TRPA1 is a substrate for de-ubiquitination by the tumor suppressor CYLD

Allyl Isothiocyanate Maintains DHA-Containing Glycerophospholipids and Ameliorates the Cognitive Function Decline in OVX Mice

Low-temperature-induced fatty acid desaturation is highly conserved in animals, plants, and bacteria. Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) is an agonist of the transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), which is activated by various chemophysiological stimuli, including low temperature. However, whether AITC induces fatty acid desaturation remains unknown. We showed here that AITC increased levels of glycerophospholipids (GP) esterified with unsaturated fatty acids, especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in TRPA1-expressing HEK cells. Additionally, GP-DHA including phosphatidylcholine (18:0/22:6) and phosphatidylethanolamine (18:0/22:6) was increased in the brain and liver of AITC-administered mice. Moreover, intragastrical injection of AITC in ovariectomized (OVX) female C57BL/6J mice dose-dependently shortened the Δlatency time determined by the Morris water maze test, indicating AITC ameliorated the cognitive function decline in these mice. Thus, the oral administration of AITC maintains GP-DHA in the liver and brain, proving to be a potential strategy for preventing cognitive decline.

TRPA1 promotes UVB-induced skin pigmentation by regulating melanosome luminal pH

Melanocytes stimulated by ultraviolet radiation (UVR) produce melanin and melanosomes, which causes skin pigmentation and acts as an important physiological defence process for photoprotection. Neutral luminal pH of melanosomes is critical for providing optimal conditions for the rate-limiting, pH-sensitive melanin synthesizing enzyme tyrosinase (TYR). As a major component of extraocular phototransduction pathway, transient receptor potential ankyrin1 (TRPA1) can be activated by ultraviolet B (UVB) and reported to be expressed in melanocytes. However, whether TRPA1 is involved in the regulation of melanogenesis remains unclear. Melanogenic activity of TRPA1 was evaluated in primary normal human epidermal melanocytes (HEMs) and murine B16-F10 cell cultures, and the effects of topical applications of TRPA1 specific agonist and antagonist on UVB-induced skin pigmentation were confirmed on in vivo guinea pig models. Calcium (Ca²⁺ ) imaging and pH imaging were performed to analyse the effects of TRPA1 on intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration ([Ca²⁺ ]_ic ) and melanosome luminal pH. TRPA1 regulated melanin synthesis, UVB-induced Ca²⁺ influx and melanosome luminal pH in HEMs and B16-F10 cells. Topical treatment of TRPA1 specific agonist JT010 increased UVB-induced skin pigmentation in guinea pigs, while topical using of TRPA1 selective antagonist HC-030031 mitigated such pigmentation. Our results indicated that TRPA1 activated by UVB enhanced the skin pigmentation, most likely by regulating the [Ca²⁺ ]_ic and the melanosomal pH, consequently influencing the enzymatic activity of TYR. Therefore, the results suggest TRPA1 as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of skin pigmented disorders that are at high risk under UVB irradiation.

Inhibition of TRPA1 Ameliorates Periodontitis by Reducing Periodontal Ligament Cell Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis via PERK/eIF2α/ATF-4/CHOP Signal Pathway

Objective

In periodontitis, excessive oxidative stress combined with subsequent apoptosis and cell death further exacerbated periodontium destruction. TRPA1, an important transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channel, may participate in the process. This study is aimed at exploring the role and the novel therapeutic function of TRPA1 in periodontitis.

Methods

Periodontal ligament cells or tissues derived from healthy and periodontitis (PDLCs/Ts and P-PDLCs/Ts) were used to analyze the oxidative and apoptotic levels and TRPA1 expression. TRPA1 inhibitor (HC030031) was administrated in inflammation induced by P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (P.g.LPS) to investigate the oxidative and apoptotic levels of PDLCs. The morphology of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria was identified by transmission electron microscope, and the PERK/eIF2α/ATF-4/CHOP signal pathways were detected. Finally, HC030031 was administered to periodontitis mice to evaluate its effect on apoptotic and oxidative levels in the periodontium and the relieving of periodontitis.

Results

The oxidative, apoptotic levels and TRPA1 expression were higher in P-PDLC/Ts from periodontitis patients and in P.g.LPS-induced inflammatory PDLCs. TRPA1 inhibitor significantly decreased the intracellular calcium, oxidative stress, and apoptosis of inflammatory PDLCs and decreased ER stress by downregulating PERK/eIF2α/ATF-4/CHOP pathways. Meanwhile, the overall calcium ion decrease induced by EGTA also exerted similar antiapoptosis and antioxidative stress functions. In vivo, HC030031 significantly reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis in the gingiva and periodontal ligament, and less periodontium destruction was observed.

Conclusion

TRPA1 was highly related to periodontitis, and TRPA1 inhibitor significantly reduced oxidative and apoptotic levels in inflammatory PDLCs via inhibiting ER stress by downregulating PERK/eIF2α/ATF-4/CHOP pathways. It also reduced the oxidative stress and apoptosis in periodontitis mice thus ameliorating the development of periodontitis.

An Overview of the TRP-Oxidative Stress Axis in Metabolic Syndrome: Insights for Novel Therapeutic Approaches

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a complex pathology characterized by visceral adiposity, insulin resistance, arterial hypertension, and dyslipidaemia. It has become a global epidemic associated with increased consumption of high-calorie, low-fibre food and sedentary habits. Some of its underlying mechanisms have been identified, with hypoadiponectinemia, inflammation and oxidative stress as important factors for MS establishment and progression. Alterations in adipokine levels may favour glucotoxicity and lipotoxicity which, in turn, contribute to inflammation and cellular stress responses within the adipose, pancreatic and liver tissues, in addition to hepatic steatosis. The multiple mechanisms of MS make its clinical management difficult, involving both non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are non-selective calcium channels involved in a plethora of physiological events, including energy balance, inflammation and oxidative stress. Evidence from animal models of disease has contributed to identify their specific contributions to MS and may help to tailor clinical trials for the disease. In this context, the oxidative stress sensors TRPV1, TRPA1 and TRPC5, play major roles in regulating inflammatory responses, thermogenesis and energy expenditure. Here, the interplay between these TRP channels and oxidative stress in MS is discussed in the light of novel therapies to treat this syndrome.

Presence of TRPA1 Modifies CD4+/CD8+ T Lymphocyte Ratio and Activation

Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) has been reported to influence neuroinflammation and lymphocyte function. We analysed the immune phenotype and activation characteristics of TRPA1-deficient mice (knockout—KO) generated by targeted deletion of the pore-loop domain of the ion channel. We compared TRPA1 mRNA and protein expression in monocyte and lymphocyte subpopulations isolated from primary and secondary lymphatic organs of wild type (WT) and KO mice. qRT-PCR and flow cytometric studies indicated a higher level of TRPA1 in monocytes than in lymphocytes, but both were orders of magnitude lower than in sensory neurons. We found lower CD4+/CD8+ thymocyte ratios, diminished CD4/CD8 rates, and B cell numbers in the KO mice. Early activation marker CD69 was lower in CD4+ T cells of KO, while the level of CD8+/CD25+ cells was higher. In vitro TcR-mediated activation did not result in significant differences in CD69 level between WT and KO splenocytes, but lower cytokine (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-17A, IL-22, and RANTES) secretion was observed in KO splenocytes. Basal intracellular Ca²⁺ level and TcR-induced Ca²⁺ signal in T lymphocytes did not differ significantly, but interestingly, imiquimod-induced Ca²⁺ level in KO thymocytes was higher. Our results support the role of TRPA1 in the regulation of activation, cytokine production, and T and B lymphocytes composition in mice.

TRPA1: Pharmacology, natural activators and role in obesity prevention

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channel is a calcium permeable, non-selective cation channel, expressed in the sensory neurons and non-neuronal cells of different tissues. Initially studied for its role in pain and inflammation, TRPA1 has now functionally involved in multiple other physiological functions. TRPA1 channel has been extensively studied for modulation by pungent compounds present in the spices and herbs. In the last decade, the role of TRPA1 agonism in body weight reduction, secretion of hunger and satiety hormones, insulin secretion and thermogenesis, has unveiled the potential of the TRPA1 channel to be used as a preventive target to tackle obesity and associated comorbidities including insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes. In this review, we summarized the recent findings of TRPA1 based dietary/non-dietary modulation for its role in obesity prevention and therapeutics.

TRPA1 Expression and Pathophysiology in Immune Cells

The non-selective cation channel TRPA1 is best known as a broadly-tuned sensor expressed in nociceptive neurons, where it plays key functions in chemo-, thermo-, and mechano-sensing. However, in this review we illustrate how this channel is expressed also in cells of the immune system. TRPA1 has been detected, mainly with biochemical techniques, in eosinophils, mast cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, T cells, and B cells, but not in neutrophils. Functional measurements, in contrast, remain very scarce. No studies have been reported in basophils and NK cells. TRPA1 in immune cells has been linked to arthritis (neutrophils), anaphylaxis and atopic dermatitis (mast cells), atherosclerosis, renal injury, cardiac hypertrophy and inflammatory bowel disease (macrophages), and colitis (T cells). The contribution of TRPA1 to immunity is dual: as detector of cell stress, tissue injury, and exogenous noxious stimuli it leads to defensive responses, but in conditions of aberrant regulation it contributes to the exacerbation of inflammatory conditions. Future studies should aim at characterizing the functional properties of TRPA1 in immune cells, an essential step in understanding its roles in inflammation and its potential as therapeutic target.

The Hypothermic Effect of Hydrogen Sulfide Is Mediated by the Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin-1 Channel in Mice

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) has been shown in previous studies to cause hypothermia and hypometabolism in mice, and its thermoregulatory effects were subsequently investigated. However, the molecular target through which H₂S triggers its effects on deep body temperature has remained unknown. We investigated the thermoregulatory response to fast-(Na₂S) and slow-releasing (GYY4137) H₂S donors in C57BL/6 mice, and then tested whether their effects depend on the transient receptor potential ankyrin-1 (TRPA1) channel in Trpa1 knockout (Trpa1^−/−) and wild-type (Trpa1^+/+) mice. Intracerebroventricular administration of Na₂S (0.5–1 mg/kg) caused hypothermia in C57BL/6 mice, which was mediated by cutaneous vasodilation and decreased thermogenesis. In contrast, intraperitoneal administration of Na₂S (5 mg/kg) did not cause any thermoregulatory effect. Central administration of GYY4137 (3 mg/kg) also caused hypothermia and hypometabolism. The hypothermic response to both H₂S donors was significantly (p < 0.001) attenuated in Trpa1^−/− mice compared to their Trpa1^+/+ littermates. Trpa1 mRNA transcripts could be detected with RNAscope in hypothalamic and other brain neurons within the autonomic thermoeffector pathways. In conclusion, slow- and fast-releasing H₂S donors induce hypothermia through hypometabolism and cutaneous vasodilation in mice that is mediated by TRPA1 channels located in the brain, presumably in hypothalamic neurons within the autonomic thermoeffector pathways.

Enhanced Sensory Coding in Mouse Vibrissal and Visual Cortex through TRPA1

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) is a non-selective cation channel, broadly expressed throughout the body. Despite its expression in the mammalian brain, little is known about the contribution of TRPA1 to cortical function. Here, we characterize how TRPA1 affects sensory information processing in two cortical areas in mice: the primary vibrissal (whisker) somatosensory cortex (vS1) and the primary visual cortex (V1). In vS1, local activation of TRPA1 by allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) increases the ongoing activity of neurons and their evoked response to vibrissal stimulation, producing a positive gain modulation. The gain modulation is reversed by TRPA1 inhibitor HC-030031 and is absent in TRPA1 knockout mice. Similarly, in V1, TRPA1 activation increases the gain of direction and orientation selectivity. Linear decoding of V1 population activity confirms faster and more reliable encoding of visual signals under TRPA1 activation. Overall, our findings reveal a physiological role for TRPA1 in enhancing sensory signals in the mammalian cortex.

Role of Oxidative Stress and Ca2+ Signaling in Psychiatric Disorders

Psychiatric disorders are caused by complex and diverse factors, and numerous mechanisms have been proposed for the pathogenesis of these disorders. Accumulating evidence suggests that oxidative stress is one of the general factors involved in the pathogenesis/pathophysiology of major psychiatric disorders, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, and schizophrenia. Indeed, some clinical trials have shown improvement of the symptoms of these disorders by antioxidant supplementation. However, the molecular basis for the relationship between oxidative stress and the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders remains largely unknown. In general, Ca2+ channels play central roles in neuronal functions, including neuronal excitability, neurotransmitter release, synaptic plasticity, and gene regulation, and genes that encode Ca2+ channels have been found to be associated with psychiatric disorders. Notably, a class of Ca2+-permeable transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels is activated by changes in cellular redox status, whereby these TRP channels can link oxidative stress to Ca2+ signals. Given the unique characteristic of redox-sensitive TRP channels, these channels could be a target for delineating the pathogenesis or pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders. In this review, we summarize the outcomes of clinical trials for antioxidant treatment in patients with psychiatric disorders and the current insights into the physiological/pathological significance of redox-sensitive TRP channels in the light of neural functions, including behavioral phenotypes, and discuss the potential role of TRP channels in the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders. Investigation of redox-sensitive TRP channels may lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of psychiatric disorders.

New Insights on the Role of TRP Channels in Calcium Signalling and Immunomodulation: Review of Pathways and Implications for Clinical Practice

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body and is central to many physiological processes, including immune system activation and maintenance. Studies continue to reveal the intricacies of calcium signalling within the immune system. Perhaps the most well-understood mechanism of calcium influx into cells is store-operated calcium entry (SOCE), which occurs via calcium release-activated channels (CRACs). SOCE is central to the activation of immune system cells; however, more recent studies have demonstrated the crucial role of other calcium channels, including transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. In this review, we describe the expression and function of TRP channels within the immune system and outline associations with murine models of disease and human conditions. Therefore, highlighting the importance of TRP channels in disease and reviewing potential. The TRP channel family is significant, and its members have a continually growing number of cellular processes. Within the immune system, TRP channels are involved in a diverse range of functions including T and B cell receptor signalling and activation, antigen presentation by dendritic cells, neutrophil and macrophage bactericidal activity, and mast cell degranulation. Not surprisingly, these channels have been linked to many pathological conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, chronic fatigue syndrome and myalgic encephalomyelitis, atherosclerosis, hypertension and atopy.

TRPA1 as a therapeutic target for nociceptive pain

Introduction

Chronic pain affects approximatively 30–50% of the population globally. Pathologies such as migraine, diabetic neuropathy, nerve injury and treatment with chemotherapeutic agents, can induce chronic pain. Members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, including the TRP ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), have a major role in pain.

Areas covered

We focus on TRPA1 as a therapeutic target for pain relief. The structure, localization, and activation of the channel and its implication in different pathways to signal pain are described. This paper underlines the role of pharmacological interventions on TRPA1 to reduce pain in numerous pain conditions. We conducted a literature search in PubMed up to and including July 2020.

Expert opinion

Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the sensitization of central and peripheral nociceptive pathways is limited. Preclinical evidence indicates that, in murine models of pain diseases, numerous mechanisms converge on the pathway that encompasses oxidative stress and Schwann cell TRPA1 to sustain chronic pain. Programs to identify and develop treatments to attenuate TRPA1-mediated chronic pain have emerged from this knowledge. Antagonists explored as a novel class of analgesics have a new and promising target in the TRPA1 expressed by peripheral glial cells.

Deubiquitinating Enzyme: A Potential Secondary Checkpoint of Cancer Immunity

The efficacy of cancer immunotherapy depends on the fine interplay between tumoral immune checkpoints and host immune system. However, the up-to-date clinical performance of checkpoint blockers in cancer therapy revealed that higher-level regulation should be further investigated for better therapeutic outcomes. It is becoming increasingly evident that the expression of immune checkpoints is largely associated to the immunotherapeutic response and consequent prognosis. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) with their role of cleaving ubiquitin from proteins and other molecules, thus reversing ubiquitination-mediated protein degradation, modulate multiple cellular processes, including, but not limited to, transcriptional regulation, cell cycle progression, tissue development, and antiviral response. Accumulating evidence indicates that DUBs also have the critical influence on anticancer immunity, simply by stabilizing pivotal checkpoints or key regulators of T-cell functions. Therefore, this review summarizes the current knowledge about DUBs, highlights the secondary checkpoint-like role of DUBs in cancer immunity, in particular their direct effects on the stability control of pivotal checkpoints and key regulators of T-cell functions, and suggests the therapeutic potential of DUBs-based strategy in targeted immunotherapy for cancer.

O2-Dependent Protein Internalization Underlies Astrocytic Sensing of Acute Hypoxia by Restricting Multimodal TRPA1 Channel Responses

Hypoxia sensors are essential for regulating local oxygen (O₂) homeostasis within the body. This is especially pertinent within the CNS, which is particularly vulnerable to O₂ deprivation due to high energetic demand. Here, we reveal hypoxia-monitoring function exerted by astrocytes through an O₂-regulated protein trafficking mechanism within the CNS. Strikingly, cultured mouse astrocytes isolated from the parafacial respiratory group (pFRG) and retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) region are capable of rapidly responding to moderate hypoxia via the sensor cation channel transient receptor potential (TRP) A1 but, unlike multimodal sensory neurons, are inert to hyperoxia and other TRPA1 activators (carbon dioxide, electrophiles, and oxidants) in normoxia. Mechanistically, O₂ suppresses TRPA1 channel activity by protein internalization via O₂-dependent proline hydroxylation and subsequent ubiquitination by an E3 ubiquitin ligase, NEDD4-1 (neural precursor cell-expressed developmentally down-regulated protein 4). Hypoxia inhibits this process and instantly accumulates TRPA1 proteins at the plasma membrane, inducing TRPA1-mediated Ca²⁺ influx that triggers ATP release from pFRG/RTN astrocytes, potentiating respiratory center activity. Furthermore, astrocyte-specific Trpa1 disruption in a mouse brainstem-spinal cord preparation impedes the amplitude augmentation of the central autonomic respiratory output during hypoxia. Thus, reversible coupling of the TRPA1 channels with O₂-dependent protein translocation allows astrocytes to act as acute hypoxia sensors in the medullary respiratory center.

In vitro exposure to Hymenoptera venom and constituents activates discrete ionotropic pathways in mast cells

Calcium entry is central to the functional processes in mast cells and basophils that contribute to the induction and maintenance of inflammatory responses. Mast cells and basophils express an array of calcium channels, which mediate responses to diverse stimuli triggered by small bioactive molecules, physicochemical stimuli and immunological inputs including antigens and direct immune cell interactions. These cells are also highly responsive to certain venoms (such as Hymenoptera envenomations), which cause histamine secretion, cytokine release and an array of pro-inflammatory functional responses. There are gaps in our understanding of the coupling of venom exposure to specific signaling pathways such as activation of calcium channels. In the present study, we performed a current survey of a model mast cell line selected for its pleiotropic responsiveness to multiple pro-inflammatory inputs. As a heterogenous stimulus, Hymenoptera venom activates multiple classes of conductance at the population level but tend to lead to the measurement of only one type of conductance per cell, despite the cell co-expressing multiple channel types. The data show that I_CRAC, I_ARC, and TRPV-like currents are present in the model mast cell populations and respond to venom exposure. We further assessed individual venom components, specifically secretagogues and arachidonic acid, and identified the conductances associated with these stimuli in mast cells. Single-cell calcium assays and immunofluorescence analysis show that there is heterogeneity of channel expression across the cell population, but this heterogeneity does not explain the apparent selectivity for specific channels in response to exposure to venom as a composite stimulus.

Complex Regulatory Role of the TRPA1 Receptor in Acute and Chronic Airway Inflammation Mouse Models

The Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) cation channel expressed on capsaicin-sensitive afferents, immune and endothelial cells is activated by inflammatory mediators and exogenous irritants, e.g., endotoxins, nicotine, crotonaldehyde and acrolein. We investigated its involvement in acute and chronic pulmonary inflammation using Trpa1 gene-deleted (Trpa1^-/-) mice. Acute pneumonitis was evoked by intranasal Escherichia coli endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide: LPS) administration, chronic bronchitis by daily cigarette smoke exposure (CSE) for 4 months. Frequency, peak inspiratory/expiratory flows, minute ventilation determined by unrestrained whole-body plethysmography were significantly greater, while tidal volume, inspiratory/expiratory/relaxation times were smaller in Trpa1^-/- mice. LPS-induced bronchial hyperreactivity, myeloperoxidase activity, frequency-decrease were significantly greater in Trpa1^-/- mice. CSE significantly decreased tidal volume, minute ventilation, peak inspiratory/expiratory flows in wildtypes, but not in Trpa1^-/- mice. CSE remarkably increased the mean linear intercept (histopathology), as an emphysema indicator after 2 months in wildtypes, but only after 4 months in Trpa1^-/- mice. Semiquantitative histopathological scores were not different between strains in either models. TRPA1 has a complex role in basal airway function regulation and inflammatory mechanisms. It protects against LPS-induced acute pneumonitis and hyperresponsiveness, but is required for CSE-evoked emphysema and respiratory deterioration. Further research is needed to determine TRPA1 as a potential pharmacological target in the lung.

A gene expression-based immune signature for lung adenocarcinoma prognosis

BACKGROUND

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) has become the most frequent histologic type of lung cancer in the past several decades. Recent successes with immune checkpoint blockade therapy have demonstrated that the manipulation of the immune system is a very potent treatment for LUAD. This study aims to explore the role of immune-related genes in the development of LUAD and establish a signature that can predict overall survival for LUAD patients.

METHODS

To identify the differential expression genes (DEGs) between normal and tumor tissues, we developed an analysis strategy to combine an independent-sample design and a paired-sample design using RNA-seq transcriptomic profiling data of The Cancer Genome Atlas LUAD samples. Further, we selected prognostic markers from DEGs and evaluated their prognostic value in a prediction model.

RESULTS

We identified and validated PD1, PDL1 and CTLA4 genes as prognostic markers, which are well-known immune checkpoints, and revealed two new potential prognostic immune checkpoints for LUAD, HHLA2 (logFC = 2.55, FDR = 1.89 × 10^-6) and VTCN1 (logFC = -2.86, FDR = 1.72 × 10^-11). Furthermore, we identified an 18-gene LUAD prognostic biomarker panel and observed that the classified high-risk group presented a significantly shorter overall survival time (HR = 3.57, p value = 4.07 × 10^-10). The prediction model was validated in five independent high-throughput gene expression datasets.

CONCLUSIONS

The identified DEG features may serve as potential biomarkers for prognosis prediction of LUAD patients and immunotherapy. Based on that assumption, we identified a gene expression-based immune signature for lung adenocarcinoma prognosis.

Mammalian Transient Receptor Potential TRPA1 Channels: From Structure to Disease

The transient receptor potential ankyrin (TRPA) channels are Ca²⁺-permeable nonselective cation channels remarkably conserved through the animal kingdom. Mammals have only one member, TRPA1, which is widely expressed in sensory neurons and in non-neuronal cells (such as epithelial cells and hair cells). TRPA1 owes its name to the presence of 14 ankyrin repeats located in the NH₂ terminus of the channel, an unusual structural feature that may be relevant to its interactions with intracellular components. TRPA1 is primarily involved in the detection of an extremely wide variety of exogenous stimuli that may produce cellular damage. This includes a plethora of electrophilic compounds that interact with nucleophilic amino acid residues in the channel and many other chemically unrelated compounds whose only common feature seems to be their ability to partition in the plasma membrane. TRPA1 has been reported to be activated by cold, heat, and mechanical stimuli, and its function is modulated by multiple factors, including Ca²⁺, trace metals, pH, and reactive oxygen, nitrogen, and carbonyl species. TRPA1 is involved in acute and chronic pain as well as inflammation, plays key roles in the pathophysiology of nearly all organ systems, and is an attractive target for the treatment of related diseases. Here we review the current knowledge about the mammalian TRPA1 channel, linking its unique structure, widely tuned sensory properties, and complex regulation to its roles in multiple pathophysiological conditions.

Functional Role of Transient Receptor Potential Channels in Immune Cells and Epithelia

Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels are widely expressed in several tissues throughout the mammalian organism. Originally, TRP channel physiology was focusing on its fundamental meaning in sensory neuronal function. Today, it is known that activation of several TRP ion channels in peptidergic neurons does not only result in neuropeptide release and consecutive neurogenic inflammation. Growing evidence demonstrates functional extra-neuronal TRP channel expression in immune and epithelial cells with important implications for mucosal immunology. TRP channels maintain intracellular calcium homeostasis to regulate various functions in the respective cells such as nociception, production and release of inflammatory mediators, phagocytosis, and cell migration. In this review, we provide an overview about TRP-mediated effects in immune and epithelial cells with an emphasis on mucosal immunology of the gut. Crosstalk between neurons, epithelial cells, and immune cells induced by activation of TRP channels orchestrates the immunologic response. Understanding of its molecular mechanisms paves the way to novel clinical approaches for the treatment of various inflammatory disorders including IBD.

ATP promotes the fast migration of dendritic cells through the activity of pannexin 1 channels and P2X7 receptors

Upon its release from injured cells, such as infected, transformed, inflamed, or necrotic cells, extracellular adenosine-5'-triphosphate (ATP) acts as a danger signal that recruits phagocytes, such as neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells (DCs), to the site of injury. The sensing of extracellular ATP occurs through purinergic (P2) receptors. We investigated the cellular mechanisms linking purinergic signaling to DC motility. We found that ATP stimulated fast DC motility through an autocrine signaling loop, which was initiated by the activation of P2X₇ receptors and further amplified by pannexin 1 (Panx1) channels. Upon stimulation of the P2X₇ receptor by ATP, Panx1 contributed to fast DC motility by increasing the permeability of the plasma membrane, which resulted in supplementary ATP release. In the absence of Panx1, DCs failed to increase their speed of migration in response to ATP, despite exhibiting a normal P2X₇ receptor-mediated Ca²⁺ response. In addition to DC migration, Panx1 channel- and P2X₇ receptor-dependent signaling was further required to stimulate the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton. In vivo, functional Panx1 channels were required for the homing of DCs to lymph nodes, although they were dispensable for DC maturation. These data suggest that P2X₇ receptors and Panx1 channels are crucial players in the regulation of DC migration to endogenous danger signals.

Notch1-promoted TRPA1 expression in erythroleukemic cells suppresses erythroid but enhances megakaryocyte differentiation

The Notch1 pathway plays important roles in modulating erythroid and megakaryocyte differentiation. To screen the Notch1-related genes that regulate differentiation fate of K562 and HEL cells, the expression of transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) was induced by Notch1 receptor intracellular domain (N1IC), the activated form of Notch1 receptor. N1IC and v-ets erythroblastosis virus E26 oncogene homolog 1 (Ets-1) bound to TRPA1 promoter region to regulate transcription in K562 cells. Transactivation of TRPA1 promoter by N1IC depended on the methylation status of TRPA1 promoter. N1IC and Ets-1 suppressed the DNA methyltransferase 3B (DNMT3B) level in K562 cells. Inhibition of TRPA1 expression after Notch1 knockdown could be attenuated by nanaomycin A, an inhibitor of DNMT3B, in K562 and HEL cells. Functionally, hemin-induced erythroid differentiation could be suppressed by TRPA1, and the reduction of erythroid differentiation of both cells by N1IC and Ets-1 occurred via TRPA1. However, PMA-induced megakaryocyte differentiation could be enhanced by TRPA1, and the surface markers of megakaryocytes could be elevated by nanaomycin A. Megakaryocyte differentiation could be reduced by Notch1 or Ets-1 knockdown and relieved by TRPA1 overexpression. The results suggest that Notch1 and TRPA1 might be critical modulators that control the fate of erythroid and megakaryocyte differentiation.

Carvacrol reduces irinotecan-induced intestinal mucositis through inhibition of inflammation and oxidative damage via TRPA1 receptor activation

Intestinal mucositis is an inflammatory process occurring in the intestinal mucosa and is a common side effect of irinotecan hydrochloride (CPT-11) based anticancer regimens. The transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily A, member 1 (TRPA1) receptor is highly expressed in the intestinal mucosa and has the ability to identify cell damage signaling indicates its possible association with intestinal mucositis. Carvacrol is an agonist of the TRPA1 receptor and has anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, the aim of the present study was to verify the supposed anti-inflammatory and protective action of carvacrol via TRPA1 activation against intestinal mucositis induced by CPT-11 in mice. Briefly, mice were treated with either DMSO 2% or CPT-11 (75 mg/kg, per 4 days, i.p.) or the carvacrol (25, 75 or 150 mg/kg, per 8 days, i.p.) before CPT-11. In other group, the animals were pretreated with HC-030031, a TRPA1 antagonist, 30 min before treatment with carvacrol. On day 7, animal survival and bacteremia were assessed, and following euthanasia, samples of the jejunum were obtained for morphometric analysis and measurement of antioxidant and pro-inflammatory markers. Carvacrol was found to exert an anti-inflammatory action against CPT-11-induced intestinal mucositis through strong interactions with TRPA1 receptors; reduction in the production or release or both of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and KC); and decrease in other indicators of inflammation (MPO, NF-κB, COX-2) and oxidative stress (GSH, MDA, and NOx levels). It also contributed to the restoration of the tissue architecture of the villi and crypts in the small intestine, and improved clinical parameters such as survival, body mass variation, leukogram, and blood bacterial count. Thus, TRPA1 could be a target for future therapeutic approaches in the treatment of intestinal mucositis.

N-terminal tetrapeptide T/SPLH motifs contribute to multimodal activation of human TRPA1 channel

Human transient receptor potential ankyrin channel 1 (TRPA1) is a polymodal sensor implicated in pain, inflammation and itching. An important locus for TRPA1 regulation is the cytoplasmic N-terminal domain, through which various exogenous electrophilic compounds such as allyl-isothiocyanate from mustard oil or cinnamaldehyde from cinnamon activate primary afferent nociceptors. This major region is comprised of a tandem set of 17 ankyrin repeats (AR1-AR17), five of them contain a strictly conserved T/SPLH tetrapeptide motif, a hallmark of an important and evolutionarily conserved contribution to conformational stability. Here, we characterize the functional consequences of putatively stabilizing and destabilizing mutations in these important structural units and identify AR2, AR6, and AR11-13 to be distinctly involved in the allosteric activation of TRPA1 by chemical irritants, cytoplasmic calcium, and membrane voltage. Considering the potential involvement of the T/SP motifs as putative phosphorylation sites, we also show that proline-directed Ser/Thr kinase CDK5 modulates the activity of TRPA1, and that T673 outside the AR-domain is its only possible target. Our data suggest that the most strictly conserved N-terminal ARs define the energetics of the TRPA1 channel gate and contribute to chemical-, calcium- and voltage-dependence.

Recent advances in therapeutic strategies that focus on the regulation of ion channel expression

A number of different ion channel types are involved in cell signaling networks, and homeostatic regulatory mechanisms contribute to the control of ion channel expression. Profiling of global gene expression using microarray technology has recently provided novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the homeostatic and pathological control of ion channel expression. It has demonstrated that the dysregulation of ion channel expression is associated with the pathogenesis of neural, cardiovascular, and immune diseases as well as cancers. In addition to the transcriptional, translational, and post-translational regulation of ion channels, potentially important evidence on the mechanisms controlling ion channel expression has recently been accumulated. The regulation of alternative pre-mRNA splicing is therefore a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of dominant-negative splicing disorders. Epigenetic modification plays a key role in various pathological conditions through the regulation of pluripotency genes. Inhibitors of pre-mRNA splicing and histone deacetyalase/methyltransferase have potential as potent therapeutic drugs for cancers and autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Moreover, membrane-anchoring proteins, lysosomal and proteasomal degradation-related molecules, auxiliary subunits, and pharmacological agents alter the protein folding, membrane trafficking, and post-translational modifications of ion channels, and are linked to expression-defect channelopathies. In this review, we focused on recent insights into the transcriptional, spliceosomal, epigenetic, and proteasomal regulation of ion channel expression: Ca(2+) channels (TRPC/TRPV/TRPM/TRPA/Orai), K(+) channels (voltage-gated, KV/Ca(2+)-activated, KCa/two-pore domain, K2P/inward-rectifier, Kir), and Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channels (TMEM16A/TMEM16B). Furthermore, this review highlights expression of these ion channels in expression-defect channelopathies.

Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels in T cells

The transient receptor potential (TRP) family of ion channels is widely expressed in many cell types and plays various physiological roles. Growing evidence suggests that certain TRP channels are functionally expressed in the immune system. Indeed, an increasing number of reports have demonstrated the functional expression of several TRP channels in innate and adaptive immune cells and have highlighted their critical role in the activation and function of these cells. However, very few reviews have been entirely dedicated to this subject. Here, we will summarize the recent findings with regards to TRP channel expression in T cells and discuss their emerging role as regulators of T cell activation and functions. Moreover, these studies suggest that beyond their pharmaceutical interest in pain management, certain TRP channels may represent potential novel therapeutic targets for various immune-related diseases.

USP18 Sensitivity of Peptide Transporters PEPT1 and PEPT2

USP18 (Ubiquitin-like specific protease 18) is an enzyme cleaving ubiquitin from target proteins. USP18 plays a pivotal role in antiviral and antibacterial immune responses. On the other hand, ubiquitination participates in the regulation of several ion channels and transporters. USP18 sensitivity of transporters has, however, never been reported. The present study thus explored, whether USP18 modifies the activity of the peptide transporters PEPT1 and PEPT2, and whether the peptide transporters are sensitive to the ubiquitin ligase Nedd4-2. To this end, cRNA encoding PEPT1 or PEPT2 was injected into Xenopus laevis oocytes without or with additional injection of cRNA encoding USP18. Electrogenic peptide (glycine-glycine) transport was determined by dual electrode voltage clamp. As a result, in Xenopus laevis oocytes injected with cRNA encoding PEPT1 or PEPT2, but not in oocytes injected with water or with USP18 alone, application of the dipeptide gly-gly (2 mM) was followed by the appearance of an inward current (I_gly-gly). Coexpression of USP18 significantly increased I_gly-gly in both PEPT1 and PEPT2 expressing oocytes. Kinetic analysis revealed that coexpression of USP18 increased maximal I_gly-gly. Conversely, overexpression of the ubiquitin ligase Nedd4-2 decreased I_gly-gly. Coexpression of USP30 similarly increased I_gly-gly in PEPT1 expressing oocytes. In conclusion, USP18 sensitive cellular functions include activity of the peptide transporters PEPT1 and PEPT2.

Involvement of the gut chemosensory system in the regulation of colonic anion secretion

The primary function of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the extraction of nutrients from the diet. Therefore, the GI tract must possess an efficient surveillance system that continuously monitors the luminal content for beneficial or harmful compounds. Recent studies have shown that specialized cells in the intestinal lining can sense changes in this content. These changes directly influence fundamental GI processes such as secretion, motility, and local blood flow via hormonal and/or neuronal pathways. Until recently, most studies examining the control of ion transport in the colon have focused on neural and hormonal regulation. However, study of the regulation of gut function by the gut chemosensory system has become increasingly important, as failure of this system causes dysfunctions in host homeostasis, as well as functional GI disorders. Furthermore, regulation of ion transport in the colon is critical for host defense and for electrolytes balance. This review discusses the role of the gut chemosensory system in epithelial transport, with a particular emphasis on the colon.

Species-specific temperature sensitivity of TRPA1

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) is a polymodal ion channel sensitive to temperature and chemical stimuli. The importance of temperature and aversive chemical detection for survival has driven the evolutionary diversity of TRPA1 sensitivity. This diversity can be observed in the various roles of TRPA1 in different species, where it is proposed to act as a temperature-insensitive chemosensor, a heat transducer, a noxious cold transducer, or a detector of low-intensity heat for prey localization. Exploring the variation of TRPA1 functions among species provides evolutionary insight into molecular mechanisms that fine-tune thermal and chemical sensitivity, and offers an opportunity to address basic principles of temperature gating in ion channels. A decade of research has yielded a number of hypotheses describing physiological roles of TRPA1, modulators of its activity, and biophysical principles of gating. This review surveys the diversity of TRPA1 adaptations across evolutionary taxa and explores possible mechanisms of TRPA1 activation.

Differential regulation of calcium signalling pathways by components of Piper methysticum ('Awa)

Kava is a soporific, anxiolytic and relaxant in widespread ritual and recreational use throughout the Pacific. Traditional uses of kava by indigenous Pacific Island peoples reflect a complex pharmacopeia, centered on GABA-ergic effects of the well-characterized kavalactones. However, peripheral effects of kava suggest active components other than the CNS-targeted kavalactones. We have previously shown that immunocytes exhibit calcium mobilization in response to traditionally prepared kava extracts, and that the kavalactones do not induce these calcium responses. Here, we characterize the complex calcium-mobilizing activity of traditionally prepared and partially HPLC-purified kava extracts, noting induction of both calcium entry and store release pathways. Kava components activate intracellular store depletion of thapsigargin-sensitive and -insensitive stores that are coupled to the calcium release activated (CRAC) current, and cause calcium entry through non-store-operated pathways. Together with the pepper-like potency reported by kava users, these studies lead us to hypothesize that kava extracts contain one or more ligands for the transient receptor potential (TRP) family of ion channels. Indeed, TRP-like conductances are observed in kava-treated cells under patch clamp. Thus TRP-mediated cellular effects may be responsible for some of the reported pharmacology of kava.

Targeting TRP channels for chronic cough: from bench to bedside

Cough is currently the most common reason for patients to visit a primary care physician in the UK, yet it remains an unmet medical need. Current therapies have limited efficacy or have potentially dangerous side effects. Under normal circumstances, cough is a protective reflex to clear the lungs of harmful particles; however, in disease, cough can become excessive, dramatically impacting patients' lives. In many cases, this condition is linked to inflammatory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but can also be refractory to treatment and idiopathic in nature. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop therapies, and targeting the sensory afferent arm of the reflex which initiates the cough reflex may uncover novel therapeutic targets. The cough reflex is initiated following activation of ion channels present on vagal sensory afferents. These ion channels include the transient receptor potential (TRP) family of cation-selective ion channels which act as cellular sensors and respond to changes in the external environment. Many direct activators of TRP channels, including arachidonic acid derivatives, a lowered airway pH, changes in temperature, and altered airway osmolarity are present in the diseased airway where responses to challenge agents which activate airway sensory nerve activity are known to be enhanced. Furthermore, the expression of some TRP channels is increased in airway disease. Together, this makes them promising targets for the treatment of chronic cough. This review will cover the current understanding of the role of the TRP family of ion channels in the activation of airway sensory nerves and cough, focusing on four members, transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) 1, transient receptor potential ankyrin (TRPA) 1, TRPV4, and transient receptor potential melastatin (TRPM) 8 as these represent the channels where most information has been gathered with relevance to the airways. We will describe recent data and highlight the possible therapeutic utility of specific TRP channel antagonists as antitussives in the clinic.

Contemporary Pacific and Western perspectives on `awa (Piper methysticum) toxicology

In 2010, a National Science Foundation project in Hawai`i assembled a collaboration of Pacific indigenous scientists, Hawaiian cultural practitioners and scientists trained in Western pharmacology. The objective of the collaborative project was to study Kava, a culturally significant Pacific beverage, and to address and ultimately transcend, long-standing barriers to communication and collaboration between these groups. Kava is a product of the `awa plant (Piper methysticum) that has been used ceremonially and medicinally throughout the history of Pacific Island cultures, and is now in widespread recreational and nutraceutical use in the US. This project, culminating in 2015, has enriched the participants, led to published work that integrates cultural and Western pharmacologic perspectives and established a paradigm for collaboration. This review paper integrates cultural and Western perspectives on efficacy, toxicity and the future cultural and commercial significance of `awa in the Pacific. Here we present a detailed review of traditional and non-traditional kava usage, medicinal efficacy and potential toxicological concerns. Recent mechanistic data on physiological action and potential pathological reactions are evaluated and interpreted.

Effects of methylglyoxal on human cardiac fibroblast: roles of transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channels

Cardiac fibroblasts contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiac remodeling. Methylglyoxal (MG) is an endogenous carbonyl compound produced under hyperglycemic conditions, which may play a role in the development of pathophysiological conditions including diabetic cardiomyopathy. However, the mechanism by which this occurs and the molecular targets of MG are unclear. We investigated the effects of MG on Ca(2+) signals, its underlying mechanism, and cell cycle progression/cell differentiation in human cardiac fibroblasts. The conventional and quantitative real-time RT-PCR, Western blot, immunocytochemical analysis, and intracellular Ca(2+) concentration [Ca(2+)]i measurement were applied. Cell cycle progression was assessed using the fluorescence activated cell sorting. MG induced Ca(2+) entry concentration dependently. Ruthenium red (RR), a general cation channel blocker, and HC030031, a selective transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) antagonist, inhibited MG-induced Ca(2+) entry. Treatment with aminoguanidine, a MG scavenger, also inhibited it. Allyl isothiocyanate, a selective TRPA1 agonist, increased Ca(2+) entry. The use of small interfering RNA to knock down TRPA1 reduced the MG-induced Ca(2+) entry as well as TRPA1 mRNA expression. The quantitative real-time RT-PCR analysis showed the prominent existence of TRPA1 mRNA. Expression of TRPA1 protein was confirmed by Western blotting and immunocytochemical analyses. MG promoted cell cycle progression from G0/G1 to S/G2/M, which was suppressed by HC030031 or RR. MG also enhanced α-smooth muscle actin expression. The present results suggest that methylglyoxal activates TRPA1 and promotes cell cycle progression and differentiation in human cardiac fibroblasts. MG might participate the development of pathophysiological conditions including diabetic cardiomyopathy via activation of TRPA1.

Trafficking of ThermoTRP Channels

ThermoTRP channels (thermoTRPs) define a subfamily of the transient receptor potential (TRP) channels that are activated by changes in the environmental temperature, from noxious cold to injurious heat. Acting as integrators of several stimuli and signalling pathways, dysfunction of these channels contributes to several pathological states. The surface expression of thermoTRPs is controlled by both, the constitutive and regulated vesicular trafficking. Modulation of receptor surface density during pathological processes is nowadays considered as an interesting therapeutic approach for management of diseases, such as chronic pain, in which an increased trafficking is associated with the pathological state. This review will focus on the recent advances trafficking of the thermoTRP channels, TRPV1, TRPV2, TRPV4, TRPM3, TRPM8 and TRPA1, into/from the plasma membrane. Particularly, regulated membrane insertion of thermoTRPs channels contributes to a fine tuning of final channel activity, and indeed, it has resulted in the development of novel therapeutic approaches with successful clinical results such as disruption of SNARE-dependent exocytosis by botulinum toxin or botulinomimetic peptides.

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels: a clinical perspective

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are important mediators of sensory signals with marked effects on cellular functions and signalling pathways. Indeed, mutations in genes encoding TRP channels are the cause of several inherited diseases in humans (the so-called 'TRP channelopathies') that affect the cardiovascular, renal, skeletal and nervous systems. TRP channels are also promising targets for drug discovery. The initial focus of research was on TRP channels that are expressed on nociceptive neurons. Indeed, a number of potent, small-molecule TRPV1, TRPV3 and TRPA1 antagonists have already entered clinical trials as novel analgesic agents. There has been a recent upsurge in the amount of work that expands TRP channel drug discovery efforts into new disease areas such as asthma, cancer, anxiety, cardiac hypertrophy, as well as obesity and metabolic disorders. A better understanding of TRP channel functions in health and disease should lead to the discovery of first-in-class drugs for these intractable diseases. With this review, we hope to capture the current state of this rapidly expanding and changing field.

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in the airway: role in airway disease

Over the last few decades, there has been an explosion of scientific publications reporting the many and varied roles of transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels in physiological and pathological systems throughout the body. The aim of this review is to summarize the existing literature on the role of TRP channels in the lungs and discuss what is known about their function under normal and diseased conditions. The review will focus mainly on the pathogenesis and symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the role of four members of the TRP family: TRPA1, TRPV1, TRPV4 and TRPM8. We hope that the article will help the reader understand the role of TRP channels in the normal airway and how their function may be changed in the context of respiratory disease.

A global profile of gene promoter methylation in treatment-naïve urothelial cancer

The epigenetic alteration of aberrant hypermethylation in the promoter CpG island of a gene is associated with repression of transcription. In neoplastic cells, aberrant hypermethylation is well described as a mechanism of allele inactivation of particular genes with a tumor suppressor function. To investigate the role of aberrant hypermethylation in the biology and progression of urothelial cancer, we examined 101 urothelial (transitional cell) carcinomas (UC), broadly representative of the disease at presentation, with no prior immunotherapy, chemotherapy or radiotherapy, by Infinium HM27 containing 14,495 genes. The genome-wide signature of aberrant promoter hypermethylation in UC consisted of 729 genes significant by a Wilcoxon test, hypermethylated in a CpG island within 1 kb of the transcriptional start site and unmethylated in normal urothelium from aged individuals. We examined differences in gene methylation between the two main groups of UC: the 75% that are superficial, which often recur but rarely progress, and the 25% with muscle invasion and poor prognosis. We further examined pairwise comparisons of the pathologic subgroups of high or low grade, invasive or non-invasive (pTa), and high grade superficial or low grade superficial UC. Pathways analysis indicated over-representation of genes involved in cell adhesion or metabolism in muscle-invasive UC. Notably, the TET2 epigenetic regulator was one of only two genes more frequently methylated in superficial tumors and the sole gene in low grade UC. Other chromatin remodeling genes, MLL3 and ACTL6B, also showed aberrant hypermethylation. The Infinium methylation value for representative genes was verified by pyrosequencing. An available mRNA expression data set indicated many of the hypermethylated genes of interest to be downregulated in UC. Unsupervised clustering of the most differentially methylated genes distinguished muscle invasive from superficial UC. After filtering, cluster analysis showed a CpG Island Methylator Phenotype (CIMP)-like pattern of widespread methylation in 11 (11%) tumors. Nine of these 11 tumors had hypermethylation of TET2. Our analysis provides a basis for further studies of hypermethylation in the development and progression of UC.

TRPA1

The transient receptor potential ankyrin subtype 1 protein (TRPA1) is a nonselective cation channel permeable to Ca(2+), Na(+), and K(+). TRPA1 is a promiscuous chemical nocisensor that is also involved in noxious cold and mechanical sensation. It is present in a subpopulation of Aδ- and C-fiber nociceptive sensory neurons as well as in other sensory cells including epithelial cells. In primary sensory neurons, Ca(2+) and Na(+) flowing through TRPA1 into the cell cause membrane depolarization, action potential discharge, and neurotransmitter release both at peripheral and central neural projections. In addition to being activated by cysteine and lysine reactive electrophiles and oxidants, TRPA1 is indirectly activated by pro-inflammatory agents via the phospholipase C signaling pathway, in which cytosolic Ca(2+) is an important regulator of channel gating. The finding that non-electrophilic compounds, including menthol and cannabinoids, activate TRPA1 may provide templates for the design of non-tissue damaging activators to fine-tune the activity of TRPA1 and raises the possibility that endogenous ligands sharing binding sites with such non-electrophiles exist and regulate TRPA1 channel activity. TRPA1 is promising as a drug target for novel treatments of pain, itch, and sensory hyperreactivity in visceral organs including the airways, bladder, and gastrointestinal tract.

Clinical significance of down-regulated cylindromatosis gene in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Loss of cylindromatosis gene (CYLD) expression has been observed in various cancers, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). As a deubiquitination enzyme, CYLD regulates the proliferation, development and activation of lymphoid cells. Here we determined the CYLD mRNA expression by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 125 patients with CLL. CYLD was considerably down-regulated in CLL cells compared to normal B cells. Low CYLD expression was associated with unmutated status of the immunoglobulin heavy-chain variable-region (IGHV) gene (p = 0.0018) and CD38 positivity (p = 0.0499). Patients with high CYLD expression showed a trend toward improved overall survival (OS) (10-year OS: CYLD high: 94.74%, CYLD low: 52.71%; p = 0.0534). For patients with mutated IGHV gene, high CYLD was also associated with better OS (10-year OS: CYLD high: 100%, CYLD low: 66.67%; p = 0.0547). In conclusion, low CYLD expression identifies a subgroup of patients with CLL with inferior outcome, indicating the role of CYLD as a tumor suppressor in the pathogenesis of CLL.

A genetic program promotes C. elegans longevity at cold temperatures via a thermosensitive TRP channel

Both poikilotherms and homeotherms live longer at lower body temperatures, highlighting a general role of temperature reduction in lifespan extension. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. One prominent model is that cold temperatures reduce the rate of chemical reactions, thereby slowing the rate of aging. This view suggests that cold-dependent lifespan extension is simply a passive thermodynamic process. Here, we challenge this view in C. elegans by showing that genetic programs actively promote longevity at cold temperatures. We find that TRPA-1, a cold-sensitive TRP channel, detects temperature drop in the environment to extend lifespan. This effect requires cold-induced, TRPA-1-mediated calcium influx and a calcium-sensitive PKC that signals to the transcription factor DAF-16/FOXO. Human TRPA1 can functionally substitute for worm TRPA-1 in promoting longevity. Our results reveal a previously unrecognized function for TRP channels, link calcium signaling to longevity, and, importantly, demonstrate that genetic programs contribute to lifespan extension at cold temperatures.

Transient receptor potentials (TRPs) and anaphylaxis

The transient receptor potential (TRP) superfamily consists of 28 members in mammals (27 in human) that act as polymodal sensors and ion channels. They regulate cellular calcium influx, generate depolarization thereby triggering voltage dependent cellular processes, and in turn they are critical in inducing the metabolic activities of cells. It is increasingly apparent that many of the inflammatory mediators released in allergic reactions involve at least two of these ion channels, the 'Vanilloid' TRPV1 and the 'Ankyrin" TRPA1. This review mainly focuses on TRPV1 and TRPA1 and the role they have in the allergic response and how these receptors may be influenced in exercise-induced anaphylaxis. The threshold to react to an allergen for mast cells and lymphocytes can be reduced by activating the melastatin channel TRPM4. This channel is briefly discussed in the context of allergy.

Spices: the savory and beneficial science of pungency

Spicy food does not only provide an important hedonic input in daily life, but has also been anedoctically associated to beneficial effects on our health. In this context, the discovery of chemesthetic trigeminal receptors and their spicy ligands has provided the mechanistic basis and the pharmacological means to investigate this enticing possibility. This review discusses in molecular terms the connection between the neurophysiology of pungent spices and the "systemic" effects associated to their trigeminality. It commences with a cultural and historical overview on the Western fascination for spices, and, after analysing in detail the mechanisms underlying the trigeminality of food, the main dietary players from the transient receptor potential (TRP) family of cation channels are introduced, also discussing the "alien" distribution of taste receptors outside the oro-pharingeal cavity. The modulation of TRPV1 and TRPA1 by spices is next described, discussing how spicy sensations can be turned into hedonic pungency, and analyzing the mechanistic bases for the health benefits that have been associated to the consumption of spices. These include, in addition to a beneficial modulation of gastro-intestinal and cardio-vascular function, slimming, the optimization of skeletal muscle performance, the reduction of chronic inflammation, and the prevention of metabolic syndrome and diabetes. We conclude by reviewing the role of electrophilic spice constituents on cancer prevention in the light of their action on pro-inflammatory and pro-cancerogenic nuclear factors like NFκB, and on their interaction with the electrophile sensor protein Keap1 and the ensuing Nrf2-mediated transcriptional activity. Spicy compounds have a complex polypharmacology, and just like any other bioactive agent, show a balance of beneficial and bad actions. However, at least for moderate consumption, the balance seems definitely in favour of the positive side, suggesting that a spicy diet, a caveman-era technology, could be seriously considered in addition to caloric control and exercise as a measurement to prevent and control many chronic diseases associate to malnutrition from a Western diet.

Apomorphine is a bimodal modulator of TRPA1 channels

Apomorphine is a non-narcotic derivative of morphine, which acts as a dopamine agonist and is clinically used to treat "off-states" in patients suffering from Parkinson's disease. Adverse effects of apomorphine treatment include severe emesis and nausea, and ulceration and pain at the injection site. We wanted to test whether sensory transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are a molecular target for apomorphine. Here, we show that rTRPV1, rTRPV2, rTRPV3, and mTRPV4, as well as hTRPM8, and rTRPM3, which are expressed in dorsal root ganglion neurons, are insensitive toward apomorphine treatment. This also applied to the cellular redox sensor hTRPM2. On the contrary, human TRPA1 could be concentration-dependently modulated by apomorphine. Whereas the addition of apomorphine in the low micromolar range produced an irreversible activation of the channel, application of higher concentrations caused a reversible voltage-dependent inhibition of heterologously expressed TRPA1 channels, resulting from a reduction of single-channel open times. In addition, we provide evidence that apomorphine also acts on endogenous TRPA1 in cultured dorsal root ganglion neurons from rats and in the enterochromaffin model cell line QGP-1, from which serotonin is released upon activation of TRPA1. Our study shows that human TRPA1 is a target for apomorphine, suggesting that an activation of TRPA1 might contribute to adverse side effects such as nausea and painful injections, which can occur during treatment with apomorphine.

TRPA1: A gatekeeper for inflammation

Tissue damage evokes an inflammatory response that promotes the removal of harmful stimuli, tissue repair, and protective behaviors to prevent further damage and encourage healing. However, inflammation may outlive its usefulness and become chronic. Chronic inflammation can lead to a host of diseases, including asthma, itch, rheumatoid arthritis, and colitis. Primary afferent sensory neurons that innervate target organs release inflammatory neuropeptides in the local area of tissue damage to promote vascular leakage, the recruitment of immune cells, and hypersensitivity to mechanical and thermal stimuli. TRPA1 channels are required for neuronal excitation, the release of inflammatory neuropeptides, and subsequent pain hypersensitivity. TRPA1 is also activated by the release of inflammatory agents from nonneuronal cells in the area of tissue injury or disease. This dual function of TRPA1 as a detector and instigator of inflammatory agents makes TRPA1 a gatekeeper of chronic inflammatory disorders of the skin, airways, and gastrointestinal tract.

TRP channels and analgesia

Since cloning and characterizing the first nociceptive ion channel Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), other TRP channels involved in nociception have been cloned and characterized, which include TRP Vanilloid 2 (TRPV2), TRP Vanilloid 3 (TRPV3), TRP Vanilloid 4 (TRPV4), TRP Ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) and TRP Melastatin 8 (TRPM8), more recently TRP Canonical 1, 5, 6 (TRPC1, 5, 6), TRP Melastatin 2 (TRPM2) and TRP Melastatin 3 (TRPM3). These channels are predominantly expressed in C and Aδ nociceptors and transmit noxious thermal, mechanical and chemical sensitivities. TRP channels are modulated by pro-inflammatory mediators, neuropeptides and cytokines. Significant advances have been made targeting these receptors either by antagonists or agonists to treat painful conditions. In this review, we will discuss TRP channels as targets for next generation analgesics and the side effects that may ensue as a result of blocking/activating these receptors, because they are also involved in physiological functions such as release of vasoactive neuropeptides and regulation of vascular tone, maintenance of the body temperature, gastrointestinal motility, urinary bladder control, etc.

Regulation of NF-κB by deubiquitinases

The nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway is a critical regulator of innate and adaptive immunity. Noncanonical K63-linked polyubiquitination plays a key regulatory role in NF-κB signaling pathways by functioning as a scaffold to recruit kinase complexes containing ubiquitin-binding domains. Ubiquitination is balanced by deubiquitinases that cleave polyubiquitin chains and oppose the function of E3 ubiquitin ligases. Deubiquitinases therefore play an important role in the termination of NF-κB signaling and the resolution of inflammation. In this review, we focus on NF-κB regulation by deubiquitinases with an emphasis on A20 and CYLD. Deubiquitinases and the ubiquitin/proteasome components that regulate NF-κB may serve as novel therapeutic targets for inflammatory diseases and cancer.