Polycystin 2-like 1 (PKD2L1) (PKD2L1)

Polycystin 2-like 1 (PKD2L1), also known as TRPP3, is a calcium-permeable non-selective cation channel belonging to the polycystin family of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels (UniProt Q9P0L9). It plays a critical role in sensory biology, most notably as a primary receptor for sour taste perception when complexed with PKD1L3 in taste bud cells (Huang et al., Nature, 2006). Beyond the tongue, PKD2L1 is highly expressed in cerebrospinal fluid-contacting neurons (CSF-cNs) surrounding the central canal of the spinal cord, where it functions as a chemo-sensor to monitor the pH and chemical composition of the CSF (Orts-Del'Immagine et al., 2012). In these neurons, the channel helps regulate homeostatic responses to acidosis or alkalosis by modulating neuronal excitability. While its direct role in human disease is still being elucidated, it is implicated in taste disorders and has been studied for its potential involvement in polycystic kidney disease and epilepsy (NCBI Gene ID: 9035). Pharmacologically, PKD2L1 is sensitive to non-specific ion channel blockers like amiloride and ruthenium red, making it a target of interest for modulating sensory perception and certain neurological pathways (PubChem CID: 5460341).

Other names

TRPP3Polycystin-LPCLPKDLTransient receptor potential cation channel subfamily P member 3

Inhibition of cation conductance through the channel pore or modulation of channel gating in response to pH changes.