The role of transient receptor potential channels in respiratory symptoms and pathophysiology

The Transient Receptor Potential channels constitute a superfamily of ion channels that is unmatched in its functional diversity. Recent research employing pharmacological and genetic methods has demonstrated that these channels are widely distributed within the respiratory tract, where they may mechanistically link noxious irritant exposures and inflammation to heightened airway reflex sensitivity, pathological remodeling and airflow limitation. Herein, we summarize the state of the art in this rapidly expanding area, emphasizing the known roles of Transient Receptor Potential channels in airway sensory nerves in addition to highlighting their roles in non-excitable cells.