TRP channels in female reproductive organs and placenta

Abstract

TRP channel proteins are widely expressed in female reproductive organs. Based on studies detecting TRP transcripts and proteins in different parts of the female reproductive organs and placenta they are supposed to be involved in the transport of the oocyte or the blastocyte through the oviduct, implantation of the blastocyte, development of the placenta and transport processes across the feto-maternal barrier. Furthermore uterus contractility and physiological processes during labour and in mammary glands seem to be dependant on TRP channel expression. © 2011 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.