History of TRP channels and lower urinary tract function and dysfunction

Abstract

The history of TRP channels and bladder started in the 1980-ies with the studies of Maggi and collaborators, who created the basis for using capsaicin and other vanilloids in LUT disorders. This narrative review gives a brief history of bladder TRP channels, from their discovery, distribution, and function in the bladder to the rationale for and current status of the use of agents acting on them in treating LUT dysfunction. The most studied TRP channels related to physiological and pathological bladder conditions are the TRPV1, TRPA1, TRPV4, and TRPM8 channels Their preclinical rationale and potential as targets for effective therapies are attractive. However, even if the results with agents blocking these channels have been promising in experimental models of LUT disorders, this has not resulted in any clinically useful treatments. Thus, the history of TRP channels, their involvement in the physiology and pathophysiology of the LUT, and the search for TRP channel-active drugs for treating LUT disorders are ongoing. Further research will reveal if the promises of these agents will be fulfilled.