Lipids as central modulators of sensory TRP channels

Biochim Biophys Acta Biomembr. 2017 Sep;1859(9 Pt B):1615-1628. doi: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.04.012. Epub 2017 Apr 18.

Abstract

The transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channel family is involved in a diversity of physiological processes including sensory and homeostatic functions, as well as muscle contraction and vasomotor control. Their dysfunction contributes to the etiology of several diseases, being validated as therapeutic targets. These ion channels may be activated by physical or chemical stimuli and their function is highly influenced by signaling molecules activated by extracellular signals. Notably, as integral membrane proteins, lipid molecules also modulate their membrane location and function either by direct interaction with the channel structure or by modulating the physico-chemical properties of the cellular membrane. This lipid-based modulatory effect is being considered an alternative and promising approach to regulate TRP channel dysfunction in diseases. Here, we review the current progress in this exciting field highlighting a complex channel regulation by a large diversity of lipid molecules and suggesting some diseases that may benefit from a membrane lipid therapy. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Membrane Lipid Therapy: Drugs Targeting Biomembranes edited by Pablo V. Escribá.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / drug therapy
  • Membrane Lipids / physiology*
  • Membrane Lipids / therapeutic use
  • Metabolic Diseases / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / drug therapy
  • Skin Diseases / drug therapy
  • Transient Receptor Potential Channels / physiology*

Substances

  • Membrane Lipids
  • Transient Receptor Potential Channels