TRPM2: A multifunctional ion channel for calcium signalling

Abstract

The transient potential receptor melastatin-2 (TRPM2) channel has emerged as an important Ca2+ signalling mechanism in a variety of cells, contributing to cellular functions that include cytokine production, insulin release, cell motility and cell death. Its ability to respond to reactive oxygen species has made TRPM2 a potential therapeutic target for chronic inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, and oxidative stress-related pathologies. TRPM2 is a non-selective, calcium (Ca2+)-permeable cation channel of the melastatin-related transient receptor potential (TRPM) ion channel subfamily. It is activated by intracellular adenosine diphosphate ribose (ADPR) through a diphosphoribose hydrolase domain in its C-terminus and regulated through a variety of factors, including synergistic facilitation by [Ca2+]i, cyclic ADPR, H2O2, NAADP, and negative feedback regulation by AMP and permeating protons (pH). In addition to its role mediating Ca2+ influx into the cells, TRPM2 can also function as a lysosomal Ca2+ release channel, contributing to cell death. The physiological and pathophysiological context of ROS-mediated events makes TRPM2 a promising target for the development of therapeutic tools of inflammatory and degenerative diseases. © 2011 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2011 The Physiological Society.