The Role of TRP Channels In Mechanosensitive Somatosensory Neurons

Abstract

The somatosensory system underlies our ability to detect touch and pain. To understand the molecular and cellular processes governing somatosensation, it is necessary to identify receptors that detect physical stimuli, such as temperature and touch, and determine how they transduce environmental signals into action potentials. TRP channels that mediate sensitivity to heat and cold have been identified from somatosensory neurons. But the role of TRP channels in mammalian mechanosensitive sensory neurons remains controversial. We used a variety of in vitro assays to characterize responses of distinct subsets of mechanosensitive sensory neurons. Using calcium imaging in combination with radial stretch, osmotic stimuli or natural products that target mechanosensitive neurons, we assessed mechanosensitivity of nociceptors and low-threshold mechanoreceptors. The role of various TRP channels in these responses will be discussed.