The large Trp gene family encodes transient receptor potential (TRP) proteins that form
novel cation-selective ion channels. In mammals, 28 Trp channel genes have been
identified. TRP proteins exhibit diverse permeation and gating properties and are involved in
a plethora of physiologic functions with a strong impact on cellular sensing and signaling
pathways. Indeed, mutations in human genes encoding TRP channels, the so-called “TRP
channelopathies,” are responsible for a number of hereditary diseases that affect the …

The mammalian transient receptor potential (TRP) superfamily of ion channels consists of
voltage-independent, non-selective cation channels that are expressed in excitable and non-
excitable cells. The biologic roles of TRP channels are diverse and include vascular tone,
thermosensation, irritant stimuli sensing and flow sensing in the kidney. TRP channels are a
relatively new target in therapeutic drug discovery. During the past few years,
pharmaceutical companies have focused their discovery efforts on developing TRP channel …