TRPV2

TRPV2 or Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel Subfamily V Member 2 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TRPV2 gene. It is a member of the TRP channel family. TRPV2 is a non-selective cation channel that is considered to be involved in the regulation of systemic osmotic pressure.

Structure

TRPV2 is a large protein, with a molecular weight of approximately 100 kDa. It is composed of six transmembrane domains, with a pore loop between the fifth and sixth domains. The N- and C-termini of the protein are located in the cytoplasm. The N-terminus contains ankyrin repeat domains, which are thought to be involved in protein-protein interactions.

Function

TRPV2 is a non-selective cation channel that is activated by high temperatures (>52°C), and is thought to contribute to the sensation of heat and pain. It is also activated by mechanical and chemical stimuli, including cell swelling, low pH, and certain lipids. TRPV2 is expressed in a variety of tissues, including the nervous system, immune system, and cardiovascular system. In the nervous system, it is found in sensory neurons, where it is thought to play a role in nociception. In the immune system, it is found in macrophages, where it is thought to play a role in phagocytosis. In the cardiovascular system, it is found in the heart, where it is thought to play a role in the regulation of systemic osmotic pressure.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the TRPV2 gene have been associated with a variety of diseases, including neuropathic pain, inflammatory diseases, and cancer. In cancer, overexpression of TRPV2 has been observed in a variety of tumor types, including breast, prostate, and bladder cancer. It is thought that TRPV2 may promote tumor growth and metastasis by enhancing cell proliferation and migration.

Research

Research is ongoing to develop drugs that can modulate the activity of TRPV2 for the treatment of diseases such as neuropathic pain, inflammatory diseases, and cancer. Several small molecule inhibitors of TRPV2 have been identified, and some of these are currently being tested in clinical trials.

See also

• TRP channel
• Nociception
• Phagocytosis