Transient receptor potential cation channel mucolipin subfamily member 2 (TRPML2)

Transient receptor potential cation channel mucolipin subfamily member 2 (TRPML2) is a member of the mucolipin family of ion channels, primarily localized to the membranes of late endosomes and lysosomes [UniProt, Q8IZK6]. It functions as a non-selective cation channel that facilitates the release of calcium and other cations from acidic organelles into the cytosol, a process essential for endolysosomal trafficking and organelle pH maintenance [PubMed, 25361751]. TRPML2 is highly expressed in immune cells, particularly B cells and macrophages, where it plays a critical role in the innate immune response and the secretion of chemokines such as CCL2 [PubMed, 25361751]. In the context of disease, TRPML2 has been identified as a promoter of cell proliferation and migration in various cancers, including glioma and breast cancer, where its upregulation correlates with poor prognosis [PubMed, 28811397]. Furthermore, the channel is involved in the endosomal trafficking and infectivity of several viruses, such as Zika and Influenza A, making it a potential target for novel antiviral strategies [PubMed, 29478804]. While there are currently no FDA-approved drugs targeting TRPML2, experimental small-molecule agonists like ML2-SA1 are being utilized in research to explore its therapeutic potential in lysosomal and inflammatory disorders [PubMed, 24743301].

Other names

Mucolipin-2MCOLN2TRP-ML2

Agonist-mediated activation of endolysosomal cation release