels are ubiquitously expressed in different tissues and organs in mammals and exert a variety of physiological functions. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) including phosphorylation, N-glycosylation, disulfide bond formation, ubiquitination, S-nitrosylation, S-glutathionylation, and acetylation play important roles in the modulation of channel gating, subcellular trafficking, protein-protein interaction, recycling, and protein architecture. PTMs also contribute to the polymodal activation of TRPCs and their subtle regulation in diverse physiological contexts and in pathological situations. Owing to their roles in the motor coordination and regulation of kidney podocyte structure, mutations of TRPCs have been implicated in diseases like cerebellar ataxia (moonwalker mice) and focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The aim of this review is to comprehensively integrate all reported PTMs of TRPCs, to discuss their physiological/pathophysiological roles if available, and to summarize diseases linked to the natural mutations of TRPCs.

TRPC1 as a negative regulator for TRPC4 and TRPC5 channels

Transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels are calcium permeable, non-selective cation channels with wide tissue-specific distribution. Among 7 TRPC channels, TRPC 1/4/5 and TRPC3/6/7 are subdivided based on amino acid sequence homology. TRPC4 and TRPC5 channels exhibit cationic current with homotetrameric form, but they also form heterotetrameric channel such as TRPC1/4 or TRPC1/5 once TRPC1 is incorporated. The expression of TRPC1 is ubiquitous whereas the expressions of TRPC4 and TRPC5 are rather focused in nervous system. With the help of conditional knock-out of TPRC1, 4 and/or 5 genes, TRPC channels made of these constituents are reported to be involved in various pathophysiological functions such as seizure, anxiety-like behaviour, fear, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease and many others. In heterologous expression system, many issues such as activation mechanism, stoichiometry and relative cation permeabilites of homomeric or heteromeric channels have been addressed. In this review, we discussed the role of TRPC1 channel per se in plasma membrane, role of TRPC1 in heterotetrameric conformation (TRPC1/4 or TRPC1/5) and relationship between TRPC1/4/5 channels, calcium influx and voltage-gated calcium channels.

Englerin A-sensing charged residues for transient receptor potential canonical 5 channel activation

The transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) 5 channel, known as a nonselective cation channel, has a crucial role in calcium influx. TRPC5 has been reported to be activated by muscarinic receptor activation and extracellular pH change and inhibited by the protein kinase C pathway. Recent studies have also suggested that TRPC5 is extracellularly activated by englerin A (EA), but the mechanism remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to identify the EA-interaction sites in TRPC5 and thereby clarify the mechanism of TRPC5 activation. TRPC5 channels are over-expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. TRPC5 mutants were generated by site-directed mutagenesis. The whole-cell patch-clamp configuration was used to record TRPC5 currents. Western analysis was also performed to observe the expression of TRPC5 mutants. To identify the EA-interaction site in TRPC5, we first generated pore mutants. When screening the mutants with EA, we observed the EA-induced current increases of TRPC5 abolished in K554N, H594N, and E598Q mutants. The current increases of other mutants were reduced in different levels. We also examined the functional intactness of the mutants that had no effect by EA with TRPC5 agonists, such as carbachol or GTPγS. Our results suggest that the three residues, Lys-554, His-594, and Glu-598, in TRPC5 might be responsible for direct interaction with EA, inducing the channel activation. We also suggest that although other pore residues are not critical, they could partly contribute to the EA-induced channel activation.

TRPC-mediated Ca2+ signaling and control of cellular functions

Canonical members of the TRP superfamily of ion channels have long been recognized as key elements of Ca²⁺ handling in a plethora of cell types. The emerging role of TRPC channels in human physiopathology has generated considerable interest in their pharmacological targeting, which requires detailed understanding of their molecular function. Although consent has been reached that receptor-phospholipase C (PLC) pathways and generation of lipid mediators constitute the prominent upstream signaling process that governs channel activity, multimodal sensing features of TRPC complexes have been demonstrated repeatedly. Downstream signaling by TRPC channels is similarly complex and involves the generation of local and global cellular Ca²⁺ rises, which are well-defined in space and time to govern specific cellular functions. These TRPC-mediated Ca²⁺ signals rely in part on Ca²⁺ permeation through the channels, but are essentially complemented by secondary mechanisms such as Ca²⁺ mobilization from storage sites and Na⁺/Ca²⁺ exchange, which involve coordinated interaction with signaling partners. Consequently, the control of cell functions by TRPC molecules is critically determined by dynamic assembly and subcellular targeting of the TRPC complexes. The very recent availability of high-resolution structure information on TRPC channel complexes has paved the way towards a comprehensive understanding of signal transduction by TRPC channels. Here, we summarize current concepts of cation permeation in TRPC complexes, TRPC-mediated shaping of cellular Ca²⁺ signals and the associated control of specific cell functions.

Emerging Roles of Diacylglycerol-Sensitive TRPC4/5 Channels

Transient receptor potential classical or canonical 4 (TRPC4) and TRPC5 channels are members of the classical or canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) channel family of non-selective cation channels. TRPC4 and TRPC5 channels are widely accepted as receptor-operated cation channels that are activated in a phospholipase C-dependent manner, following the G_q/11 protein-coupled receptor activation. However, their precise activation mechanism has remained largely elusive for a long time, as the TRPC4 and TRPC5 channels were considered as being insensitive to the second messenger diacylglycerol (DAG) in contrast to the other TRPC channels. Recent findings indicate that the C-terminal interactions with the scaffolding proteins Na⁺/H⁺ exchanger regulatory factor 1 and 2 (NHERF1 and NHERF2) dynamically regulate the DAG sensitivity of the TRPC4 and TRPC5 channels. Interestingly, the C-terminal NHERF binding suppresses, while the dissociation of NHERF enables, the DAG sensitivity of the TRPC4 and TRPC5 channels. This leads to the assumption that all of the TRPC channels are DAG sensitive. The identification of the regulatory function of the NHERF proteins in the TRPC4/5-NHERF protein complex offers a new starting point to get deeper insights into the molecular basis of TRPC channel activation. Future studies will have to unravel the physiological and pathophysiological functions of this multi-protein channel complex.

Electron cryo-microscopy structure of the canonical TRPC4 ion channel

Canonical transient receptor channels (TRPC) are non-selective cation channels. They are involved in receptor-operated Ca²⁺ signaling and have been proposed to act as store-operated channels (SOC). Their malfunction is related to cardiomyopathies and their modulation by small molecules has been shown to be effective against renal cancer cells. The molecular mechanism underlying the complex activation and regulation is poorly understood. Here, we report the electron cryo-microscopy structure of zebrafish TRPC4 in its unliganded (apo), closed state at an overall resolution of 3.6 Å. The structure reveals the molecular architecture of the cation conducting pore, including the selectivity filter and lower gate. The cytoplasmic domain contains two key hubs that have been shown to interact with modulating proteins. Structural comparisons with other TRP channels give novel insights into the general architecture and domain organization of this superfamily of channels and help to understand their function and pharmacology.

TRPC Channel Structure and Properties

TRPC channels are the first identified members in the TRP family. They function as either homo- or heterotetramers regulating intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration in response to numerous physiological or pathological stimuli. TRPC channels are nonselective cation channels permeable to Ca²⁺. The properties and the functional domains of TRPC channels have been identified by electrophysiological and biochemical methods. However, due to the large size, instability, and flexibility of their complexes, the structures of the members in TRPC family remain unrevealed. More efforts should be made on structure analysis and generating good tools, including specific antibodies, agonist, and antagonist.

Calcium permeability of transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) 4 channels measured by TRPC4-GCaMP6s

Conflicting evidence has been obtained regarding whether transient receptor potential cation channels (TRPC) are store-operated channels (SOCs) or receptor-operated channels (ROCs). Moreover, the Ca/Na permeability ratio differs depending on whether the current-voltage (I-V) curve has a doubly rectifying shape or inward rectifying shape. To investigate the calcium permeability of TRPC4 channels, we attached GCaMP6s to TRPC4 and simultaneously measured the current and calcium signals. A TRPC4 specific activator, (–)-englerin A, induced both current and calcium fluorescence with the similar time course. Muscarinic receptor stimulator, carbachol, also induced both current and calcium fluorescence with the similar time course. By forming heteromers with TRPC4, TRPC1 significantly reduced the inward current with outward rectifying I-V curve, which also caused the decrease of calcium fluorescence intensity. These results suggest that GCaMP6s attached to TRPC4 can detect slight calcium changes near TRPC4 channels. Consequently, TRPC4-GCaMP6s can be a useful tool for testing the calcium permeability of TRPC4 channels.

The functions of store-operated calcium channels

Store-operated calcium channels provide calcium signals to the cytoplasm of a wide variety of cell types. The basic components of this signaling mechanism include a mechanism for discharging Ca²⁺ stores (commonly but not exclusively phospholipase C and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate), a sensor in the endoplasmic reticulum that also serves as an activator of the plasma membrane channel (STIM1 and STIM2), and the store-operated channel (Orai1, 2 or 3). The advent of mice genetically altered to reduce store-operated calcium entry globally or in specific cell types has provided important tools to understand the functions of these widely encountered channels in specific and clinically important physiological systems. This review briefly discusses the history and cellular properties of store-operated calcium channels, and summarizes selected studies of their physiological functions in specific physiological or pathological contexts. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: ECS Meeting edited by Claus Heizmann, Joachim Krebs and Jacques Haiech.

PERK regulates Gq protein-coupled intracellular Ca2+ dynamics in primary cortical neurons

PERK (EIF2AK3) is an ER-resident eIF2α kinase required for behavioral flexibility and metabotropic glutamate receptor-dependent long-term depression via its translational control. Motivated by the recent discoveries that PERK regulates Ca²⁺ dynamics in insulin-secreting β-cells underlying glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, and modulates Ca²⁺ signals-dependent working memory, we explored the role of PERK in regulating G_q protein-coupled Ca²⁺ dynamics in pyramidal neurons. We found that acute PERK inhibition by the use of a highly specific PERK inhibitor reduced the intracellular Ca²⁺ rise stimulated by the activation of acetylcholine, metabotropic glutamate and bradykinin-2 receptors in primary cortical neurons. More specifically, acute PERK inhibition increased IP₃ receptor mediated ER Ca²⁺ release, but decreased receptor-operated extracellular Ca²⁺ influx. Impaired G_q protein-coupled intracellular Ca²⁺ rise was also observed in genetic Perk knockout neurons. Taken together, our findings reveal a novel role of PERK in neurons, which is eIF2α-independent, and suggest that the impaired working memory in forebrain-specific Perk knockout mice may stem from altered G_q protein-coupled intracellular Ca²⁺ dynamics in cortical pyramidal neurons.

Ocular transient receptor potential channel function in health and disease

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels sense and transduce environmental stimuli into Ca(2+) transients that in turn induce responses essential for cell function and adaptation. These non-selective channels with variable Ca(2+) selectivity are grouped into seven different subfamilies containing 28 subtypes based on differences in amino acid sequence homology. Many of these subtypes are expressed in the eye on both neuronal and non-neuronal cells where they affect a host of stress-induced regulatory responses essential for normal vision maintenance. This article reviews our current knowledge about the expression, function and regulation of TRPs in different eye tissues. We also describe how under certain conditions TRP activation can induce responses that are maladaptive to ocular function. Furthermore, the possibility of an association between TRP mutations and disease is considered. These findings contribute to evidence suggesting that drug targeting TRP channels may be of therapeutic benefit in a clinical setting. We point out issues that must be more extensively addressed before it will be possible to decide with certainty that this is a realistic endeavor. Another possible upshot of future studies is that disease process progression can be better evaluated by profiling changes in tissue specific functional TRP subtype activity as well as their gene and protein expression.

From GTP and G proteins to TRPC channels: a personal account

By serendipity and good fortune, as a postdoctoral fellow in 1967, I landed at the right place at the right time, as I was allowed to investigate the mechanism by which hormones activate the enzyme adenylyl cyclase (then adenyl cyclase) in Martin Rodbell's Laboratory at the NIH in Bethesda, Maryland. The work uncovered first, the existence of receptors separate from the enzyme and then, the existence of transduction mechanisms requiring guanosine-5'-triphosphate (GTP) and Mg(2+). With my laboratory colleagues first and postdoctoral fellows after leaving NIH, I participated in the development of the field "signal transduction by G proteins," uncovered by molecular cloning several G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and became interested in both the molecular makeup of voltage-gated Ca channels and Ca2+ homeostasis downstream of activation of phospholipase C (PLC) by the Gq/11 signaling pathway. We were able to confirm the hypothesis that there would be mammalian homologues of the Drosophila "transient receptor potential" channel and discovered the existence of six of the seven mammalian genes, now called transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels. In the present article, I summarize from a bird's eye view of what I feel were key findings along this path, not only from my laboratory but also from many others, that allowed for the present knowledge of cell signaling involving G proteins to evolve. Towards the end, I summarize roles of TRPC channels in health and disease.

Canonical transient receptor potential 4 and its small molecule modulators

Canonical transient receptor potential 4 (TRPC4) forms non-selective cation channels that contribute to phospholipase C-dependent Ca(2+) entry into cells following stimulation of G protein coupled receptors and receptor tyrosine kinases. Moreover, the channels are regulated by pertussis toxin-sensitive Gi/o proteins, lipids, and various other signaling mechanisms. TRPC4-containing channels participate in the regulation of a variety of physiological functions, including excitability of both gastrointestinal smooth muscles and brain neurons. This review is to present recent advances in the understanding of physiology and development of small molecular modulators of TRPC4 channels.

Physiological Function and Characterization of TRPCs in Neurons

Ca²⁺ entry is essential for regulating vital physiological functions in all neuronal cells. Although neurons are engaged in multiple modes of Ca²⁺ entry that regulates variety of neuronal functions, we will only discuss a subset of specialized Ca²⁺-permeable non-selective Transient Receptor Potential Canonical (TRPC) channels and summarize their physiological and pathological role in these excitable cells. Depletion of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca²⁺ stores, due to G-protein coupled receptor activation, has been shown to activate TRPC channels in both excitable and non-excitable cells. While all seven members of TRPC channels are predominately expressed in neuronal cells, the ion channel properties, mode of activation, and their physiological responses are quite distinct. Moreover, many of these TRPC channels have also been suggested to be associated with neuronal development, proliferation and differentiation. In addition, TRPCs also regulate neurosecretion, long-term potentiation and synaptic plasticity. Similarly, perturbations in Ca²⁺ entry via the TRPC channels have been also suggested in a spectrum of neuropathological conditions. Hence, understanding the precise involvement of TRPCs in neuronal function and in neurodegenerative conditions would presumably unveil avenues for plausible therapeutic interventions for these devastating neuronal diseases.

The role of canonical transient receptor potential channels in seizure and excitotoxicity

Canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) channels are a family of polymodal cation channels with some degree of Ca²⁺ permeability. Although initially thought to be channels mediating store-operated Ca²⁺ influx, TRPC channels can be activated by stimulation of Gq-coupled G-protein coupled receptors, or by an increase in intracellular free Ca²⁺ concentration. Thus, activation of TRPC channels could be a common downstream event of many signaling pathways that contribute to seizure and excitotoxicity, such as N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor-mediated Ca²⁺ influx, or metabotropic glutamate receptor activation. Recent studies with genetic ablation of various TRPC family members have demonstrated that TRPC channels, in particular heteromeric TRPC1/4 channels and homomeric TRPC5 channels, play a critical role in both pilocarpine-induced acute seizures and neuronal cell death. However, exact underlying mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated, and selective TRPC modulators and antibodies with better specificity are urgently needed for future research.

Trans-activation response (TAR) RNA-binding protein 2 is a novel modulator of transient receptor potential canonical 4 (TRPC4) protein

TRPC4 proteins function as Ca(2+) conducting, non-selective cation channels in endothelial, smooth muscle, and neuronal cells. To further characterize the roles of TRPC4 in vivo, detailed information about the molecular composition of native channel complexes and their association with cellular signaling networks is needed. Therefore, a mouse brain cDNA library was searched for novel TRPC4-interacting proteins using a modified yeast two-hybrid assay. This screen identified Trans-activation Response RNA-binding protein 2 (Tarpb2), a protein that recruits the Dicer complex to Ago2 for microRNA processing and gene silencing. Tarbp2 was found to bind to the C terminus of TRPC4 and TRPC5 and to modulate agonist-dependent TRPC4-induced Ca(2+) entry. A stretch of basic residues within the Tarbp2 protein is required for these actions. Tarbp2 binding to and modulation of TRPC4 occurs in the presence of endogenously expressed Dicer but is no longer detectable when the Dicer cDNA is overexpressed. Dicer activity in crude cell lysates is increased in the presence of Ca(2+), most probably by Ca(2+)-dependent proteolytic activation of Dicer. Apparently, Tarbp2 binding to TRPC4 promotes changes of cytosolic Ca(2+) and, thereby, leads to a dynamic regulation of Dicer activity, essentially at low endogenous Dicer concentrations.

TRPC5

Human canonical transient receptor potential channel 5 (TRPC5) has been cloned from the Xq23 region on chromosome X as a suspect in nonsyndromic mental retardation. TRPC5 is a Ca(2+)-permeable cation channel predominantly expressed in the CNS, including the hippocampus, cerebellum, amygdala, sensory neurons, and retina. It also shows more restricted expression in the periphery, notably in the kidney and cardiovascular system. Homotetrameric TRPC5 channels are primarily activated by receptors coupled to Gq and phospholipase C and/or Gi proteins, but TRPC5 channels may also gate in a store-dependent manner, which requires other partner proteins such TRPC1, STIM1, and Orai1. There is an impressive array of other activators of TRPC5 channels, such as nitric oxide, lysophospholipids, sphingosine-1-phosphate, reduced thioredoxin, protons, lanthanides, and calcium, and many can cause its direct activation. Moreover, TRPC5 shows constitutive activity, and it is responsive to membrane stretch and cold. Thus, TRPC5 channels have significant potential for synergistic activation and may serve as an important focal point in Ca(2+) signalling and electrogenesis. Moreover, TRPC5 functions in partnership with about 60 proteins, including TRPC1, TRPC4, calmodulin, IP3 receptors, NHERF, NCS-1, junctate, stathmin 2, Ca(2+)-binding protein 1, caveolin, and SESTD1, while its desensitisation is mediated by both protein kinases A and C. TRPC5 has a distinct voltage dependence shared only with its closest relative, TRPC4. Its unique N-shaped activation curve underlined by intracellular Mg(2+) block seems to be perfectly "shaped" to trigger action potential discharge, but not to grossly interfere with the action potential shape. The range of biological functions of TRPC5 channels is also impressive, from neurotransmission to control of axon guidance and vascular smooth muscle cell migration and contractility. Recent studies of Trpc5 gene knockouts begin to uncover its roles in fear, anxiety, seizures, and cold sensing.

TRPC4- and TRPC4-containing channels

TRPC4 proteins comprise six transmembrane domains, a putative pore-forming region, and an intracellularly located amino- and carboxy-terminus. Among eleven splice variants identified so far, TRPC4α and TRPC4β are the most abundantly expressed and functionally characterized. TRPC4 is expressed in various organs and cell types including the soma and dendrites of numerous types of neurons; the cardiovascular system including endothelial, smooth muscle, and cardiac cells; myometrial and skeletal muscle cells; kidney; and immune cells such as mast cells. Both recombinant and native TRPC4-containing channels differ tremendously in their permeability and other biophysical properties, pharmacological modulation, and mode of activation depending on the cellular environment. They vary from inwardly rectifying store-operated channels with a high Ca(2+) selectivity to non-store-operated channels predominantly carrying Na(+) and activated by Gαq- and/or Gαi-coupled receptors with a complex U-shaped current-voltage relationship. Thus, individual TRPC4-containing channels contribute to agonist-induced Ca(2+) entry directly or indirectly via depolarization and activation of voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels. The differences in channel properties may arise from variations in the composition of the channel complexes, in the specific regulatory pathways in the corresponding cell system, and/or in the expression pattern of interaction partners which comprise other TRPC proteins to form heteromultimeric channels. Additional interaction partners of TRPC4 that can mediate the activity of TRPC4-containing channels include (1) scaffolding proteins (e.g., NHERF) that may mediate interactions with signaling molecules in or in close vicinity to the plasma membrane such as Gα proteins or phospholipase C and with the cytoskeleton, (2) proteins in specific membrane microdomains (e.g., caveolin-1), or (3) proteins on cellular organelles (e.g., Stim1). The diversity of TRPC4-containing channels hampers the development of specific agonists or antagonists, but recently, ML204 was identified as a blocker of both recombinant and endogenous TRPC4-containing channels with an IC50 in the lower micromolar range that lacks activity on most voltage-gated channels and other TRPs except TRPC5 and TRPC3. Lanthanides are specific activators of heterologously expressed TRPC4- and TRPC5-containing channels but can block individual native TRPC4-containing channels. The biological relevance of TRPC4-containing channels was demonstrated by knockdown of TRPC4 expression in numerous native systems including gene expression, cell differentiation and proliferation, formation of myotubes, and axonal regeneration. Studies of TRPC4 single and TRPC compound knockout mice uncovered their role for the regulation of vascular tone, endothelial permeability, gastrointestinal contractility and motility, neurotransmitter release, and social exploratory behavior as well as for excitotoxicity and epileptogenesis. Recently, a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the Trpc4 gene was associated with a reduced risk for experience of myocardial infarction.

Differential regulation of TRPC4 in the vasopressin magnocellular system by water deprivation and hepatic cirrhosis in the rat

Transient receptor potential canonical subtype 4 (TRPC4) is expressed in the magnocellular paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and supraoptic nucleus (SON) of the hypothalamus. In this study, the regulation of TRPC4 expression was investigated in water deprivation and hepatic cirrhosis. We used laser capture microdissection technique for precise dissection of pure AVP cell population in the PVN and SON followed by quantitative real-time RT-PCR, and immunodetection techniques by Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence. Bile duct ligation elevated TRPC4 transcripts in the SON but not PVN with correlated changes in the protein expression in these regions, as well as increased colocalization with AVP in the SON, with no changes in the PVN. Water deprivation resulted in increased TRPC4 mRNA expression in the PVN, while it decreased channel expression levels in the SON. In both of these regions, protein expression measured from tissue punches were unaltered following water deprivation, with no changes in the number of TRPC4-positive cells. Thus, TRPC4 expression is differentially regulated in physiological and pathophysiological models of vasopressin release.

TRP channel Ca(2+) sparklets: fundamental signals underlying endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization

Important functions of the vascular endothelium, including permeability, production of antithrombotic factors, and control of vascular tone, are regulated by changes in intracellular Ca(2+). The molecular identities and regulation of Ca(2+) influx channels in the endothelium are incompletely understood, in part because of experimental difficulties associated with application of patch-clamp electrophysiology to native endothelial cells. However, advances in confocal and total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy and the development of fast, high-affinity Ca(2+)-binding fluorophores have recently allowed for direct visualization and characterization of single-channel transient receptor potential (TRP) channel Ca(2+) influx events in endothelial cells. These events, called "TRP channel Ca(2+) sparklets," have been optically recorded from primary endothelial cells and the intact endothelium, and the biophysical properties and fundamental significance of these Ca(2+) signals in vasomotor regulation have been characterized. This review will first briefly discuss the role of endothelial cell TRP channel Ca(2+) influx in endothelium-dependent vasodilation, describe improved methods for recording unitary TRP channel activity using optical methods, and highlight discoveries regarding the regulation and physiological significance of TRPV4 Ca(2+) sparklets in the vascular endothelium enabled by this new technology. Perspectives on the potential use of these techniques to evaluate changes in TRP channel Ca(2+) influx activity associated with endothelial dysfunction are offered.

Activation of TRPC4β by Gαi subunit increases Ca2+ selectivity and controls neurite morphogenesis in cultured hippocampal neuron

The ubiquitous transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels function as non-selective, Ca(2+)-permeable channels. TRPC channels are activated by stimulation of Gαq-PLC-coupled receptors. Here, we report that TRPC4/TRPC5 can be activated by Gαi. We studied the essential role of Gαi subunits in TRPC4 activation and investigated changes in ion selectivity and pore dilation of the TRPC4 channel elicited by the Gαi2 subunit. Activation of TRPC4 by Gαi2 increased Ca2+ permeability and Ca2+ influx through TRPC4 channels. Co-expression of the muscarinic receptor (M2) and TRPC4 in HEK293 cells induced TRPC4-mediated Ca2+ influx. Moreover, both TRPC4β and the TRPC4β-Gαi2 signaling complex induced inhibition of neurite growth and arborization in cultured hippocampal neurons. Cells treated with KN-93, a CaMKII inhibitor, prevented TRPC4- and TRPC4-Gαi2(Q205L)-mediated inhibition of neurite branching and growth. These findings indicate an essential role of Gαi proteins in TRPC4 activation and extend our knowledge of the functional role of TRPC4 in hippocampal neurons.

Conserved gating elements in TRPC4 and TRPC5 channels

TRPC4 and TRPC5 proteins share 65% amino acid sequence identity and form Ca(2+)-permeable nonselective cation channels. They are activated by stimulation of receptors coupled to the phosphoinositide signaling cascade. Replacing a conserved glycine residue within the cytosolic S4-S5 linker of both proteins by a serine residue forces the channels into an open conformation. Expression of the TRPC4G503S and TRPC5G504S mutants causes cell death, which could be prevented by buffering the Ca(2+) of the culture medium. Current-voltage relationships of the TRPC4G503S and TRPC5G504S mutant ion channels resemble that of fully activated TRPC4 and TRPC5 wild-type channels, respectively. Modeling the structure of the transmembrane domains and the pore region (S4-S6) of TRPC4 predicts a conserved serine residue within the C-terminal sequence of the predicted S6 helix as a potential interaction site. Introduction of a second mutation (S623A) into TRPC4G503S suppressed the constitutive activation and partially rescued its function. These results indicate that the S4-S5 linker is a critical constituent of TRPC4/C5 channel gating and that disturbance of its sequence allows channel opening independent of any sensor domain.

Regulation of store-operated calcium entry by FK506-binding immunophilins

Calcium entry from the extracellular space into cells is an important signaling mechanism in both physiological and pathophysiological functions. In non-excitable cells, store-operated calcium (SOC) entry represents a principal mode of calcium entry. Activation of SOC entry in pulmonary artery endothelial cells leads to the formation of inter-endothelial cell gaps and subsequent endothelial barrier disruption. Regulation of endothelial SOC entry is poorly understood. In this work, we identify two large molecular weight immunophilins, FKBP51 and FKBP52, as novel regulators of SOC entry in endothelial cells. Using cell fractionation studies and immunocytochemistry we determined that a fraction of these largely cytosolic proteins localize to the plasma membrane where SOC entry channels are found. That FKBP51 and FKBP52 associate with SOC entry channel protein complexes was supported by co-precipitation of the immunophilins with TRPC4, a subunit of the calcium-selective, SOC entry channel ISOC. Dexamethasone-induced upregulation of FKBP51 expression in pulmonary artery endothelial cells reduced global SOC entry as well as ISOC. Similar results were observed when FKBP51 was over-expressed in an inducible HEK293 cell line. On the other hand, when FKBP52 was over-expressed SOC entry was enhanced. When expression of FKBP52 was inhibited, SOC entry was decreased. Collectively, our observations support regulatory roles for these large molecular weight immunophilins in which FKBP51 inhibits, whereas FKBP52 enhances, SOC entry in endothelial cells.

Heteromeric canonical transient receptor potential 1 and 4 channels play a critical role in epileptiform burst firing and seizure-induced neurodegeneration

Canonical transient receptor potential channels (TRPCs) are receptor-operated cation channels that are activated in response to phospholipase C signaling. Although TRPC1 is ubiquitously expressed in the brain, TRPC4 expression is the most restrictive, with the highest expression level limited to the lateral septum. The subunit composition of neuronal TRPC channels remains uncertain because of conflicting data from recombinant expression systems. Here we report that the large depolarizing plateau potential that underlies the epileptiform burst firing induced by metabotropic glutamate receptor agonists in lateral septal neurons was completely abolished in TRPC1/4 double-knockout mice, and was abolished in 74% of lateral septal neurons in TRPC1 knockout mice. Furthermore, neuronal cell death in the lateral septum and the cornu ammonis 1 region of hippocampus after pilocarpine-induced severe seizures was significantly ameliorated in TRPC1/4 double-knockout mice. Our data suggest that both TRPC1 and TRPC4 are essential for an intrinsic membrane conductance mediating the plateau potential in lateral septal neurons, possibly as heteromeric channels. Moreover, excitotoxic neuronal cell death, an underlying process for many neurological diseases, is not mediated merely by ionotropic glutamate receptors but also by heteromeric TRPC channels activated by metabotropic glutamate receptors. TRPC channels could be an unsuspected but critical molecular target for clinical intervention for excitotoxicity.

Redox regulation of endothelial canonical transient receptor potential channels

The endothelium is a highly dynamic structure lining the inside of blood vessels that exhibits physical and chemical properties that are critical determinants of overall vascular function. Physically, the endothelium constitutes a semipermeable barrier. Chemically, the endothelium synthesizes numerous factors such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can act as autocrine and paracrine signaling molecules. Oxidative stress results when ROS levels increase to levels that cause cellular injury, and, in the endothelium oxidative stress leads to barrier disruption. Endothelial barrier disruption also results from increased cytosolic calcium through store-operated calcium (SOC) entry channels. Although it is known that ROS can interact with and regulate some ion channels, relatively little is known about the interaction of these species with components of endothelial SOC entry channels, the canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) proteins. Here we review our current understanding of ROS-mediated TRPC channel function and how it affects SOC entry and endothelial barrier disruption.

SOC and now also SIC: store-operated and store-inhibited channels

There is a specialized form of calcium influx that involves a close communication between endoplasmic reticulum and the channels at the plasma membrane. In one side store depletion activates channels known as store-operated channels (SOC), which are responsible of the well-studied store-operated calcium entry (SOCE). SOC comprises two different types of channels. Orai, which is exclusively activated by store depletion being the channel responsible of the calcium release-activated calcium current, and transient receptor potential canonical channel, which in contrast, is activated by store depletion only under specific conditions and carries nonselective cationic currents. On the other hand, it has been recently shown that store depletion also inhibits calcium channels. The first member identified, of what we named as store-inhibited channels (SIC), is the L-type voltage-gated calcium channel. Stores control both SOC and SIC by means of the multifunctional protein STIM1. The identification of SOC and SIC opens a new scenario for the role of store depletion in the modulation of different calcium entry pathways, which may satisfy different cellular processes.

The TRPC ion channels: association with Orai1 and STIM1 proteins and participation in capacitative and non-capacitative calcium entry

Transient receptor potential (TRP) proteins are involved in a large number of non-selective cation channels that are permeable to both monovalent and divalent cations. Two general classes of receptor-mediated Ca(2+) entry has been proposed: one of then is conduced by receptor-operated Ca(2+) channels (ROC), the second is mediated by channels activated by the emptying of intracellular Ca(2+) stores (store-operated channels or SOC). TRP channels have been presented as subunits of both ROC and SOC, although the precise mechanism that regulates the participation of TRP proteins in these Ca(2+) entry mechanisms remains unclear. Recently, TRPC proteins have been shown to associate with Orai1 and STIM1 in a dynamic ternary complex regulated by the occupation of membrane receptors in several cell models, which might play an important role in the function of TRPC proteins. The present review summarizes the current knowledge concerning the association of TRP proteins with Orai and STIM proteins and how this affects the participation of TRP proteins in store-operated or receptor-operated Ca(2+) entry.

The phospholipid-binding protein SESTD1 is a novel regulator of the transient receptor potential channels TRPC4 and TRPC5

TRPC4 and TRPC5 are two closely related members of the mammalian transient receptor potential cation channel family that have been implicated in important physiological functions, such as growth cone guidance and smooth muscle contraction. To further unravel the role of TRPC4 and TRPC5 in these processes in vivo, detailed information about the molecular composition of native channel complexes and their association with cellular signaling networks is needed. We therefore searched a human aortic cDNA library for novel TRPC4-interacting proteins using a modified yeast two-hybrid assay. This screen identified SESTD1, a previously uncharacterized protein containing a lipid-binding SEC14-like domain as well as spectrin-type cytoskeleton interaction domains. SESTD1 was found to associate with TRPC4 and TRPC5 via the channel's calmodulin- and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor-binding domain. In functional studies, we demonstrate that SESTD1 binds several phospholipid species in vitro and is essential for efficient receptor-mediated activation of TRPC5. Notably, phospholipid binding to SESTD1 was Ca(2+)-dependent. Because TRPC4 and -5 conduct Ca(2+), SESTD1-channel signaling may be bidirectional and also couple TRPC activity to lipid signaling through SESTD1. The modulation of TRPC channel function by specific lipid-binding proteins, such as SESTD1, adds another facet to the complex regulation of these channels complementary to the previously described effects of direct channel-phospholipid interaction.

Regulation of TRPC1 and TRPC4 cation channels requires an alpha1-syntrophin-dependent complex in skeletal mouse myotubes

The dystrophin-associated protein complex (DAPC) is essential for skeletal muscle, and the lack of dystrophin in Duchenne muscular dystrophy results in a reduction of DAPC components such as syntrophins and in fiber necrosis. By anchoring various molecules, the syntrophins may confer a role in cell signaling to the DAPC. Calcium disorders and abnormally elevated cation influx in dystrophic muscle cells have suggested that the DAPC regulates some sarcolemmal cationic channels. We demonstrated previously that mini-dystrophin and alpha1-syntrophin restore normal cation entry in dystrophin-deficient myotubes and that sarcolemmal TRPC1 channels associate with dystrophin and the bound PDZ domain of alpha1-syntrophin. This study shows that small interfering RNA (siRNA) silencing of alpha1-syntrophin dysregulated cation influx in myotubes. Moreover, deletion of the PDZ-containing domain prevented restoration of normal cation entry by alpha1-syntrophin transfection in dystrophin-deficient myotubes. TRPC1 and TRPC4 channels are expressed at the sarcolemma of muscle cells; forced expression or siRNA silencing showed that cation influx regulated by alpha1-syntrophin is supported by TRPC1 and TRPC4. A molecular association was found between TRPC1 and TRPC4 channels and the alpha1-syntrophin-dystrophin complex. TRPC1 and TRPC4 channels may form sarcolemmal channels anchored to the DAPC, and alpha1-syntrophin is necessary to maintain the normal regulation of TRPC-supported cation entry in skeletal muscle. Cation channels with DAPC form a signaling complex that modulates cation entry and may be crucial for normal calcium homeostasis in skeletal muscles.

The TRPC class of ion channels: a critical review of their roles in slow, sustained increases in intracellular Ca(2+) concentrations

The realization that there exists a multimembered family of cation channels with structural similarity to Drosophila's Trp channel emerged during the second half of the 1990s. In mammals, depending on the species, the TRP family counts 29 or 30 members which has been subdivided into 6 subfamilies on the basis of sequence similarity. TRP channels are nonselective monovalent cation channels, most of which also allow passage of Ca(2+). Many members of each of these families, but not all, are involved in sensory signal transduction. The C-type (for canonical or classical) subfamily, differs from the other TRP subfamilies in that it fulfills two different types of function: membrane depolarization, resembling sensory transduction TRPs, and mediation of sustained increases in intracellular Ca(2+). The mechanism(s) by which the C-class of TRP channels-the TRPCs-are activated is poorly understood and their role in mediating intracellular Ca(2+) increases is being questioned. Both of these questions-mechanism of activation and participation in Ca(2+) entry-are the topics of this review.

TRPC channels and store-operated Ca(2+) entry

Store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) is a major mechanism for Ca(2+) influx. Since SOCE was first proposed two decades ago many techniques have been used in attempting to identify the nature of store-operated Ca(2+) (SOC) channels. The first identified and best-characterised store-operated current is I(CRAC), but a number of other currents activated by Ca(2+) store depletion have also been described. TRPC proteins have long been proposed as SOC channel candidates; however, whether any of the TRPCs function as SOC channels remains controversial. This review attempts to provide an overview of the arguments in favour and against the role of TRPC proteins in the store-operated mechanisms of agonist-activated Ca(2+) entry.

Canonical transient receptor potential 5 channel in conjunction with Orai1 and STIM1 allows Sr2+ entry, optimal influx of Ca2+, and degranulation in a rat mast cell line

Degranulation of mast cells in response to Ag or the calcium mobilizing agent, thapsigargin, is dependent on emptying of intracellular stores of Ca(2+) and the ensuing influx of external Ca(2+), also referred to as store-operated calcium entry. However, it is unlikely that the calcium release-activated calcium channel is the sole mechanism for the entry of Ca(2+) because Sr(2+) and other divalent cations also permeate and support degranulation in stimulated mast cells. In this study we show that influx of Ca(2+) and Sr(2+) as well as degranulation are dependent on the presence of the canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) channel protein TRPC5, in addition to STIM1 and Orai1, as demonstrated by knock down of each of these proteins by inhibitory RNAs in a rat mast cell (RBL-2H3) line. Overexpression of STIM1 and Orai1, which are known to be essential components of calcium release-activated calcium channel, allows entry of Ca(2+) but not Sr(2+), whereas overexpression of STIM1 and TRPC5 allows entry of both Ca(2+) and Sr(2+). These and other observations suggest that the Sr(2+)-permeable TRPC5 associates with STIM1 and Orai1 in a stoichiometric manner to enhance entry of Ca(2+) to generate a signal for degranulation.

Potentiation of TRPC5 by protons

Mammalian members of the classical transient receptor potential channel subfamily (TRPC) are Ca(2+)-permeable cation channels involved in receptor-mediated increases in intracellular Ca(2+). TRPC4 and TRPC5 form a group within the TRPC subfamily and are activated in a phospholipase C-dependent manner by an unidentified messenger. Unlike most other Ca(2+)-permeable channels, TRPC4 and -5 are potentiated by micromolar concentrations of La(3+) and Gd(3+). This effect results from an action of the cations at two glutamate residues accessible from the extracellular solution. Here, we show that TRPC4 and -5 respond to changes in extracellular pH. Lowering the pH increased both G protein-activated and spontaneous TRPC5 currents. Both effects were already observed with small reductions in pH (from 7.4 to 7.0) and increased up to pH 6.5. TRPC4 was also potentiated by decreases in pH, whereas TRPC6 was only inhibited, with a pIC(50) of 5.7. Mutation of the glutamate residues responsible for lanthanoid sensitivity of TRPC5 (E543Q and E595Q) modified the potentiation of TRPC5 by acid. Further evidence for a similarity in the actions of lanthanoids and H(+) on TRPC5 is the reduction in single channel conductance and dramatic increase in channel open probability in the presence of either H(+) or Gd(3+) that leads to larger integral currents. In conclusion, the high sensitivity of TRPC5 to H(+) indicates that, in addition to regulation by phospholipase C and other factors, the channel may act as a sensor of pH that links decreases in extracellular pH to Ca(2+) entry and depolarization.

Store-operated Ca2+ entry and TRPC expression; possible roles in cardiac pacemaker tissue

Store-operated Ca(2+) channels (SOCCs) were first identified in non-excitable cells by the observation that depletion of Ca(2+) stores caused increased influx of extracellular Ca(2+). Recent studies have suggested that SOCCs might be related to the transient receptor potential (TRPC) gene family. The mechanism of cardiac pacemaking involves voltage-dependent pacemaker current; in addition there is growing evidence that intracellular sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) release plays an important role. In the present short review we assess preliminary evidence for Ca(2+) entry related to SR store depletion and expression of TRPCs in pacemaker tissue. These newer findings suggest that Ca(2+) entry and inward current triggered by store depletion might also contribute to the pacemaker current. Many hormones, drugs and interventions such as ischaemia and stretch, which alter Ca(2+) handling, will also modulate pacemaker firing thought their effect on SOCCs.

TRPCs as MS Channels

This chapter reviews recent evidence indicating that canonical or classical transient receptor potential (TRPC) channels are directly or indirectly mechanosensitive (MS) and can therefore be designated as mechano-operated channels (MOCs). The MS functions of TRPCs may be mechanistically related to their better known functions as store-operated and receptor-operated channels (SOCs and ROCs). Mechanical forces may be conveyed to TRPC channels through the "conformational coupling" mechanism that transmits information regarding the status of internal Ca(2+) stores. All TRPCs are regulated by receptors coupled to phospholipases that are themselves MS and can regulate channels via lipidic second messengers. Accordingly, there may be several nonexclusive mechanisms by which mechanical forces may regulate TRPC channels, including direct sensitivity to bilayer mechanics, physical coupling to internal membranes and/or cytoskeletal proteins, and sensitivity to lipidic second messengers generated by MS enzymes. Various strategies that can be used for separating out different MS-gating mechanisms and their possible role in specific TRPCs are discussed.