Transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily A member 1 (TRPA1) (TRPA1)

Transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily A member 1 (TRPA1), widely recognized as the 'chemical irritant receptor,' is a non-selective cation channel primarily expressed in the plasma membrane of nociceptive sensory neurons (UniProt O75762). It functions as a versatile sensor for a broad range of exogenous chemical irritants—such as those found in mustard oil, garlic, and cigarette smoke—as well as endogenous products of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation (PubMed PMID: 24336214). Upon activation, TRPA1 allows the influx of calcium and sodium ions, triggering neuronal depolarization and the subsequent sensation of pain, itch, or respiratory irritation. In clinical contexts, TRPA1 is heavily implicated in the pathophysiology of chronic airway diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), where it mediates airway hyperresponsiveness and neurogenic inflammation (Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, doi:10.1038/nrd4285). Consequently, TRPA1 has emerged as a high-priority therapeutic target, with several pharmaceutical companies developing small-molecule antagonists to treat neuropathic pain, inflammatory disorders, and refractory cough.

Other names

ANKTM1Irritant receptorWasabi receptorAnkyrin-like with transmembrane domains protein 1Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1

TRPA1 antagonists inhibit the channel to reduce the influx of cation-mediated depolarization in sensory neurons, thereby alleviating pain and inflammation; agonists are used as research tools or in sensory testing to activate the channel.