TRPC4

TRPC4 or Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel Subfamily C Member 4 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TRPC4 gene. It is a member of the TRPC (Transient Receptor Potential-Canonical) subfamily of TRP channels.

Function

TRPC4 is a non-selective cation channel that forms a tetramer to create a pore through the plasma membrane. It is activated by G-protein coupled receptors and phospholipase C, and is involved in various physiological processes including vascular smooth muscle contraction, neuronal growth, and the immune response.

Structure

The TRPC4 protein is composed of six transmembrane domains with a pore loop, a cyclic nucleotide-binding domain, and an ankyrin repeat domain. The cyclic nucleotide-binding domain is located at the C-terminus of the protein and is thought to play a role in channel gating. The ankyrin repeat domain is located at the N-terminus and is involved in protein-protein interactions.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the TRPC4 gene have been associated with various diseases including hypertension, asthma, and cancer. In particular, overexpression of TRPC4 has been observed in prostate cancer and is thought to contribute to the progression of the disease.

Research

Research on TRPC4 has focused on its role in various physiological processes and its potential as a therapeutic target for various diseases. For example, inhibitors of TRPC4 are being investigated for their potential to treat hypertension and asthma.

See Also

• TRPC
• G-protein coupled receptors
• Phospholipase C