The vanilloid receptor family of calcium-permeable channels: molecular integrators of microenvironmental stimuli.
The TRPV subfamily of calcium-permeable channels is widely distributed in sensory and nonsensory cells from nematodes to mammals. These channels can be variably activated by a diverse range of stimuli (osmotic/mechanical stress, noxious chemicals and heat, endogenous mediators) that often converge on the same channel. Evidence is presented that TRPV channels function as novel "molecular integrators" of diverse microenvironmental stimuli.
O'Neil
Roger G
RG
Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
Brown
Rachel C
RC
D000818:Animals; D015220:Calcium Channels / Q000378:metabolism*; D006358:Hot Temperature; D009997:Osmotic Pressure; D011955:Receptors, Drug / Q000378:metabolism*; D013268:Stimulation, Chemical; D013314:Stress, Mechanical
D015220:Calcium Channels; D011955:Receptors, Drug