Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) Channels in the Brain: the Good and the Ugly

Abstract

The ‘transient receptor potential’ (TRP) multigene family encodes sixspan membrane proteins that function as ion channels in mostly tetrameric structures. Members of this family are conserved from yeast, worm, fly to invertebrate, vertebrate and man. These channels have been stigmatized to function only as cell sensors occupied by sensory function. It turns out that TRP channels fulfil a plethora of cellular functions, including non-sensory functions in our brain. This short paper will highlight the advent of novel ion channels in the brain serving different functions and being significantly involved in the genesis of multiple diseases. We will certainly witness a plethora of the novel roles of this protein family in physiological and pathophysiological functions in our central nervous system.