The transient receptor potential superfamily of ion channels

The transient receptor potential (TRP) superfamily of proteins is cation-selective ion channels with six predicted transmembrane segments and intracellularly localized amino and carboxyl termini. Members of the TRP superfamily are identified on the basis of amino acid sequence and structural similarity and are classified into TRPC, TRPV, TRPM, TRPP, TRPN, and TRPML subfamilies. TRP channels are widespread and have diverse functions, ranging from thermal, tactile, taste, osmolar, and fluid flow sensing to transepithelial Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ transport. Mutations of TRP proteins produce many renal diseases, including Mg²⁺ wasting, hypocalcemia, and polycystic kidney diseases. This review focuses on recent advances in the understanding of their functions.